Canyon trekking in the Iroise Marine Park • EnezGreen

Sea canyoning: a trendy activity

Canyoning is an activity that generally takes place in rivers, but why not try it out at sea, at the foot of steep cliffs? The idea came to Claude Le Guitton’s mind while he was walking along the splendid untamed rock faces overlooking the Bertheaume Cove. It was materialised when the manager of the centre for underwater activities, Rando Mer, explored the coasts which counts multiple rock faults, canyons, rocky headlands and even caves! ‘The rocky faults that are more eroded at their base by the sea can form beautiful caves. The relentless beating of the ocean waves, after flood and ebb, carves narrow corridors which are sometimes 50 m long,’ explains Claude Le Guitton, an explorer at heart who was so enthusiastic about what he discovered that he created up several paths adapted to the various levels of participants.

Explore multiple rock faults, canyons, rocky headlands and even caves

Taking advantage of a sunny weather window, I join the Rando Mer team, which consists of young adolescents who have opted for the 5-day package offered by the centre. After undertaking their first dive, exploring an underwater trail, swimming with seals and enjoying dolphin watching, the children are about to experience canyon trekking. The name of the activity itself evokes adventure and suffices to arouse the boys’ eagerness to try it out. It takes little time to reach the Bertheaume Cove from the beach of Treiz Hir. The tide is nearly completely low and the tide coefficient is relatively high. So much the better given that the more exposed the rocks are, the more time we have for exploration! Claude spots a site sheltered from the wind and slight swell, checks the current and chooses a mooring at optimal distance in order to allow swimmers to approach the site in all safety. After a comprehensive briefing session on safety rules and on the site, here we go for some canyon trekking!

A fun and educational activity

Equipped with neoprene wetsuits, hoods and soles, we follow the guide and the adventure begins: we traipse among the rocks, run through wavelets to cross the almost flooded small inlets taking care not to slip on seaweed, then we climb a rocky headland where the views of the marine park and of Molène are breathtaking. Our hands and feet easily find grips and we have no difficulty to climb to the top. Perched at 4 m high, one after the other, we jump into the crystal clear emerald water. There is plenty of laughter and splashing and the young explorers attempt some acrobatic figures. Everyone is in a playful mood!

Between caves and natural water slides

We continue on our way, eager to know what’s next. We are not disappointed at all as Claude swims towards the entrance to a canyon. Despite water temperature of 15 °C, we do not feel cold as we always remain active and we quickly warm up on the rocks, which absorb heat from the sun. The passage surrounded by high rocky cliffs and is a sort of natural water slide and the fun-filled experience it provides gets us laughing and giggling. The activity is fun and varied, but is also focused on discovering the marine habitat and raising awareness about its preservation. Our guide takes every opportunity to tell us the names and habits of the species living in the different habitats observed. We did not suspect the existence of such biodiversity in these unknown places and learn that the rocks emerging from the water are an ideal habitat for a variety of underwater fauna: fish, crustaceans, shells, anemones, echinoderms and sponges, among others. The boys will have so many things to tell their family and friends. In fact, two of them have brought along a disposable camera and are all too happy to capture these unforgettable moments. ‘It is even funnier than playing PlayStation; this is a real and live experience!’

Protected Marine Area, key-features

A historic site at the forefront of the Iroise Marine Park ★★

The site: Situated on the coast, 20 km away from Brest a few nautical miles from Molène, the Bertheaume Cove is part of the Iroise Marine Park, a heaven of untamed nature where a group of sedentary bottlenose dolphins and the largest colony of seals living on the French coast co-exist.

Geographical and historical characteristics: Rando Mer is based in Plougonvelin, a popular seaside resort among people of Finistère, some 20 km from Brest and near the point of Saint Mathieu. The meeting point is on Perzel Beach below Bertheaume Fort. At the far end of the Bertheaume Cove and overlooking the Iroise Sea, the Bertheaume Fort was built by Vauban over the remains of an ancient castle.

An eco-friendly activity ★★

Environmental policy: The activity is undertaken on foot or in the water, except for the boat trip from the base to the rocky sites, which takes less than 10 minutes. The outing is limited from 3 to a maximum of 14 persons for added comfort and to limit the impact on the environment.

Sensitisation to environmental protection: Each outing at sea focuses on respect for and discovery of the environment. Along the way, the nature guide provides information to participants on the marine fauna and flora observed and sensitises them of the importance of their preservation.

Rando Mer also organises snorkling trips, kayak outings and walks along the coast ‘When lighthouses light up’. All year round, Claude offers workshops for schoolchildren to raise their awareness about the natural habitat and citizenship.

A well organised and supervised activity ★★

Capabilities: The Rando Mer guides are professionals with years of experience in the discovery of the marine habitat. Claude Le Guitton hold a state certification as diving instructor and is guide and water activity supervisor. He has a long experience in supervising and training diver and is specialised in introducing children to diving. Kévin Aubin graduated professional license in outdoor activities and nature protection management.

The boat: Rando Mer has a 7.90 m long rigid inflatable boat equipped with a 225 HP engine. Safety equipment on board complies with domestic legislation and mobile phone connection is available in the entire area in case of emergency.

The equipment: The organisation provides all the required equipment to clients, including 5 mm wetsuits with hoods and soles.

Outings schedules depend on weather conditions and tide times. The most favorable water level is mid-tide.

Accessibility: The service is available as from the age of 6 and with an adult and recommended from 8 years old alone, and can be offered in English for foreign visitors. Groups are welcome providing they book in advance.