Pointe de Pen-Hir
About
Pointe de Pen-Hir stands proudly on the Crozon Peninsula in Brittany, offering a dramatic promontory that rises 70 metres above the Atlantic. Below the cliffs, the sweeping sea lingers before meeting the horizon, while the air is often filled with the salty breeze of the Gulf of Morbihan. The site is crowned by the imposing Cross of Pen-Hir—a monument erected between 1949 and 1951 by architect Jean‑Baptiste Mathon and sculptor Victor‑François Bazin. Inaugurated in 1960 by the legendary General Charles de Gaulle, the cross honors the Free Breton soldiers who fought for France’s liberation during World War II. Visitors can climb to the cross and pause to read inscriptions that celebrate bravery and patriotism. From the height of the monument, you enjoy commanding views of the Pointe du Raz, the Isles of Sein and Ouessant, as well as the distant Pointe Saint‑Mathieu—a panorama that delights photographers, history lovers, and tranquillity seekers alike. The stretch is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, with plenty of small trails and scenic platforms that invite you to linger and soak in the landscape. The monument is free to access and open year‑round, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace. The Pointe’s early‑morning or late‑afternoon light provides the best visual drama, with golden-tinted cliffs and soft clouds creating a breathtaking atmosphere. Because the trails are simple and well‑maintained, families, solo wanderers, and veteran walkers alike can enjoy the experience without difficulty. The monument is a quiet tribute to history, wrapped in natural beauty, making it an essential stop for anyone touring Brittany’s rugged coastline.
Highlights
- Monument to the Bretons of Free France
- Cross of Pen-Hir
- Stunning Coastal Views
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and the sea is calm, offering clear views and comfortable walking conditions
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours