Feel like taking out the mainsail and slipping downwind? Although the famous song doesn't directly evoke Groix, this Breton Island in the south of Morbihan has inspired numerous artists who, on arriving at the charming Port Tudy, couldn't miss the Ty Mad hotel. This former bourgeois family residence, whose name means “good house”, is a must-see on Pomegranate Island. A 3-star establishment ideal for a rejuvenating stay in Brittany.
If nature lovers come to Groix for its rare minerals, its ornithological wealth (the island is home to some sixty protected bird species) or Europe's only convex beach, the little pebble of land 8 km long and 3 km wide is more widely appreciated by visitors for its calm and authenticity.
Two characteristics perfectly embodied by the Ty Mad hotel, a family home gradually transformed into top-of-the-range accommodation by 3 generations of Groisillons. Situated on Port Tudy, opposite the ferry terminal and on the seafront, the address is perfect for exploring the wild moors and coves of this little Breton haven of peace.
But before you put on your best sailor's outfit or the emblematic Morbihan yellow foulies, a night lulled by the gentle sound of the surf and comforting Breton cuisine await epicureans.
A simple bar much appreciated by sailors for several decades, it was in 1966 that the now unmissable Hotel de Groix began its transformation, thanks to Juliette and Jobic Puillon, the grandparents of the current owners.
In their day, the hotel/restaurant had 31 rooms, but successive renovations to the historic granite building with its whitewashed facade have resulted in an establishment with:
The rooms
Pastel colors, linen curtains, embroidered boutis...: they're all decorated in a warm, modern style.
Offering a sea, courtyard or garden view, they are also all equipped with:
The bar/restaurant
While the hotel is run by Marion, the granddaughter of the original owners, it's her brother Antoine who is in charge of Les Garçons du Port, the restaurant overlooking Port Tudy. The kitchen, which opens onto the dining room, serves dishes made with fresh, local and seasonal produce.
Whether it's a romantic breakfast, a family lunch or dinner, or a summer aperitif with friends (under an authentic boat sail sheltering from the Breton sun), the friendly atmosphere of this popular Groisillon address is the perfect complement to a stay in this family-run establishment.
The terrace
New for summer 2024, this wooden terrace with a breathtaking view of the harbor is the last project initiated by Marie Puillon (mother of the current managers) before her retirement. Nestled in the hotel's sunny courtyard, the space can accommodate up to 80 guests and serves seafood and cocktails from attractive beach huts.
A maritime atmosphere intended by the owner of Les Garçons du Port, continuing the history of the fishermen's bar originally acquired by his grandparents nearly 60 years ago.
The rooms are very pleasant and cozy, making you feel right at home.
The lounge with its fireplace is a welcome place to relax in case of rain.
Incredible breakfast. Perfect location and very friendly staff!
Immortalized in painting by Paul Signac, in music by Gilles Servat (his famous Tri martolod is inspired by a traditional Breton song entitled “The Three Sailors of Groix”) and in literature by, among others, Lorraine Fouchet, who set the plot of her latest novel “Facing the immense sea” there, the island, which is only a three-quarter-hour boat ride from Lorient, also inspires tourists with its rich natural and cultural heritage.
Here's a small selection of things to see on the island:
Many of these Groisillons still run a snail and abalone farm, which is also open to enthusiasts of preserved know-how.
More generally, if this piece of land, eroded by the wind and sea over the centuries, sees its population multiply by 10 in summer, it's also because its many menhirs and dolmens, its ancient washhouses and fountains and its four chapels form a concentrate of Breton heritage that's bound to attract the curious in search of authenticity.
There are so many things to discover, on foot or by bike, starting from the Ty Mad hotel and finishing with a break on one of the island's fifteen or so heavenly beaches or coves. Perhaps you'll run into two residents known for their ecological commitment, Eva Joly and Dominique Voynet. Or perhaps, while fishing or hiking, Charlie Hebdo cartoonist Willem will appear with pencil in hand.
Whatever the case, fans of highly Instagrammables scenery will find plenty to warm up their smartphones as they stroll across heather-rich moors or dunes leading to beaches with translucent turquoise waters. One of these is called Tahiti Beach, but the most famous and photographed is Grands-Sables, with its intriguing geological feature: here, it is the sand that advances towards the sea, rather than the water that gradually covers the shore.
As far as temperatures are concerned, the Atlantic Ocean doesn't offer Polynesian temperatures, but between 2 walks to fill up on iodized air, the Ty Mad's heated swimming pool will be all the more appreciated. With its deckchairs where you can listen to the seagulls singing while sipping a cocktail, it's an invitation to make the most of your stay in Groix's most famous hotel.
Enjoy your stay!
Valérie from Comme des Français
To extend your reading in Breton country
Crédit photos : https://depositphotos.com/fr/
