Benodet, a five-star seaside resort in Finistère
Where the River Odet meets the Atlantic Ocean, Benodet stands as one of the most elegant seaside resorts in southern Finistère. Rated five stars, the town charms visitors with its immaculate seafront, flower-filled gardens, bustling marina and a remarkably wide range of activities.
Just a 10-minute drive from Fouesnant, Benodet is the perfect companion destination if you want to mix things up during your holiday in Cornouaille.
Cruising the Odet, the most beautiful river in France
The Odet is often described as the most beautiful river in France, and a single cruise is enough to see why. From Benodet marina, the Vedettes de l'Odet run narrated cruises along the winding river all the way to Quimper.
Along the way you will discover wooded banks, châteaux hidden in the greenery, coves unreachable by land and rich wildlife (grey heron, egret, kingfisher). Several options are available:
- Narrated cruise Benodet to Quimper: approximately 1h30, with an optional stop in Quimper for a stroll before heading back.
- Sunset cruise: in summer, a magical experience on the golden waters of the Odet.
- Cruises to the Glénan islands : Benodet is the main departure port for reaching the archipelago.
Contact Vedettes de l'Odet: 02 98 57 00 58
Thalassotherapy and wellness by the ocean in Benodet
The Relais Thalasso Benodet offers a relaxing retreat facing the sea. The centre has full facilities for a thorough body restoration:
- Seawater circuit: heated seawater pools with hydro-massage jets, bubble baths and a counter-current swimming lane.
- Relaxation area: hammam, sauna and solarium with ocean views.
- Body treatments: seaweed wraps, marine scrubs, relaxing or toning massages.
- Massages: hot stone massage, Californian massage, duo massage.
Half-day, full-day and multi-day packages are available. A perfect idea for a rest day between two days at the beach.
Benodet casino and nightlife
The Casino de Benodet keeps the resort lively all year round. Set facing the sea, it offers:
- Slot machines: a wide selection of machines to try your luck in a friendly atmosphere.
- Table games: roulette, blackjack and poker, depending on the season.
- Restaurant: a varied menu for dining in before or after the games.
- Concerts and themed evenings: a regular programme of live music, dance nights and shows.
The casino plays a big part in making Benodet one of the few resorts in Finistère with a genuine nightlife scene.
Monday market: local produce and Breton flavours
Every Monday morning from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the centre of Benodet comes alive with its weekly market. Stalls from local producers and artisans line the streets, offering a full showcase of Breton flavours:
- Seafood: fresh catch of the day, shellfish, Belon oysters and other shellfish.
- Breton specialities: freshly made crêpes and galettes, kouign-amann, far breton, salted-butter caramels.
- Cider and drinks: dry and sweet cider, chouchen (Breton mead), artisan apple juice.
Tip: arrive early for the best selection, especially in high season.
Heritage and walks in Benodet
Beyond its seaside appeal, Benodet has architectural and natural heritage well worth exploring:
- The lighthouses: the Phare de la Pyramide and the Phare du Coq mark the mouth of the Odet and bear witness to the town's maritime history.
- Saint-Thomas Becket Church: a 12th-century Romanesque building dedicated to the famous Archbishop of Canterbury, a unique case in Brittany.
- Le Musée du Bord de Mer: traces the history of Benodet from coastal fishing to tourism.
Coastal path: a 4 km walk links the Pointe de Mousterlin to the Pointe Saint-Gilles along the shoreline. On a clear day, the views of the Glénan archipelago are breathtaking.
Family activities in Benodet
Benodet is a particularly family-friendly destination with several activities designed for children:
- Parc Odet Loisirs: an outdoor amusement park with bouncy castles, trampolines, obstacle courses and water games.
- Sightseeing train: in summer, a little train winds through the streets of Benodet and along the seafront.
- Cinémarine cinema: on a rainy day, Benodet's cinema offers a varied programme.
Stay in Fouesnant and enjoy Benodet
Benodet is just a 10-minute drive from Fouesnant. By choosing a holiday rental in Fouesnant, you get quick access to everything Benodet has to offer while enjoying the outstanding natural setting of Fouesnant's beaches.
Plan your stay with our other guides: