guide
An overview of the highlights of Finistère: the Pointe du Millier, Pont-Aven and its school of painting, Quimper and its Saint-Corentin cathedral, Concarneau, Roscoff and Locronan. The article also details water sports activities (sailing, catamaran, surfing), diving sites and local cuisine, for planning a campsite stay in this Breton department.
Planning a stay in the Finistère? Discover our suggestions for planning your travel itinerary. We also recommend looking for cheap campsites for your accommodation.
Standing majestically opposite the Crozon peninsula, the Pointe du Millier is an unmissable natural site. The access path runs along various hiking trails. You’ll reach the lighthouse by venturing through chestnut trees and black locust trees. If you’re a painting enthusiast, a stop in Pont-Aven is a must. This artistic and cultural centre is best known for its school of painting. It’s worth remembering that Paul Gauguin was a master there. Also consider a detour to Quimper. This historic city is dubbed a “Town of Art and History”. It’s known for its half-timbered houses and its footbridges. Don’t hesitate to also visit the majestic Saint-Corentin Cathedral.
It’s important to include Concarneau in your travel plans. The walled town reflects the full richness of its historical heritage. Also stop by Roscoff to enjoy every facet of this exceptional seaside resort. Wander past the shipowners’ houses to discover the typical architecture of this town. Likewise, its sumptuous sandy beaches invite you to enjoy a refreshing swim. In Locronan, you’ll be charmed by the houses built from bluish granite, distinctive with their slate roofs. This village was founded back in the 10th century. What’s more, this particularly charming spot has inspired filmmakers such as Jean-Pierre Jeunet, who shot his famous romantic drama A Very Long Engagement there.
If you visit the Finistère during summer, you’re sure to be interested in water sports. Give in to the call of the open sea and explore the many beaches of this Breton region. You can try your hand at sailing and catamaran sailing in the Bay of Douarnenez, accompanied by a guide. Likewise, several surf schools offer introductory lessons. It’ll be a fantastic opportunity to take on the waves at La Palue beach or La Torche beach.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, the Finistère is packed with well-known diving sites. It’s an activity that will reveal to you the full richness of marine flora and fauna. You’ll come across small-spotted catsharks, ocean sunfish and even seals. Visiting the Finistère also means discovering the local cuisine. You’ll be able to enjoy the region’s delicious specialities. Whether seafood dishes or pastries, Breton cuisine promises you exquisite flavours. Explore the flavour nuances of Kig Ha Farz. This is a stew made with buckwheat flour and a pudding cooked in a cloth bag. We should also mention kouign-amann. This buttery cake is a dish to share with friends or family. Finally, it’s unthinkable to visit the Finistère without trying the crispy Breton galettes.
To make your stay truly memorable, opt for accommodation right in the heart of nature. Indeed, you’ll find numerous best-priced campsites in the Finistère.
This artistic and cultural hub is known for its school of painting, of which Paul Gauguin was one of the masters.
La Palue beach and La Torche beach are among the most renowned spots, with several schools offering introductory lessons.
This village, founded in the 10th century, is known for its bluish granite houses with slate roofs. It featured as the setting for the film A Very Long Engagement.
Kig Ha Farz, a stew made with buckwheat flour, kouign-amann and Breton galettes are among the region's culinary highlights.
