In 1791, two years after the French Revolution, the government decided to launch a crusade against the illegal trade and smuggling that were plaguing the Breton coast. A path took shape along the coastline, weaving in and out of lonely coves, and climbing the heights of the steep cliffs. Customs officers' houses and watchtowers sprang up along its length.

In 1968, two centuries later, the struggle was over. The customs officers disappeared and were replaced by nature lovers. A group of experienced hikers decided to embellish the route with the red and white markers that define long-distance hiking trails in Europe, and it became known as the GR34. In 2018, the trail was voted ‘France's Favourite GR’.

This 2,000-kilometre (1,240 mi) route stretches along the coast between Saint-Nazaire and Mont-Saint-Michel, passing through some of Brittany’s exceptional landscapes. The marshes of Guérande, Cornouaille, the Abers region, the Emerald Coast and the Pink Granite Coast are just some of the marvels to be found along the way. For lovers of history and nature, this extraordinary GR route is much more than just a path, it is a journey through the past.

At the start of this Collection, you leave the pleasant medieval town of Lannion to discover one of the jewels of Brittany: the Pink Granite Coast. Along the ocean, generous portions of the customs officers' path run alongside granite shapes and lunar landscapes.

To punctuate your stages, you’ll discover Breton towns, breathing in the salty air blowing from the Atlantic. Perros-Guirec and its seaside charms, Tréguier and its episcopal influence, Lézardrieux and its iconic suspension bridge, and many other places lie en route.

The hike starts and ends at Lannion and Paimpol railway stations respectively, which are served daily. They allow you to reach Guingamp, located on the main Brest-Rennes axis.

This section of the GR 34 has a wide range of accommodation. Remember to book in advance in the high season.

With its easy trails, this portion of the GR 34 is passable all year round. Lots of shops line the route, so pack light and bring the bare essentials. In summer, the wind can mask the heat so don't forget to cover your head and hydrate regularly. In winter, Brittany is a particularly humid region so remember to equip yourself with appropriate clothing, both for the cold and for the rain.

Have a good trip !

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Useful links :

The first part of the Customs Officers' Path between Saint-Nazaire and Pont d’Armes: komoot.com/collection/2419552
The second part of the Customs Officers' Path between Pont d’Armes and Surzur: komoot.com/collection/2422272
The third part of the Customs Officers' Path between Surzur and Sarzeau: komoot.com/collection/2428988
The fourth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Sarzeau and Vannes:
komoot.com/collection/2431084
The fifth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Vannes and Lorient: komoot.com/collection/2458062
The sixth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Lorient and Concarneau:
komoot.com/collection/2459250
The seventh part of the Customs Officers' Path between Concarneau and Pointe du Raz: komoot.com/collection/2463258
The eighth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Pointe du Raz and Le Fret: komoot.com/collection/2464503
The ninth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Fret and Brest: komoot.com/collection/2465755
The tenth part of the Customs Officers' Path between Brest and Guissény:
komoot.com/collection/247011
The 11th part of the Customs Officers' Path between Guissény and Morlaix: komoot.com/collection/2471311
The 12th part of the Customs Officers' Path between Morlaix and Lannion: komoot.com/collection/2472006