Visit Concarneau - guide to the best sites and activities
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Discover Concarneau, pearl of Finistère and jewel of BrittanyWhere maritime history, exceptional heritage and gastronomy come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a cultural adventure, a moment of relaxation by the sea, or a plunge into the heart of Breton tradition, Concarneau will meet all your expectations. This guide will take you on a tour of Concarneau's must-sees, with practical tips for a memorable trip.
The emblematic Ville Close, a 15th-century citadelis the beating heart of Concarneau. Explore its cobbled streets, historic houses, the Musée de la pêche, the Chateau de Keriolet, and admire the breathtaking view over the bay. Taste local delicacies such as kouign amann or typical crêpes in this historic setting.
Concarneau is also an invitation to the pleasures of the sea, with its fine sandy beaches, varied water sports activities, and the chance to explore the Glénan Islands. Don't forget to visit the surrounding area, such as Pont-Aven or the Fouesnant forest, for a complete immersion in Breton beauty.
Finally, take part in local festivities, such as the Filets Bleus festivala vibrant tribute to maritime heritage, or thee Livre & Mer, celebration of maritime literature. Stop by the Concarneau Tourist Office in Pont-Aven for more ideas on what not to miss.
Discover the historic charm of Concarneau
Known for its remarkable historical heritage, Concarneau embodies the richness of its maritime past and its strategic role of yesteryear. The must-sees include three emblematic sites: the Ville Close, the Château de Keriolet, and the Fishing Museumeach shining with interest and beauty.
La Ville Close: a fortified jewel
At the heart of Concarneau lies the Ville Close, a fortified town built on an island and connected to the mainland by a bridge. Created in the 15th century and redesigned by the architect Vauban in the 17th century, it offers an authentic and picturesque setting. Visitors will discover cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, the church of Saint-Guénolé, the chapel of l'HôpitalThey can admire the bay from the ramparts. It's also the perfect place to enjoy local specialties such as kouign amann, far breton and crêpes.
Château de Keriolet: a dive into local history
A short distance from Beuzec-Conq, the neo-Gothic Château de Kerioletstands proudly. It was erected in the 19th century by Count Charles de Chauveau and his wife, Princess Zénaïde Youssoupoff, the product of an astonishing marriage between France and Russia. Their efforts transformed a 13th-century residence into a a 19th-century architectural masterpiece. Visitors are invited to explore its sumptuous rooms, including the guardroom, dining room, library and chapel.
The Fishing Museum: Concarneau's maritime soul
Located in the former arsenal on Rue Vauban in the Ville Close, The Musée de la Pêche captures the maritime essence of Concarneau through an exceptional collection dedicated to the history of fishing. Real boats, models, aquariums, showcases and videos recount the evolution of this activity since ancient times. The highlight of the visit is the Hémérica, a trawler moored to the museum quay, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the life of fishermen at sea.
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Must-see outdoor activities in Concarneau
Concarneau appeals to nature and outdoor adventure enthusiasts with its wide range of activities: from walks and water sports to hiking and relaxing on the beach. Here are a few ideas to enhance your experience
Walks and hikes: the GR34 and the Corniche de Concarneau
Walking enthusiasts will be delighted in Concarneau, thanks in particular to the GR34. This mythical trail runs along the Brittany coast, exploring a wide variety of landscapes: beaches, cliffs, harbours and islands. It will take you through emblematic sites such as Ville Close, Pointe du Cabellou, Plage des Sables Blancs, Pointe de Trévignon and even to the town of Pont-Aven.
The Corniche of ConcarneauAnother walking option is the "Sables Blancs" path, which takes you along the sea from the marina to the Sables Blancs beach. Enjoy breathtaking views over the bay, the Ville Close and Les Glénan, while discovering the benches, playgrounds and green spaces along the way.
Concarneau's beaches: from idleness to water sports
Concarneau's sandy beaches invite you to relax and enjoy a wide range of water sports. The Sables Blancs beach is famous for its immaculate sand and crystal-clear waters, and also boasts a nautical base for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and surfing.
Other beaches, such as Cornouaille, the closest to the center, Belle Etoile, surrounded by pine trees, and Kernous, an unspoilt cove, are also well worth a visit.
Of course, you can also go to one of the most beautiful beaches in France. Fouesnant to discover new horizons.
The Marinarium: discover marine biodiversity
The Marinarium is an essential stop-off point for lovers of underwater life. Part of the world's oldest marine biology station still in operation, this center offers exhibitions, events and aquariums to explore marine life, both local and exotic.
he 120,000-liter tank, populated by sea bass, pollack, crustaceans and molluscs, is a particularly fascinating place to visit.
