Concarneau and Pont Aven
The walled town is an absolute gem at the heart of Concarneau and one of the most beautiful bays in Brittany.
Concarneau and its walled town
The walled town is an absolute gem at the heart of Concarneau and one of the most beautiful bays in Brittany. Walk around its ramparts, narrow streets and fishing harbour. Enjoy water sports and seaside activities at the fine sandy beaches in the town.
For a break or longer holiday, Concarneau and Pont Aven are wonderful places to relax and have fun. An ideal destination for a holiday in south Finistère with family, friends or a partner, there is something for everyone – attractive coastal scenery, beaches, a marina, little fishing harbours, places of interest, water sports and coastal footpaths.
The ‘Art and History town’ of Concarneau has many maritime aspects with its14th century ramparts and its bustling harbour, home port for over 200 fishing boats, and fish auction which early risers can visit.
The Tour Vauban tower shows the way to the entrance of the walled town over two small bridges. Stroll along Rue Vauban, the main street which is lined with shops in keeping with the town, and through narrow, cobbled lanes featuring flower-decked half-timbered houses and shops while enjoying a crepe or a home-made ice cream.
The walled town offers magnificent views of the fishing harbour, the marina and the Bay of Concarneau. In the centre of the town itself, don’t miss the covered market dating from1855, the modern church (and its remarkable mosaic by Bazaine), traditional houses and of course, the view from the coastal footpath, the Musée de la Pêche (Museum of Fishing), the Marinarium and the splendid Château de Kériolet. The town has 5 different discovery trails to help with sight-seeing.
Next stop the Glénan Isles
Take a day trip to the Glénan islands, a little corner of paradise with turquoise water and sandy or pebble beaches.
Another place well worth a visit is Port la Forêt at La Forêt Fouesnant with its yacht marina, well-known to ocean yachtsmen, pretty coves for rock pool fishing and long sandy beaches, ideal for families with children. The ‘voie verte’ traffic-free greenway is a wonderful way to enjoy the peaceful countryside on foot or by bike. Water sports including sailing, canoeing and surfing are also popular here.
Pont-Aven and little coastal harbours
Admire the beauty of Rosporden Lake, walk or cycle along the ‘green way’ which runs as far as Roscoff, follow the river Aven into the centre of Pont Aven, well known for its galettes (biscuits). Visit the museum in this artists’ town to discover painters who stayed there, such as Emile Bernard and Paul Gauguin, who built the reputation of the Pont-Aven School. Marvel at the Christ Jaune which inspired Gauguin, in the little chapel at Tremalo. Stroll through the streets and pop into the numerous art galleries and shops.
Pont-Aven and the typical little harbours of Doëlan
Discover the typical little harbours of Doëlan, Brigneau, Merrien and Belon, enjoy local oysters and walk along the scenic coastal footpath. Visit the charming 16th century thatched villages of Kerhascoët and Kercanic villages and Port Manec’h at Nevez. Explore the rugged coastline around the Pointe de de Trévignon and the dunes and coastal ponds at Trévignon (750 hectares of unspoilt land brimming with birds and amphibians). In the evening, wait for the local fishing boats to come in and buy fish and shellfish from them.
If you’re feeling a little peckish, try some Belon oysters, freshly landed fish or local crepes.
After a day on the beach or sight-seeing, those lucky enough to be staying in holiday accommodation in Concarneau can enjoy the many restaurants and shows at the Carrés des Larrons in the walled town or go a little further to find a musical concert or traditional dance evening. For a romantic touch, there’s nothing like an evening stroll along the sea front watching the sunset over the sea.
« What I adore most in this corner of Finistère, is walking beside the tranquil River Aven, or going to the beach when the crowds have left. Sheer bliss ! »
To get to Concarneau by car take the RN165 towards Quimper-Brest, exit for Concarneau. Bus and railway station at Rosporden 15km."
