Finistère Holiday Guide
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A unique and popular destination
Brittany is a very popular destination for British holidaymakers, but of all its departments, the westerly Finistère is possibly the least well known. Crashing waves, dramatic cliffs, undiscovered bays and the cries of a million seabirds are all part of the appeal of this unique department.
Top 5 things to see and do in Finistère
1. Oceanopolis
Whether or not you have the children along, a trip to the largest marine aquarium in Europe is never going to be a wasted trip. There is so much to see and learn here, through aquariums, films, displays and literature that you may wish to return more than once!
2. Go to the beach
Spending a blissful day beside the sea has to be one of the top things to do in a department that is so dominated by the sea! Some of the most beautiful, unspoilt beaches in France are found in Finistère, and there is a massive diversity too, with long, sandy stretches, wild rocky coves, plunging cliffs and surf beaches.
3. Eat seafood
Finistère produces over 25% of France's seafood, so it makes sense to make the most of this fact when in the department! It doesn't get better than to settle at an atmospheric restaurant in a port town like Concarneau, having seen the catch of the day arrive on the boats, be sold at the fish market and be brought almost straight to your plate.
4. Discover myths and mysteries
Finistère hides many secrets, and you won't have to look too far to find many myths, folk tales and mysterious places. Huelgoat, in the east of the department, offers its beautiful and deeply mysterious forest, scene of many legends and myths, where you can find King Arthur's cave, or touch the "trembling rock" among many other magical moments!
5. Attend a festival
Finistère takes its traditions very seriously, and attending one of the many festivals that take place around the department is a brilliant way to immerse yourself in the fascinating culture that binds Finistère to its past. Dates vary from year to year, but local tourist offices will have details of events.
Top 5 towns and cities in Finistère
1. Quimper
Quimper is Finistère's lovely mediaeval capital city, and its setting on two rivers adds to its charm. Wandering the narrow, twisting streets you will notice typical half-timbered houses, peaceful squares and a fabulous Gothic cathedral. The town also has a plentiful supply of good museums, and a colourful arts and traditions festival in July.
2. Concarneau
Concarneau is a lively fishing port, always interesting and perhaps the best possible place to go to eat seafood! There's a fortified town, standing upon its own little island, accessed by bridge, with some of its design being by the ultimate French military architect, Vauban. The old fortress is packed with gift shops, cafés and bars. Concarneau has a great fishing museum too, well worth a visit.
3. Brest
Brest is another town with a military form influenced by Vauban, although it is sad to say that although the castle survives today, much of the mediaeval town was destroyed during the last world war. However, Brest still has plenty to offer; it is here that you will find Oceanopolis, the fantastic sea life centre, great shopping and dining opportunities and a thriving port.
4. Roscoff
Roscoff is a very pleasant seaside town and port town, and can be a point of arrival in Finistère from the UK thanks to Brittany Ferries. Taking a drink or a meal down beside the old harbour is a delightful experience, while the town itself provides plenty of shops and other attractions such as tropical gardens and a beautiful church. There is even a thalassotherapy centre where you can experience this relaxing and refreshing treatment to make your holiday an unforgettable experience.
5. Locquirec
If you want beaches, then take a look at Locquirec. This seaside resort has no less than nine to choose from! Besides the usual seaside resort attractions like hotels, chamber d'hotes, seafood restaurants, cosy cafés and shops, Locquirec hosts some traditional Breton festivals which are well worth catching if you can. The town is also well situated for discovering nearby gems such as the lovely leisure lake, Lac Guerléden and the Château de Josselin.
Food and drink in Finistère
Finistère is noted, of course, for its superb seafood, of which there is a great variety. Anywhere you go in the department you are never far from the sea, and the fish and shellfish you will find here are as fresh as it gets! Other local specialties to try might include the sweetest of strawberries from Plougastel, or perhaps the distinctive buckwheat crepes with either sweet or savoury fillings and even a special drink made from fermented honey. Cider is popular in Finistère too, and is drunk as much as wine or beer, perhaps even more frequently.
How to get to Finistère
One of the best ways to get right into the heart of the area is to take a ferry to the port of Roscoff. If you prefer to fly, the nearest airport is at Brest and is served by Flybe and economy airline Ryanair.
