Discover Houat & Hoëdic
Houat and Hoëdic
Treading Houat's soil is a (very) beautiful escape, an inspiring breath of exoticism. From the port of Saint-Gildas, mingle with the islanders hauling their carts towards the village. Beyond the little white houses, escape into unspoilt nature. Precious moments will enchant your spirit!
What do Houat and Hoëdic mean?
In Breton, Houat and Hoëdic mean "duck" and "duckling". The birds are more reminiscent of noble terns or curlews than barnyard ducks.
A piece of paradise...Happiness is simple
Houat, 5 km long, is approached via a bustling harbor where brightly-hulled boats dock at the groyne. Here, fishermen take pride of place. There's no showboating or fuss. The island reveals itself as it is, authentic and discreet. Traps pile up on the quays. Crustaceans, sea bass and conger eels arrive still wriggling ashore.
A steep incline leads to the village. Slowly, as if not to disturb anything, we enter the narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses with blue shutters. The slate roofs are cemented to resist the wind. This breath of air constantly ventilates this piece of land, keeping the clouds at bay. So much for sunshine!
A magic trick!
Beyond the village, rediscover your Robinson soul! No roads, no walls, the colorful moor is criss-crossed by sandy paths. A footpath leads around the island. The cliffs of the southwest coast are carved by heavenly coves. To the west, the strange rock of Beg er Vachif supports a neglected battery.
The northern cliffs are softened by more lush vegetation. The jewel of the east coast, Treac'h er Goured beach surrounds the Tal er Hah headland with fine sand. The crystal-clear waters are very attractive, but, let's face it, often very cool. In the dunes, sea lilies and oyats mark your steps. Don't step on them!
Sisters in heart and mind
Houat and its little sister, Hoëdic, weren't always islands. In Mesolithic times, they were linked to the Quiberon peninsula. Today, 15 km separate them from the mainland. Coveted by the English, the island was occupied in the 17th and 18th centuries: the remains of a fort can still be seen. In 1822, the island adopted an original organization, formalized by the "Hoëdic Charter": it became a theocracy, governed by the rector. A perceptible form of independence that doesn't prevent sharing!