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[Sud Finistère] [Pointe du Raz gallery]

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Cap Sizun / Pointe du Raz (Beg ar Raz) / Baie des Trépassés

The rocky Pointe du Raz at the tip of the Cap Sizun is one of the most prominent landmarks of Finistère. Together with two other points it forms the tip of the large triangle-like peninsula between the Baie d'Audierne to the south and the Baie de Douarnenez to the north. Heavy storms batter this point and the lighthouses on the offshore islands during winter and the differences in tidal hubs in the channel and the Atlantic create powerful currents around the cape and the islands, forming standing waves even during an otherwise calm sea.

The cliffs tower about 70 meters above the sea which they meet in a steep and spectacular manor. About one kilometre inland there´s a very large parking and a visitor centre to accommodate the usually large crowds of visitors. From the visitor centre it is an easy walk until you reach the final tip of the point. The view from up here is already fantastic.
For experienced hikers without fear of heights the narrow path leading along the steep cliff flanks offers the opportunity to walk / climb along the ridge to the outermost tip of the point. There´s more great views to have, particularly on the outer islands and the raging currents in between. The hike is only recommended for calm weather! There are also paths further inland leading along the cliff´s edges on both sides of the point which provide a nice hike.

North of the cape lies the Baie des Trépassés (the Bay of the Dead, named after the drowned sailors swept on the beach during storms in past days) which has a nice sandy beach in between cliffs. The surf often is good here but quickly gets dangerous in bigger swells.

For more visual impressions check the gallery

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