Seven days in southern Brittany

Carnac is known throughout the world for its unique rows of ancient standing stones. The town is split into two areas: Carnac-Ville, where you’ll find the Museum of Prehistory, and Carnac-Plage, a family seaside resort with a state-of-the-art thalassotherapy centre. Oyster farming is big business.

Lorient, a relatively new town founded in the 17th century, has fragments of world history intermingled with its heritage and landscapes. Its houses, beaches and quays tell tales of the conquest of India and the East Indies, deep sea fishing, the Second World War, the growing popularity of ocean racing and the restored pride of the Celtic nations.

As well as being France’s third most important fishing port, Concarneau has other assets that make it a very popular summer resort. The main draw is the quaint ville close (walled town) followed by some lovely sandy beaches and a lively maritime festival in August.

Douarnenez is an attractive town on the coast with no fewer than four harbours! Soak up the unique atmosphere of its bustling quaysides and its narrow streets with their craft workshops and fishermen’s cottages. Then fill your lungs with sea air and enjoy the walk to Plomarch, the beautiful bay, the beaches just a stone’s throw away, and the isle of Tristan.

The Crozon peninsula, shaped like a gigantic cross in the Iroise sea, sums up the essence of Brittany. The landscape shifts from spectacular cliff scenery to heather-covered moorland, then to deep blue sea and beautiful beaches. The pretty little ports of Camaret and Morgat are the starting point for voyages of discovery.

Not only is Quimper the administrative capital of the Finistère department, it is also generally regarded as the cultural heart of Brittany. The town is known for its cathedral, atmospheric old quarter and museums but most of all for its annual festival celebrating Breton culture.