A day on the Ile de Sein
The alarm goes off slightly earlier than usual, still the buzz is undeniable! Today you’re off to the Ile de Sein! As the sky takes on a soft pink hue over the ocean, you have a quick, convivial breakfast on your mobile home’s terrace; hot chocolate, crusty mini baguettes with salted butter and a lovely coffee to kick-start the day!
Your bags are ready; picnic, windcheater, binoculars and camera. You’re in the car headed to Audierne, where the boat is scheduled to depart.
You climb aboard the boat, headed for Sein. The air is bracing, invigorating and the children sit down at the front, so they miss nothing during the crossing. Between bursts of laughter catching the sea spray, you glimpse the outline of La Vieille lighthouse, and steep cliffs of the Pointe du Raz headland.
After a short one-hour crossing, the island comes into view; low-lying, colourful, engulfed by the waves. A complete change of scenery!
Barely have you landed, and you’re strolling through the town’s narrow streets between whitewashed houses and turquoise shutters. The island appears frozen in time, sheltered by the wind and light. No cars here. You walk everywhere…the kids love this!
You start a circular trail across the island, heading for Goulenez lighthouse on the western tip of Sein. The scenery is untamed, strewn with flowers, with the sea ever present.
You find a sheltered spot behind a dune, to get the picnic set up. Homemade sandwiches, hard boiled eggs, fruit and a few chocolate biscuits…All with an ocean view, the wind in your hair and the call of the seagulls your soundtrack.
The children go off collecting shells and pebbles worn down by the sea. You close your eyes for a few minutes. No traffic noise. You’re alone with nature.
You make your way down to a small unspoilt creek. The kids take their shoes off, soaking their feet, and end up in their swimwear running through the cold water. You get the towels and sun cream out, and set up your base camp.
Today’s agenda includes sandcastles, dips, reading and a siesta. Time seems to stand still. You feel far, far way from everything.
Before getting on the boat again, you have one last look around the village. In a small shop, the children each choose a postcard and decorated shell.
A traditional ice cream in hand, you sit down at the port waiting to board. As the sun gently goes down, the facades take on a golden hue. You’re already tempted to return here during a future stay…maybe even for a night, who knows?
Once aboard, salt still in your hair, everyone revisits the day’s most memorable moments. The turquoise waters, trails in bloom, the feeling of space, silence and freedom. The children are almost asleep, curled up against you.
You’re delighted to get back to your mobile home. A lovely shower, a spot of dinner on the terrace – rice salad, melon, and French apple tart bought the previous day. You end the evening with a game of cards, as the last glimmers of light fade from the sky.
The Ile de Sein will live long in the memory, as a timeless interlude…and one of the best times of your holiday.
