France > France regions > Brittany > Finistere > Concarneau
Concarneau
Concarneau is found in the Finistere department of Brittany, on the south-west coast between Quimper and Lorient.
Along the rocky south coast of Brittany, Concarneau is the third largest fishing port in France (approximately 20,000 inhabitants) although tourism now plays a greater role in the economic life of the town.
For a glimpse of the past life of Concarneau, get up early and see the fish market in the town (starts 6 am). Then stay up late to see the ramparts illuminated at night, perhaps their most attractive time.
It is the old town - Ville Close, the old town on a rocky island a few metres off the coast in the harbour, and reached by a drawbridge, that is most interesting to visitors, with a main street lined by attractive buildings.
The fortifications around the Ville Close were already in place before Vauban substantially added to them in the 17th century, and you can now walk around the ramparts.
There is also a fishing museum in the old town, where you can learn more of the importance of the industry to the town's history.
The old town is rather given over to tourism (not unusual for picturesque towns in Brittany!)and can be a bit overbearing in the height of summer, but is well worth a visit all the same since it is very attractive - it is just 350 metres by 100 metres so there is not much space to squeeze everyone in!
. The town takes its 'Ville Fleurie' designation seriously and there was a positive explosion of flowers to be seen when we visited.
The indoor market is a good source of fish, fruit and vegetables if you are staying in this part of Brittany.
The new town is on the adjacent mainland, and there are also a couple of small beaches at Concarneau.
If possible, visit Concarneau during the last but one Sunday in August, when a colourful festival - the Festival of the Blue Nets - takes place.
The town is also the departure point for ferries to the nearby Glenan islands.
Concarneau: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
|
|
Plan a visit to Concarneau, France
Hotels Concarneau
Holiday rentals / travel
Property for sale Concarneau |
PV Holidays, Concarneau
|
Map of Concarneau, France |
Places to visit - Concarneau
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Concarneau.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Concarneau are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
- Ile Glenan Island at 20 km
- Quimper Breton town and region at 25 km
- Benodet Seaside resort at 22 km
Tourist Classifications for Concarneau
- Listed as "Ville d'Art et Histoire" (ie focus on preserving the town heritage)
Information and photos
This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Concarneau when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.
Find road directions to reach Concarneau
