Set sail for escape around Quimper! Between cobbled streets and cathedral, the City of Art and History in Finistère mainly makes you want to venture into its surroundings: cliffs of the Pointe du Raz, translucent waters of the Crozon peninsula, the arty charm of Pont-Aven, or the ramparts of Concarneau. Put on your windbreaker and sneakers: here are 12 must-see spots to breathe in the sea air, gain elevation, and collect breathtaking panoramas.
At the gates of Quimper, the capital of art and history of Finistère, twelve getaways open up, making the Breton heart beat even stronger. Cliffs at the end of the world, artists’ villages, surfing beaches, mythical lighthouses, and secret gorges: follow the iodized wind and let yourself be guided to these must-see places for days filled with sea air, walks, and delightful surprises.
Pointe du Raz
Facing the Atlantic, the Pointe du Raz unfolds its cinematic decor: steep cliffs, breath of the open sea, and the exhilarating sensation of being at the end of everything. Classified as a Grand Site of France and located about an hour from Quimper, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Raz de Sein. Here, every step tastes of freedom, every gust of wind recharges the batteries.
Baie des Trépassés
Its name impresses, its decor enchants. The Baie des Trépassés, nestled between the Pointe du Raz and the Pointe du Van, aligns a magnificent beach where surfers have fun with the waves. Ideal for a salty break, it reveals a superb panorama over the neighboring caps, especially at sunset.
Pont-Aven
Besides its famous biscuit, it’s mainly the artistic soul of Pont-Aven that captivates: museums, galleries, and greenery-lined streets tell a story of an inspiring Brittany. Between the promenade des Moulins and the promenade Xavier Grall, the water murmurs and the light vibrates the stones. Food lovers will gladly linger at the local biscuit factory to extend the visit, while art enthusiasts will indulge in a creative pause, akin to this invitation to painting and travel that nourishes inspiration.
Concarneau
A must-see, Concarneau enchants with its Ville Close, its chemin de ronde, and the château de Kériolet. One loves to stroll there early in the morning or off-season to savor the maritime ambiance, then head to the Marinarium to discover underwater life in a playful and responsible manner. Want to extend the getaway a bit further? Treat yourself to a day in Bénodet, another beautiful seaside stop in southern Finistère.
Gorges du Stangala
North of Quimper, the Gorges du Stangala reveal a natural gem along the Odet. Trails, walkways, and viewpoints follow one another for a refreshing hike. Local tip: enter Griffonès into the GPS for access to a more discreet parking area and to reach a less frequented entrance to the site.
Phare d’Eckmühl (Penmarc’h)
In Penmarc’h, the majestic phare d’Eckmühl grazes the sky. Day or night, the visit retraces the history of the coastline and concludes with a breathtaking panorama. The approximately 300 steps work the calves, but the reward is grandiose. About thirty kilometers south of Quimper, it’s the ascent that lights up the day.
Presqu’île de Crozon
Head to the presqu’île de Crozon for a condensed experience of spectacular landscapes: sculpted cliffs, clear sea, and wild moors. The marine caves of Morgat, accessible by boat, add a touch of mystery to the discovery. This place has the rare power to transport you in just a few minutes, even for freshwater sailors.
Lorient and the citadel of Port-Louis
In Lorient, the maritime soul fully expresses itself: Cité de la Voile, ports, and heritage take you on a modern odyssey. Cross the harbor to reach Port-Louis and its citadel facing the ocean: a postcard-perfect setting, especially at sunset. If you pass through in summer, head to the Festival Interceltique for an atmosphere that is 100% local and musical.
Pontivy
Between the canal from Nantes to Brest and Blavet, Pontivy mixes medieval lanes and avenues inherited from Napoleon. The château des Rohan watches over the town, while the banks invite relaxation. Rent a kayak, cycle at your own pace, or simply stroll along the water: this is Brittany’s gentler side.
Le Faouët
A little gem in the heart of the land, Le Faouët captivates with its sublime Halles and the chapelle Sainte-Barbe, perched in a spectacular setting. A detour is also necessary via the musée du Faouët, located in the former convent of the Ursulines, for a dive into art and local traditions.
Brest
Brest shakes off clichés with Océanopolis, a vast aquarium that fascinates young and old, and its château anchored facing the sea. The tour Tanguy tells the story of the city, while the Conservatoire botanique offers a green interlude. A city with a strong character, to visit without hesitation during a stay in Quimper.
Locronan
Near Douarnenez, Locronan enchants with its granite houses, flowery streets, and its title of Petite Cité de Caractère. Classified as a Monument historique, the village seems frozen in time. Climb the Montagne de Locronan (285 m, promise it climbs easily) to embrace a lovely view over the bay: guaranteed postcard moment.
Extend the getaway from Quimper
Want to add a secret touch to your itinerary? Go reveal the secrets of the Monts d’Arrée, the other wild face of inland Brittany. Sea lovers will complete their circuit with a day in Bénodet for a mix of beaches, spa, and bike rides along the Odet. Traveling by van? Head to these Brittany spots to discover by camper van to combine freedom and panoramas. And if the Breton weather plays the artist, keep handy some fun activity ideas to occupy the tribe, or draw inspiration from this arty escape around painting and travel: creative, relaxing, and decidedly inspiring.
