Ile TristanIle Tristan
©Ile Tristan|OT pays de Douarnenez
Tristan island

Tristan Island

As you walk along the coastal path, you can’t help being drawn to this tree-topped island that sits on the water facing Douarnenez. The good news is that for 2 or 3 days a month when this secret island is open to visitors! When the tides are low enough, a path is revealed that beckons you to walk across the seabed and explore.

Book your guided tour with a walking tour (in French only)

Chargement en cours…

Visit without a guide

The moment you step foot on the island, you feel far away, transported by this unspoilt natural setting. You’ll find a garden hidden behind large walls, beautiful shaded walkways, ancient fortifications and exceptional panoramic views across the whole bay. You’ll be overwhelmed by a desire to simply sit and gaze at your surroundings… but all too soon, the tide begins to rise again and you need to get back to the mainland. You’ll come back, that’s for sure!

Access is based on a crossing schedule (see the calendar for tide times).

Guided tour (in french only)

Seven hectares of unspoiled nature and history to discover. A guided tour on foot at low tide is a must to understand the mysteries of this Conservatoire du Littoral site. What lies behind the buildings? An undiscovered pirate treasure, an intriguing artistic social life, surprising nature at the end of the world, the shadow of Tristan and Iseult? Don’t wait any longer, take a guided tour at low tide and explore the site and its history. You’ll be surprised!

Practical information

  • Access depends on tide conditions.
  • Dogs are not allowed on Tristan Island.
  • No smoking.
  • Closed-toe shoes (sneakers, hiking boots) with non-slip soles are required.
  • Picnics are allowed on the docks during open house events.
  • No walking sticks.

The path may be difficult for people with walking difficulties.

  • Agenda
    Access according to a fixed schedule
    Guided tours by prior arrangement
    Self-guided tours without prior arrangementInformation from the Pays de Douarnenez Tourist Office: 02 98 92 13 35

    Free access :

    FOR WALKERS, PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE TIMES ARE GIVEN FOR INFORMATION ONLY.
    Crossing on foot is your responsibility.
    Be extremely vigilant to rising water levels to avoid getting stuck on the island. Crossing times may be shortened depending on weather conditions and wind strength. If there is water in the pass, the force of the currents will prevent you from crossing.
    In the event of a problem, the Conservatoire du Littoral, owner of Île Tristan, and the town of Douarnenez, manager of the site, decline all responsibility.
    BRING NON-SLIP SHOES

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