The GR34 in practice and how to get there

The GR®34, also known as the "sentier des douaniers", is certainly the most famous of the coastal footpaths.
In Côtes d'Armor, the GR® 34 stretches over more than 400 km of paths reserved exclusively for pedestrians.
From coves to cliffs, seaside resorts to natural sites, bays to estuaries, you have a front-row seat to discover the majesty and diversity of the coastline of the Côtes d'Armor.

Sommaire

To reach the GR 34

Heading towards Saint-Quay-Portrieux, take the big blue staircase opposite the Penthièvre jetty and the Binic lighthouse.

In the other direction, from the port of Binic towards Saint-Brieuc, walk along the Plage de la Banche and through the Parc des Bernains.

Arriving from Paimpol/Saint-Quay-Portrieux, cross the Port-es-leu in the direction of the port, passing over the town's beaches.

Markings on the GR

The GR®34, like all the other Grande Randonnée routes in France, is signposted with two parallel horizontal rectangles in white and red. When these two rectangles are topped by an arrow to the left or right, this indicates a change of direction. When the two rectangles form a cross, you are going in the wrong direction and should not take this path.

If you come across an anomaly during your hike (a signposting error, faulty signposting or a need for safety measures), report it on Suricate, the nature sports reporting tool.

Equipment to bring


Going hiking, whether for a day or several days, requires a minimum amount of equipment. You'll need to find the right balance so that you only pack the equipment you really need. Too much weight can cause back and shoulder pain, as well as leg pain, as your body is not used to carrying so many kilos.

Here's a non-exhaustive list of what you need to take with you:

  • A rucksack specifically designed for hiking. It needs to be strong, practical and light.
  • Hiking boots. This is probably the most important item for a walker. High or medium, depending on your preference, but they need to be sturdy and provide good ankle support.
  • Clothes for walking, i.e. trousers and/or shorts, one or two T-shirts, a fleece and underwear. Don't forget waterproof rainwear, and possibly a down jacket for chilly evenings.
  • Walking sticks. Even if you don't need them to walk, they are an important aid for any hiker. They take the strain off your lower limbs, particularly on ascents and descents.

Your bivouac equipment if you choose to sleep outdoors.

  • Tent, stove, duvet, mattress, and possibly a pillow and silk sheet. You'll probably need to carry some food supplies too.
  • A first-aid kit. You can also take a toiletry kit containing the bare essentials.
  • A Brittany hiking guide or map, so you don't run the risk of getting lost along the way.

The Rando Accueil or Etape Rando Bretagne labels

"Rando Accueil" is a national label, while "Etape Rando Bretagne" is a regional certification.

Accredited accommodation is located less than 2 km from the GR® 34 and offers overnight accommodation and appropriate services: laundry facilities, luggage transport on request, catering facilities, tourist and walking literature, etc.

Stopover gîtes, hotels, campsites, bed and breakfasts...
Click here to find overnight accommodation less than 2 km from the GR®34.

Suricate application
Observe - Connect - Report: 3 simple steps to report a problem on the hiking trails and become a sentinel for nature sports.