ExploreFrench Cornouaille

French Cornouaille

Large natural spaces, a rich and colourful heritage: discover French Cornouaille, its unspoilt coastline with little towns full of character and firmly-founded traditions.

You can prepare your visit to Douarnenez Bay using the map of Cornouaille, which stretches from Quimperlé to the Pointe du Raz passing through Pays Bigouden.

Tourisme and heritage map of Brittany - DESTINATION QUIMPER CORNOUAILLE

©Carte Destination Quimper Cornouaille|Utilisateur

Locronan

The Town of Weavers no longer needs to earn its reputation, as it has already been ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France, set apart by the architectural quality of its buildings that date from the 1400s to 1700s.

Step back in time as you meet the craftspeople here and if you can, make a special visit in December to enjoy the Christmas lights.

Several films have used Locronan as their backdrop including Roman Polanski’s ‘Tess’, Philippe de Broca’s ‘Chouans’ and Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s classic, ‘A Very Long Engagement’.

Quimper

This city has earned the label ‘Town of Art and History’, which is not surprising given its outstanding architecture, the colourful timbered buildings and the twin-spire cathedral. Its narrow and cobbled streets are lined with shops and boutiques, while the town centre also features magnificent gardens and waterways including the River Odet.

Quimper was also the birthplace of a particular type of hand-painted ceramic called ‘La Faïencerie’ as well as being known for its shoemakers that flourished along Rue Kereon. Make time to visit the Fine Arts Museum with its beautiful collection of works, and the Musée Départemental Breton, both close to the cathedral.

If you’re here in July, don’t miss the Festival de Cornouaille, a music festival that attracts the best Breton dancers and musicians!

The coastal points of Raz and Van

Go west!

Welcome to France’s version of Land’s End, where in winter, the wind will whip away any hair you might have left. These two wild coastal points have dizzying cliffs that face far-flung America, way off beyond the Île de Sein island that you can spot on the horizon.

For those who love coastal paths and hiking, the famous GR34 path connects these two coastal points, passing the famous Baie des Trépassés (a renowned surf spot). This walk covers 6km, but will take around 2 hours as it’s far from a level walk so bear that in mind if you need to walk back again – but it’s well worth it for the incredible views! If you love fresh air and Breton moors, you’ll adore this.

Le Guilvinec

Next to Penmarc’h, Le Guilvinec is a picture-perfect Breton fishing port. It’s even the top port in France for traditional fishing. You soon get the idea that fishing really is what Le Guilvinec is all about.

The terrace above the fish-auction house offers panoramic views so you can stand here and watch the fishing boats return with their catch at the end of the afternoon.

Pont-Croix

A modest historic town that is full of charm and character, with the church of Notre-Dame de Roscudon, ancient buildings and steep cobbled streets that lead down to the river – the real problem is climbing back up again!

The views over the estuary of the River Goyen are amazing, and give you a bird’s-eye view of the 12km walking circuit that spans both sides of the river.

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