Cultural experiences and festivities in Concarneau
Concarneau, with its constant dynamism, invites visitors to discover a wide range of events and activities throughout the year. Whether your passion lies in music, dance, literature or gastronomy, Concarneau offers a multitude of opportunities to entertain and enrich your cultural experience. Discover below some of the must-do activities for a cultural and festive adventure in Concarneau.
The Filets Bleus festival: immersion in Breton tradition
Founded in 1905 to support struggling fishermen during the sardine crisis, the Festival des Filets Bleus is the oldest festival in Brittany, if not France. Today, it is a celebration of Concarneau's maritime and cultural heritage, offering a variety of concerts, shows, parades, exhibitions, entertainment and tasting opportunities.
Held in August, this festival takes place along the quays at the foot of the Ville Close. The Sunday parade is the highlight, bringing together over 2,000 participants in traditional costumes.
Boat trip: explore the shores
From Concarneau, embark on a boat trip and discover the wonders of the shores of Southern Brittany. Sea excursions to exquisite destinations are offered by several companies. Imagine sailing to the Glénan islandsWith their crystal-clear waters, you can swim, stroll or visit the famous nautical center. You can also imagine sailing around Bénodetto change your habits a little.
The Aven and Bélon rivers, offering picturesque cruises through lush green landscapes and charming villages such as Pont-Aven, are also perfect choices. A one-hour cruise on the Popeye4, a boat as bright as the sun, will allow you to admire the bay of Concarneau, the fishing port, the shipyards, the Ville Close, and the Pointe du Cabellou.
Guided tour of the walled city and surrounding area
For those wishing to delve deeper into Concarneau's history and heritage, a guided tour in the company of a guide-lecturer, accredited by the French Ministry of Culture, is a must. Enjoy enriching information and fascinating anecdotes about the Ville Close, its architecture, monuments and secrets.
The tour also includes access to some of the fortifications, offering spectacular views of the bay and marina. These tours, lasting approximately an hour and a half, are available every Sunday at 3 p.m., outside the summer season.
Conclusion
Concarneau is an unmissable destination for those wishing to discover the riches of Brittany.. Its historical heritage, magnificent landscapes, delicious gastronomy and vibrant culture promise an unforgettable experience. Among the must-sees, the Ville Close stands out as a 15th-century fortified treasure, while the Château de Keriolet marvels at its neo-Gothic elegance, and the Musée de la Pêche offers a fascinating insight into Concarn's maritime history.
Nature lovers will be delighted by the fine sandy beaches, such as Sables Blancs, and the endless possibilities for walks and hikes along the GR34 or the Corniche de Concarneau. Boat trips to the Glénan islands or along the Aven or Bélon rivers are also memorable experiences. And don't forget to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere by taking part in events such as the Filets Bleus festival, celebrating Breton culture, or the Livre & Mer festival, dedicated to maritime literature.
It's time to plan your trip to Concarneau and experience these discoveries for yourself. An enchanting stay awaits you in this town of many charms. You won't regret it!
FAQ
Where to go for a walk in Concarneau?
Concarneau offers a wide range of activities. Explore the Ville Close, a magnificent fortified city on an island. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the enchanting islands of the Glénan archipelago. Lovers of relaxation and water sports will find plenty to do on the local beaches. Don't miss a visit to the fishing museum, the fascinating marinarium or the elegant Château de Keriolet. Don't hesitate to ask on the Concarneau marine spafor a moment of well-being.
Why is Concarneau called the Blue City?
Concarneau's reputation as the "blue city" has its origins in the historic use of blue fishing nets by local fishermen. This technique, designed to deceive the sardines with a color that blends in with that of the sea, has left its mark on the town's culture and history. The Fête des Filets Bleus, an event celebrating this tradition, underlines the importance of this heritage.
What's Concarneau known for?
Concarneau is renowned for its Ville Close, a remarkable medieval fortified town that is one of Brittany's most popular attractions. In addition, the town is renowned for its vibrant fishing port, ranked first in Europe for tuna fishing and third in Franceadding to its prestige and appeal.
What's market day in Concarneau?
Concarneau's traditional market is held every Friday morning, from 7.30am to 1.30pm. Over 200 traders offer a variety of food and non-food products, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. The market runs from the halles to the marina, offering an authentic experience of local life.
