Situated 17km south of Quimper, between Pont l’Abbé and Concarneau, Fouesnant is an excellent starting point for visiting western Brittany.
La Cornouaille, in South Finistère, has vast natural spaces open to you, and a wealth of colourful folk traditions.
Bathed in sea and light, South Finistère is a little paradise for artists, sports enthusiasts and all lovers of beauty and great food. Here are a few suggestions for places to discover during your visit :
1 - Pays Bigouden
Once you pass over the pont de Cornouaille at Bénodet, you find yourself in the Pays Bigouden. Opposite the port of Bénodet and accessible by small ferry in the summer, the little port of Sainte-Marine is quite charming. This is a land of character and tradition.
It is famous for its headdress, 36 cm high and worn by the Bigoudènes! Strolling along the coast, you’ll marvel at the power of nature and be amazed by the beauty and authenticity of the landscapes.
Surfing fans won’t want to miss the legendary spot at the Pointe de la Torche. In this land of fishermen, the four ports in the Pays Bigouden – Saint-Guénolé-Penmarc’h, Le Guilvinec, Lesconil and Loctudy – come alive every day with a curious ritual.
Around 6am when the deep-sea fishing boats are unloaded, then again at around 4.30pm when the inshore fishing boats return: it’s time for the fish auction.
2 - Quimper, capital of Cornouaille
Travel up the Odet to Quimper and its town centre, just 17 km from Fouesnant. Listed as a Town of Art and History, Quimper has a few gems up its sleeve. Stroll through the medieval town with its 16th and 17th century timber-framed houses, visit Saint-Corentin Cathedral, a jewel in Breton Gothic art, the 19th century flower-bedecked footbridges, the museums, the district of Locmaria and its famous Henriot-Quimper ceramics factory.
La Pointe du Raz: the End of the Earth
Around one hour from Fouesnant, the Cap-Sizun peninsula gives you a taste of wild Brittany in an unspoilt setting.
White sandy beaches on the south coast, spectacular views over the Iroise Sea and the island of Sein are just some of the wonders to discover.
The pointe du Raz and pointe du Van headlands to the west and finally, the rugged, unspoilt cliffs to the north coast are all worth a visit.
Your trip to Cap-Sizun will be a unique experience! In this gigantic playground, choose your preferred atmosphere: Sea or land? In a such a spectacular setting, carved and polished by incessant storms of sea spray, you can’t help but be moved by this region, which has built ports and maritime infrastructure all along its coastline. So treat yourself to a trip to the ends of the earth!
4 - Concarneau
Around ten kilometres from Fouesnant via the coastal road,
Concarneau is a town of Art and History, a major fishing port and a seaside resort.
The heart of the town called the Ville Close is surrounded by fortifications, is well worth a stroll through the past and its shop-filled streets.
The walk along the cornice offers a breathtaking view of the Baie de la Forêt, from the pointe de Beg Meil to La Forêt-Fouesnant via Cap Coz.
5 -Locronan
Listed as a Historic Monument since 1924, Locronan is one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” and has been awarded the label of “Petite Cité de Caractère de Bretagne”.
With houses dating from the 15th to 18th centuries, Locronan is a tourist destination in its own right. The charm of this small town, combined with its tourist appeal, has attracted many artists and craftspeople. Artists’ workshops and galleries in the streets and squares are open to visitors.
6 - Pont Aven
Charming little town 40 minutes from Fouesnant. A treat for the eyes and the taste buds with its famous Pont-Aven galettes. Wander through the green valley dotted with rocks, washhouses and mills. In the summer, guided tours are available on the river Aven, and there are many galleries and artists.
The area is rich in colourful architectural heritage. You’ll soon understand why Paul Gauguin, Sérusier and other artists chose this resort. Pont Aven and the Crozon Peninsula
7-THE CROZON PENINSULA
The Crozon peninsula boasts an extraordinary range of landscapes, from steep cliffs to fine sandy beaches. There are also secret coves, majestic headlands and capes such as the Tas de Pois and the Pointe de Dinan… The GR34 and many other footpaths are the best ways to discover the natural wealth and heritage of the Crozon peninsula. So many wonders to be discovered just 1 hour from Fouesnant!
8-THE MONTS D'ARREE, IN THE HEART OF THE FINISTERE
During your stay in Fouesnant, curiosity may tempt you away from the coast, and the Monts d’Arrée will reveal some surprising landscapes. In the heart of the Armorique Regional Nature Park, these hills will immerse you in the Celtic imagination and its legends.
The scenery is breathtaking. Moors, heather, peat bogs and rocky ridges merge as far as the eye can see. Visit the Youdig (spring) at Mont-Saint-Michel, climb Tuchenn Kador, climb Roc’h Trevezel and contemplate the breathtaking views over the Léon region.
Soak up the legends on a storytelling walk, or wander through the chaotic granite-strewn scenery: there are so many ways to get to grips with this magical land. Change of scenery guaranteed!
