South Finistère is very beautiful thanks to its diverse landscapes, its fine sandy beaches, and the beauty of the sea that borders the region.
CITY OF CULTURE & HISTORY: QUIMPER
Quimper, the capital of Cornouaille, is a city renowned for its rich heritage and cultural wealth.
If we can give you one piece of advice, explore Quimper on foot.
Start your journey by strolling through Old Quimper (Rue Kéréon, Rue Treuz, Rue des Boucheries…), easily recognizable by its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. Take a detour via Place au Beurre, where you will find the highest concentration of crêperies in the city!
Finish at Place Saint-Corentin, where the cathedral of the same name stands. It is open to all visitors. On this same square, you will also find the Museum of Départemental Breton and the Museum of Fine Arts.
If you are lucky enough to visit between July 24th and 27th, 2025, you will be able to attend the Festival de Cornouaille. For the occasion, the historic heart of the city comes alive with entertainment, concerts, and competitions for the best bagadou (Breton pipe bands). Don’t miss the grand parade on Sunday, bringing together all the Celtic circles in traditional period costumes.
Must-sees during your stay in Quimper
The Henriot Faience Factory, originally from Quimper, whose craftsmanship is a true art form! Take the time to visit the shop and the workshops. And don’t leave without your personalized bol à oreilles (traditional Breton bowl with handles)!
Not to mention Armor Lux, the creator of the famous blue-and-white Breton striped shirt.
On your way out of Quimper, stop along the banks of the Odet River and visit the gardens of the castel of Lanniron—you won’t be disappointed!
Feeling peckish?
While in Old Quimper, stop by Philomène to buy macarons, or enjoy some kouignettes at Larnicol.
To enjoy the banks of the Odet, take a relaxing break on the terrace at Maison Kerogan.
For a more gastronomic experience, you can dine at Sao or Allium, a restaurant awarded a Michelin star.
FOUESNANT’S JEWEL:
THE GLENAN ARCHIPELAGO
Located 15 km from Fouesnant, the Glénan Archipelago is made up of 11 islands.
Fine white sand and turquoise waters create the perfect combination for a wonderful escape.
You can reach the Glénan Archipelago by taking the Vedettes de l’Odet boats. Choose the option that suits you best, and in just one hour, you’ll be there!
Fun fact: in the 18th century, the Glénan Archipelago was a hideout for privateers and pirates! Grab your shovel—you might just find a treasure during your island stopover.
Want to know more about the Glénan Islands?
In 1940, the sailing center and the international diving center were established, marking the beginning of the archipelago’s development.
Within the archipelago, you will find four main islands, the largest ones:
Saint-Nicolas: the main island, where you can enjoy a meal at La Boucane or Les Viviers des Glénan. This is also where the sailing center is located, perfect if you’d like to head out to sea on one of their boats or simply get an adrenaline rush.
Penfret: the highest island, located to the east, easily recognizable by its red-and-white lighthouse.
Le Loch: the largest island in the archipelago, but unfortunately inaccessible as it is privately owned.
La Cigogne: located in the heart of the archipelago, it stands out thanks to its fort built in the 18th century.
A must-see event in the Glénan Islands
Without a doubt, the Pardon of the Glénan Islands. It takes place on Sunday, September 7th, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
This event brings together all generations, who gather to take part in the celebrations, including the mass and the procession during which the sea is blessed in memory of sailors lost at sea.
TOWN OF CHARACTER : LOCRONAN
Locronan is undoubtedly a small and very pleasant town to visit—you immediately feel at home here. It has been awarded the labels “Petites Cités de Caractère” and “One of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.”
When you arrive in Locronan, you must park at the entrance of the town and explore it on foot. Take your time to enjoy the peace and the charm of the village.
As you stroll through Locronan, you will reach the town center, where Saint-Ronan Church stands proudly on the Grand Medieval Square—a true feast for the eyes!
If you are lucky enough to visit during Christmas, don’t miss the Christmas market and the festive illuminations.
Continuing your walk, you will come across the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Bonne Nouvelle, with its calvary and washhouse.
Take a few minutes to stop by the small art and craft shops to admire the works of well-known painters.
For beer lovers, you can taste the local brew at the Lokorn Brewery and why not take a few bottles home with you?
THE CITY OF ART: PONT-AVEN
Pont-Aven takes its name from the Aven River, which flows through the town.
Pont-Aven is a renowned artistic town, rich in culture and heritage, and is famously associated with Paul Gauguin, who was born here and studied at one of the town’s art schools.
In the town center, you will find many art galleries displaying beautiful paintings by well-known artists—some of whom were inspired by the town itself, and especially by the charming Port of Pont-Aven.
Speaking of the Port of Pont-Aven, you can board the Aven Bellon sightseeing boat and cruise down the Aven River while discovering its rich wildlife and natural scenery.
You can also choose a trip on the Bell’Aven, an electric boat offering a different way to explore the Aven River, taking you all the way to Port Manec’h.
Our favorite experience
For walking enthusiasts, take the Xavier Grall Promenade and follow the banks of the Aven River—a truly beautiful walk.
It’s impossible to talk about Pont-Aven without mentioning the Trémalo Chapel, famous in the art world and a source of inspiration for many painters of the time.
For food lovers
The Pont-Aven butter biscuit: a small, delicate biscuit with a rich buttery flavor, available at Traou Mad. One bite and you’ll fall in love—you’ll want to slip a box into your suitcase!
Gourmet break
Stop by Le Moulin de Rosmadec to enjoy their menu—a true culinary delight.
For those willing to venture a little further, we recommend Ar Men Du in Névez, a restaurant awarded a Michelin star.
HISTORICAL & CULTURAL HERITAGE: CONCARNEAU
The first place to visit in Concarneau is undoubtedly its Ville Close, the historic heart of the town. It is easily recognizable thanks to its belfry and sundial at the entrance. Step inside and take the time to explore it—walk along the ramparts and enjoy stunning views over Concarneau and its harbor. For those with a sweet tooth, stop by Auguste for a delicious ice cream.
Continue along the coastline to reach Plage des Sables Blancs, a beautiful sandy beach where you can enjoy swimming or simply relaxing in the sun.
An event not to be missed
If you visit Concarneau between August 13th and 17th, 2025, don’t miss the Fête des Filets Bleus, a celebration highlighting the culture, history, and heritage of Concarneau. You might even have the chance to witness the election of the Queen of the Filets Bleus, who represents the town at cultural events throughout the year.
Feeling peckish?
Stop by the tearoom De l’Autre Côté, where you can enjoy homemade dishes, a brunch, or simply a tea or coffee.
For a more gourmet break
We recommend La Coquille, a restaurant showcasing local cuisine made with high-quality regional ingredients.
REMARKABLE NATURAL SITE: POINTE DU RAZ
The Pointe du Raz is a must-see when visiting South Finistère.
This remarkable natural site, covering 2,000 hectares, offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Île de Sein, not to mention its iconic lighthouses: La Vieille and Tévennec, and on clear days, Ar Men.
Whether it’s windy or bathed in sunshine, the Pointe du Raz always delivers a spectacular and unforgettable landscape.
It is also worth noting that the GR34 coastal hiking trail passes through the Pointe du Raz, making it a perfect spot for walking and hiking enthusiasts.