Lorient
Located in the Morbihan at BrittanyLorient, a port city, is renowned for its vast maritime, cultural and historical heritage. This city invites you to explore its many attractions, including five distinct ports, the renowned Interceltic Festival, an impressive citadel, the Compagnie des Indes museum, the Flore submarine and many other gems.
This ultimate guide aims to take you on a journey through Lorient, immersing you in its fascinating history marked by periods of prosperity and desolation, from its foundation by the East India Company to its post-World War II renaissance.
Discover Lorient's must-see cultural treasures, including the Interceltic Festival, a flagship event that attracts thousands of Celtic music and dance aficionados every year. You'll also be invited to take part in exciting activities and enriching experiences that will enhance your stay in Lorient, whether it's sailing, fishing, hiking or savoring the local gastronomy.
Dive into Lorient's history
The origins of the town and its development over the centuries
Founded in 1666 following the granting of land by Louis XIV to the French East India Company at Le Faouédic, Lorient rapidly expanded through maritime trade with Asia, Africa and the West Indies.
It established itself as France's leading port for spices, cloth, coffee and sugar, and went through a dark period with the slave trade.
As early as 1688, Lorient also took on a military dimension, with the installation of an arsenal by the Royal Navy for the construction and fitting out of ships. This arsenal was at the origin of numerous naval vessels, including the first French battleships.
Conflicts such as the Seven Years' War, the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars had a profound effect on the city's economy and population.
Maritime heritage and the legacy of the Compagnie des Indes
Lorient is a city that has preserved many elements of its rich maritime and colonial past. Among the most remarkable is the Port-Louis citadel, guarding the entrance to the Lorient roadstead. Today, it houses the Musée de la Marine and the Musée de la Compagnie des Indes, dedicated to the history and legacy of the Compagnie des Indes, a pillar of prosperity for the town and its shipowners.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of artefacts, maps, models and costumes from Asia, Africa and America.
With its five ports, Lorient illustrates the diversity of its maritime activities, from the fishing port of Keroman, a leader in Europe, to the yachting, commercial and military ports, not forgetting the passenger port. Highlights include the Flore submarine, on display at the Musée Sous-Marin du Pays de Lorient, and the Éric Tabarly sailboat, a tribute to the famous yachtsman.
World War II bunkers and the Keroman submarine base
Lorient experienced tragic times during the Second World War, when it was almost destroyed by Allied bombing in early 1943, following the establishment by the Germans of the largest submarine base at the time on the Keroman peninsula.
This installation, comprising three gigantic bunkers, housed the U-Boote fleet, posing a serious threat to Allied convoys in the Atlantic.
Indestructible to assault, the Keroman base was not liberated until the German surrender in May 1945. The site has been transformed into a place of remembrance and culture, offering exhibitions, concerts and guided tours. Since 2000, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Atlantic Wall.
Lorient's cultural highlights
The Festival Interceltique de Lorient: an annual highlight
For Celtic music and dance fans, the Festival Interceltique de Lorient is a must-see event every August. Launched in 1971, this major event attracts artists and spectators from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Galicia, Asturias, Cornwall and the Isle of Man.
For ten days, immerse yourself in a world of concerts, shows, parades, events, exhibitions and conferences dedicated to Celtic culture. You'll also have the opportunity to taste Celtic gastronomic specialities and learn about the Breton language. The festival culminates in the Great Parade of Celtic Nations, with over 3,000 musicians and dancers taking to the streets of Lorient.
The Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly and discover the world of ocean racing
The Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly, located in Lorient la Base, is an essential stop-off point for sailing enthusiasts. This interactive museum offers a fascinating immersion into the world of ocean racing, with exhibitions, simulations, workshops and films. Admire legendary boats such as Éric Tabarly's Pen Duick VI and Franck Cammas' Groupama 3.
You can also try your hand at sailing by taking part in an outing accompanied by professionals.
The Compagnie des Indes Museum and the Underwater Museum
If you're curious about Lorient's history and heritage, the Musée de la Compagnie des Indes and the Musée sous-marin, both located in the Port-Louis citadel, are a must-see. The Musée de la Compagnie des Indes transports you back to the glorious days when Lorient was France's leading port for trade with Asia, Africa and the West Indies, thanks to a collection of artifacts, maps, models and costumes.
The Underwater Museum invites you to discover the fascinating world of maritime archaeology, with objects from shipwrecks, accounts of sea rescues and reconstructions of underwater scenes.
Activities and experiences to enrich your stay
Walks and city tours in Lorient
Explore Lorient by foot, bike or segway and choose from a wide range of city walks and tours. Discover the city's picturesque neighborhoods, historic monuments, dynamic murals and fascinating anecdotes. The heritage tour will take you on a journey through the history of the Compagnie des Indes, the arsenal and reconstruction. For urban art lovers, the street art circuit offers a panorama of works by local and international artists. For an enriching experience, let yourself be guided by an audioguide or mobile app recounting Lorient's history and secrets.
Parks, gardens and green spaces: breathing and relaxing
Lorient, a green city, boasts numerous parks, gardens and green spaces, perfect for breathing and relaxing. Visit Parc Jules Ferry, with its lawns, majestic trees, children's play areas and bandstand. Don't miss the Jardin des Plantes, featuring exotic, Mediterranean and tropical plants, a greenhouse and a magnificent rose garden. And don't miss the Etang du Ter, ideal for hikers, with its paths, picnic areas, water sports and bird sanctuary.
Discover the local gastronomy and markets of Lorient
Lorient, a city of gourmet delights, invites you to explore the culinary delights of Brittany. Enjoy the famous crêpes, kouign-amann, far breton, as well as cider and chouchen. Seafood such as oysters, mussels, langoustines, sardines and lobster will delight the palate. Also discover seaweed cheeses, craft beers, chocolates and salted butter caramels. Visit Lorient's colorful and lively markets, including the famous Marché de Merville, open on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, with over 200 stands selling fresh, local and organic produce.
Conclusion
Lorient, with its rich maritime heritageopens doors to history, culture, nature and gastronomy. As you explore this city, you can delve into its colonial past, appreciate its military importance, and share its passion for sailing. Its Interceltic Festival is an invitation to celebrate the diverse Celtic cultures, thrilling you to the rhythm of captivating traditions.
The city offers a multitude of activities and experiences: from relaxing strolls to gourmet delights, Lorient knows how to charm visitors with its dynamism, authenticity and unique charm.
Don't miss the opportunity to discover Lorient. Book your stay now and let yourself be seduced by everything this exceptional city has to offer. It's an experience you'll never forget!
FAQ
Is Lorient a beautiful city?
Indeed, Lorient is admired for its many attractions. Recognized as a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" as well as a "Sites et cités remarquables", the town also stands out as one of the most pleasant places to live in France. Its pleasant surroundings, nestled between sea and river, are a special feature.
Where to go for a walk in Lorient?
Lorient offers a variety of escapades for walkers. Depending on your preferences, visit the Cité de la Voile Eric Tabarly for an immersion in the world of sailing and ocean racing, or discover the island of Groix, a natural gem with varied landscapes and splendid beaches.
Which district to visit in Lorient?
In Lorient, the recommended neighborhoods to visit are Centre-Ville, Université-Blum and Merville. They boast a rich historical heritage, a strong maritime culture, a dynamic commercial life and a warm atmosphere.
What was Lorient called before?
Historically, Lorient was known as An Oriant, Breton for "the east". This name echoes its strategic position, facing east and east, close to the island of Groix and the river Blavet.
