Île Molène

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Scarcely 1km across, Île Molène feels even more remote than its neighbour Île d'Ouessant. It's carless, virtually treeless, home to a declining population of just 169 people (inhabitants are known as Molénais) and its electricity supply depends on a single diesel generator. The island's only village is Le Bourg, a hamlet of whitewashed fishing cottages clustered around a granite quay, with a church. Needless to say, the island can only be explored on foot.

A half-day is all you really need to walk the island's circumference. Another option, which also allows you to investigate the nearby islets, is to hire a kayak or canoe, which can be arranged from the port on arrival. The island has several chambres d'hôte, a campground, a hotel and a list of other properties to rent – check the website for more information.

All ferries to Ouessant stop here en route.


Must-see attractions