Travelling in Finistère, between land and sea
Finistère, the western tip of Brittany, offers spectacular scenery, with its jagged coastline and lush green countryside. There's nothing like a motorhome road trip to explore this unique region. Visit camping Les Saulesideally located near Quimper, is an excellent base from which to explore the whole department. Here's an overview of the wonders to discover on your Finistère tour.
The wild coast of North Finistère
Start your journey along the Coast of Legends, dotted with the strangely shaped rocks that have inspired so many fantastic stories. Here, nature reigns supreme, shaping a unique landscape where land and sea collide in a ceaseless ballet. Stroll along the fine sandy beachesWatch the seabirds nesting on the cliffs and be lulled by the sound of the waves breaking on the rocks.
Don't miss the impressive pointe de Pen-Hir on the Crozon peninsula. This rocky promontory offers panoramic views over the Iroise Sea, with its deep blue waters stretching as far as the eye can see. It's the perfect place to admire the sunset, when the sky sets ablaze and the golden light illuminates the cliffs.
Further west, it has been watching over the entrance to Brest harbour for over 170 years. This guardian of the sea, with its white tower and red lantern, is a symbol of the region's rich maritime heritage. Visit it to learn more about the history of navigation in these sometimes turbulent waters.
The Finistère islands, jewels of the Atlantic
Set sail to discover the Finisterian islands, true havens of peace far from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Ushant, the most westerly of the islands, will charm you with its windswept landscapes and iconic black sheep. Stroll along its coastal paths, visit its majestic lighthouses, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this island at the end of the world.
The island of Sein, a tiny piece of land set in the ocean, will transport you back in time. With its low houses with colourful shutters and narrow streets, this island seems frozen in time. Discover the heroic story of its inhabitants during the Second World War and admire the breathtaking view of the Vieille lighthouse.
For a heavenly getaway, head for the Glénan archipelago. Its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches will make you forget you're in Brittany. It's the ideal place for water sports or just relaxing in the sun.
The unspoilt hinterland
Away from the coast, Finistère reveals a more secret side. Immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of the Huelgoat forest, dotted with huge granite boulders. Legend has it that these rocks were thrown down by the giant Gargantua. Explore the "Chaos", an impressive pile of rocks, and discover the "Devil's Cave" and the "Mushroom", surprisingly shaped rock formations.
The Monts d'Arrée offer breathtaking views over the moors and peat bogs. This unique landscape, often shrouded in mist, is the setting for many Breton legends. Climb Mont Saint-Michel in Brasparts for a breathtaking view of the whole region. Hikers will love the many footpaths that criss-cross this unspoilt region.
Don't miss a visit to the charming village of Locronan, frozen in time with its 17th-century stone houses. Rated one of the most beautiful villages in France, Locronan will win you over with its remarkably well-preserved architecture and medieval atmosphere. Stroll along its cobbled streets, admire its elegant granite houses and discover its rich heritage of craftsmanship.
Maritime heritage
The Finistère Concarneau boasts a rich maritime heritage that bears witness to its centuries-old maritime history. Explore the fortified port of Concarneau and its medieval walled town, a veritable architectural gem. Take a stroll along the ramparts, which offer a breathtaking view of the fishing port and surrounding islands. Visit the Fishing Museum to understand the importance of this activity in the local economy.
In Douarnenez, the Port-Musée retraces the history of fishing and sailing. Climb aboard restored traditional boats and discover ancestral fishing techniques. The museum also features interactive exhibitions that will appeal to young and old alike.
For lovers of military architecture, Brest Castle is well worth a visit, with its 1700 years of history. This imposing fortress, now home to the Musée National de la Marine, bears witness to Brest's strategic importance over the centuries. Explore its towers, ramparts and underground passageways, and admire the panoramic view over Brest harbour from its terraces.
Gastronomy and local know-how
Your trip wouldn't be complete without sampling some of the local specialities for which Brittany is famous. Savour the delicious crêpes and galettes, true emblems of the region. Whether sweet or savoury, these fine pancakes will delight you at any time of day. Pair them with a glass of fresh, sparkling local cider for an authentic taste experience.
Taste seafood freshly caught in the small ports of Finistère. Oysters from the Brest harbour, langoustines from Loctudy, or the famous blue lobster from Brittany: seafood lovers will be delighted. Don't hesitate to visit the local markets to discover the wealth of local Finistère produce.
Finistère is also renowned for its exceptional crafts. Don't forget to bring back a few souvenirs, such as Quimper earthenware, recognisable by its traditional Breton motifs, or brightly-coloured Breton ceramics. You can also find beautiful fabrics such as Locronan linen and the famous Breton marinières.
Outdoor activities
Finistère is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. The coastline offers a wealth of opportunities for water sports. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, you'll find something to suit you: surfing at La Torche, kitesurfing in the Bay of Audierne, or sailing in the harbour at Brest.
If you're a keen walker, the customs trail (GR34) will take you through some of the region's most beautiful coastal landscapes. This long-distance hiking trail runs along the entire Finistère coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and islands.
Cyclists will not be outdone by the many signposted routes, such as the Vélodyssée, which runs along the coast of France. Atlantic coast. It's an original, environmentally-friendly way to discover the region at your own pace.
Finistère is bursting with natural and cultural treasures just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a lover of wild nature, history or gastronomy, you're sure to find what you're looking for in this corner of the Breton world. The diversity of the landscape, the rich heritage and the warmth of the Breton welcome make Finistère a destination of choice for unforgettable holidays.
So go ahead, get your luggage and set off on an adventure in this land of legends. From north to south, from coast to inland, every day will be filled with discovery and wonder. Finistère awaits you for a unique experience, between land and sea, where nature and culture blend harmoniously to create an unforgettable Breton symphony.