A Windy Baie de Morlaix

An increasing NW wind, perhaps reaching force 6 during the afternoon was not an ideal forecast to be exploring the outer coasts so we decided to head into the sheltered waters of the Baie de Morlaix.
Heading out from Terenez on the eastern shore we threaded our way past several distinctive lighthouses and explored the reefs and islands of the Baie. We headed towards the northern end of Ile Callot so when the wind increased, as it was certain to do we would be blown back to the cars.
A detailed chart and knowledge of tidal streams are essential for kayaking in this area, with it being a very rewarding experience. In contrast to other areas of Brittany though I have encountered very few sea kayakers in this area. So next time you are psasing through northern Brittany or heading towards Roscoff to catch the ferry consider stopping off to paddle in the bay, you will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of the kayaking.

Ile Noire Lighthouse, first lit in the 1840's families lived on the rock until 1938.

Ile Louet Lighthouse is certainly photogenic.

Chateau de Taureau, a fort as built here as a consequence of the British fleet sailing up the river to Morlaix, before indulging in some major destruction of the town. The first Fort fell into disrepair and when the famous French military architect, Vauban, visited the fort in April 1689 he recommended some major reconstruction which was finally completed in 1745.

The southern end of Ile Callot

The tide was dropping fast and it was necessary to pull the kayaks over the Passe aux Moutons. If we had been 2 minutes earlier or weighed 20 kilos less we would have floated gently across the passage which separates Ile Callot from the French mainland.

Nicky threading her way through the numerous reefs and inlets which characterize this section of the Brittany coastline.