the &more series: #1 - easter in la trinité sur mer

La Trinité-sur-Mer is one of those coastal towns that seems to hold its breath in winter and exhale with joy as soon as spring arrives. Tucked along the southern coast of Brittany, in the heart of the Morbihan region, this charming harbor town is known for its strong sailing culture, fresh seafood, and relaxed way of life. Whether you're watching boats glide across the water, running along the coastline, or indulging in market-fresh oysters, La Trinité feels like a place where time slows down just enough to let you savor it all.

Spi Ouest France: When the Town Comes Alive

Every Easter weekend, La Trinité hosts the Spi Ouest-France, one of the largest regattas in Europe. This year, more than 400 boats competed in over 30 categories across four exhilarating days. After the quiet of the winter season, the town bursts back into life: sailors, families, and friends fill the streets, harborside bars overflow with laughter, and the town’s energy becomes contagious. Concerts, talks, pop-up markets, and activities keep things festive, and there’s a real sense of shared joy in the air. It’s the perfect time to visit if you want to experience the town at its liveliest.

Market Life & Food Shopping

One of the joys of returning to France is food shopping, and La Trinité doesn’t disappoint. Twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays), the marché takes over Place du Voullien with fresh produce, cheese, meats, and everything else you might crave. A family favorite tradition is the "petit déjeuner breton" at the market: grabbing crepes and galettes for breakfast and washing them down with a glass of cider.

For the freshest fish, head to La Criée, the town’s daily fish market (open until around noon). The selection is always fresh-from-the-boat, with gleaming shellfish and glistening fish laid out in rows.

Just over the bridge in Saint-Philibert, the Ferme de Quehan is a food lover’s dream. From vibrant vegetables to local cheeses and dairy products, it’s a beautiful, rustic place to stock up. I also visited Les Vergers de Kerbellec, another great local farm, and you can’t forget the region’s cider. My family’s go-to is Cidrerie de Rhuys NICOL, where you can taste and purchase directly from the producer.

Where to Eat: Seafood Heaven

You’re never far from incredible seafood in La Trinité-sur-Mer. Some of the best experiences come from buying directly from producers:

• Pevedic, located at the end of Rue de la Pierre Jaune, is great for fresh oysters.

• Across the water, many oyster farmers sell directly to consumers. Just follow the signs and ask for what's freshest!

For something more festive, try one of the town’s newer seafood "dégustation" spots:

• Chez Quintin and Chez Jaouen are popular choices for oysters, shrimp, fish rillettes, and champagne by the water.

• Restaurants like Le Chantier, Le Quai, and Les Voiles (15 minutes outside La Trinité) serve refined seafood dishes in a more formal setting.

Not in the mood for seafood? La Marée Douce and Le Carré are both fantastic for a broader menu and relaxed ambiance. Le Carré is also my go-to for drinks, along with Le Trého, a recently revamped spot above the sailing school that now offers craft beer and small plates.

Running & Walking: Explore the Coastline

One of my favorite ways to enjoy La Trinité is by running its scenic routes. During Easter weekend, I explored several of them:

• Pointe de Saint-Philibert loop: Starting from La Trinité, this 15km route takes you around the beautiful peninsula of Saint-Philibert. It’s a stunning loop for a long run or a peaceful 3-hour walk along the coast.

• Chemin des Douaniers to Kervillen: A local favorite, this 6km out-and-back trail starts at the harbor and winds along the old customs path. You'll pass beaches, wildflowers, and even remnants of wartime bunkers.

• Forest to beach run: I also ran through a small forest near Rue de Kervourden, joined the Chemin de Bagneux, then followed Rue de Carnac and turned back toward town through Domaine de Kerdual. Once I hit the beach at Kervillen, I finished the loop back via the Chemin des Douaniers — about 9km in total. A perfect blend of forest, village, and sea views.

Culture & Day Trips

Beyond the food and the harbor, La Trinité is surrounded by culture and history:

• Visit the Carnac stones or the Grand Menhir Brisé in Locmariaquer.

• Take day trips to Auray, Vannes, or Lorient for maritime museums, medieval streets, and bustling markets.

La Trinité-sur-Mer holds a special place in my heart. My family has been visiting for generations, and every return feels like reconnecting with a part of myself. It’s laid-back, warm, and full of treasures waiting to be discovered—whether you’re there for the regattas, the seafood, or just the salty breeze and good company. This small town on the South Brittany coast is proof that simple pleasures can be the most memorable.