La Torche
Plomeur, Brittany (Finistère), France
Sports: Kitesurfing, Windsurfing, Surfing, Surf foiling
Best time to go: March–May, September–November
La Torche is a rocky point at the southern end of the Baie d'Audierne in Finistère, south Brittany, with long sandy beaches running north towards Tronoën and south towards Pors Carn. Facing west into the Atlantic, it picks up almost every swell, and the shape of the headland means surfers can often find a sheltered corner. It is one of the best-known surf spots in Brittany and has a long history of windsurfing and kitesurfing events.
Surfers prefer light easterly or north-easterly winds, which blow offshore. For kiting and windsurfing, westerly and south-westerly winds blow onshore to side-onshore over the beaches north of the point, giving wave riding for experienced sailors. The bottom is sand on the beaches, with rocks around the point. Spring and autumn bring the best mix of swell and wind; winter can be very big and stormy. Currents run strongly near the point, and the water is cold most of the year. Beach zones and launch areas apply in summer, so check local rules and give surfers space.
Spots near La Torche
- Porthleven (259 km)
- Newquay – Fistral Beach (292 km)
More: All spots in France · Kitesurfing in France · Windsurfing in France · Surfing in France · Surf foiling in France