The “Golfe du Morbihan”/
the Gulf of Morbihan

“Mor Bihan” is Breton for English “Little Sea” and for Welsh “Môr Bychan”! It is in contrast with “Mor Bras” (Big Sea) - the Ocean. “Mor Bihan” is somewhat an affectionate nickname we use to celebrate this glittering jewel of nature so dear to our hearts.

This is one of the most captivating bays in the world. This inland sea is about 12 miles long and 9 miles wide. Mor Bihan‘s waters aren’t very deep except in some channels near Port Navalo at the very end of the Rhuys peninsula where the waters reach 114 ft.

From the Bay of Quiberon (Breton “Kiberen”) pleasure boats can sail into the Gulf through a narrow strait between Locmariaquer and Port Navalo. Tidal currents can be impressively powerful here, up to 11 knots !

Every twelve hours through this narrow passage, the waters of the Atlantic make their way through to meet those of the Mor Bihan after which they find their way to a labyrinth of coves, small headlands, rocks and multitude of islands.

The Gulf is a fishermen and oyster farmer’s delight. It is also a wonderful place to sail. Many pleasure sailors bring their own boats whilst others take advantage of the numerous commercial boat trips.

Owing to the fact that the sea penetrates into the mainland, the Rhuys Peninsula enjoys a particularly mild climate. The locals will often tell you about the ‘micro climate’ that prevails in the area. As a result, migratory birds are enticed to stay here. The fine weather status of the region also allows specific vegetation to grow. Mediterranean plants like mimosa are found, along with magnolia trees, lavender, camellias, hydrangeas and in some places even palm trees !