Paimpol - Ile de Bréhat
Among the landmark destinations of Côtes d’Armor are Paimpol and the Isle of Bréhat, both ‘absolute musts’ !
Between land and sea...
Marked by its maritime past and immortalised by Pierre Loti in his novel ""Pécheur d'Islande (An Iceland Fisherman)"", Paimpol has plenty of places to explore and visit as well as its Sea Shanty music festival. The past of the charming town is delightfully illustrated by fine houses built for privateers and ship owners and tiny, narrow streets which today house pretty shops, art galleries and studios of well-known artists !
The Isle of Bréhat
Known poetically as the « Ile aux fleurs (island of flowers) », the Isle of Bréhat was the first place in France to be classed as a natural site on 13 July 1907. This little island community enchants by its silence. There are no cars here, just bikes and ‘Shank’s pony’ ! Take your family, your partner, your friends, for a day trip or a longer stay, you are sure to fall under the spell of this timeless corner of paradise just a few minutes by boat from the mainland. Lots of natural and heritage attractions to discover in the two parts of the island and make sure you have good walking shoes if you want to go to the Phare du Paon lighthouse at the northern tip of the island.
Remarkable natural attractions …
The Festival du Chant de Marin (Sea Shanty Festival) : an institution at Paimpol !
The Sea Shanty Festival at Paimpol started in 1989. Every two years the quaysides of Paimpol echo to the sound of music from around the world and hundreds of traditional sailing ships come into the harbour. Sea shanties were originally sung by sailors to help them pace their work on board ship or wind down when they reached port. They recount voyages, adventure and camaraderie, themes which occupy centre stage during this festival in Paimpol.
How to get to Paimpol and Bréhat
Paimpol is easily reached by road, rail, bus and even boat ! Passenger ferries to Bréhat run from the Pointe de l’Arcouest (car park and panoramic viewpoint) and in summer from other ports in Côtes d’Armor. You can go straight to Bréhat and back or take a boat trip around the islets to marvel at the beautiful scenery which changes with the tide and light."