La Torche Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

NW, W, SW

Wind

Southeast, East

Surf Height

Waist high to overhead

Tide

All tides

La Torche Surf Guide

Brittany, in Northwest France, has closer historical links to its Celtic cousin Cornwall than to the rest of the French homeland. The close association is especially clear in the geography of the region: sandy bays punctuated by rocky headlands and outcrops.

La Torche is one of the most consistent beachbreaks in the region due to its exposure to the regular northwesterly swells that pound the coastline. The sandbar here regularly churns a long left, which walls for up to 200 meters, and an often-hollow right that breaks towards the point, conveniently petering out into the rip. If it's on, it will be busy. The fact that Pointe de la Torche is also a popular spot for windsurfers hints at some of its drawbacks.

Ability Level

All Abilities

BegIntAdv

Any and all surfers, especially when it is small.

Local Vibe

Welcoming

WelcomingIntimidating

Friendly.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

Large local crew and especially busy in the summer months.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Consistent and can be good on the right swell.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Normally not too bad but can be a bunch of current on certain swells.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Not bad.

Hazards

Current can get strong depending on the swell.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Longboard, Fish

Access

Easy with plenty of parking.

Bottom

Sand with rocky patches.

Best Season

Autumn and winter when the North Atlantic storm track is most active.

Do you have local knowledge about La Torche?

If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]