Rich in an outstanding architectural heritage, Quimper is a City of Art and History that is both surprising and captivating. Cultural, maritime, precious, gastronomic and sportive, the capital of Finistère is one of the jewels of Brittany.
Located on the flowery banks of the Odet river in the magnificent Cornwall region, Quimper, a former small port city, is today of major importance in the Breton landscape. A thousand-year-old city, Quimper is divided into several major historical areas. At first, you will have to visit the primitive site, in the Locmaria district. From the south to the center of Quimper, this historic district borders the banks of the Odet. Its medieval garden on the water's edge is absolutely magnificent and its old priory is worth a visit, as is its superb 18th century Romanesque church. Typical of Breton Romanesque architecture, the church of Notre-Dame is one of the highlights of your visit: built during the 12th century, it can be visited as well as its cloister located in the gardens of the presbytery. In addition to its unique architecture, this district is the birthplace of the famous Quimper earthenware factory: renowned throughout the world for its finesse and beauty, it is the pride of the city's inhabitants who have been perpetuating this precious know-how for generations. While walking in Quimper, you will find many stores where you can buy earthenware, and while strolling on rue Bousquet, you will be able to visit the museum of the Faïencerie, as well as the Henriot faïencerie. The bishops' district is also worth a visit: it is there that you can see the magnificent Saint-Corentin cathedral, a true jewel of Breton Gothic art with a rare beauty. Built at the beginning of the 13th century, it will impress you by its dimensions, its high vaults and its magnificent stained glass windows. Impressive during the day, we advise you to observe it also at night, when its facade is illuminated, especially at the time of the end of the year celebrations. Just next door, the former Episcopal Palace is also worth a visit, as much for its architecture as for the departmental museum of Breton art that it houses today. Cultural capital of Brittany, Quimper is home to an impressive Museum of Fine Arts, established in an Italian-style palace. We advise you to visit it if you are an art lover, its superb collections are worth the detour.
Surrounded by ramparts, the city center of Quimper (also called the Dukes of Brittany district) is recognizable by its magnificent half-timbered houses, so characteristic of the city's history. Whether half-timbered or corbelled, Quimper's houses stand along the cobbled alleys of this former capital of Cornwall. Along the quiet squares of this city of character, you will come across many flowered footbridges spanning the Odet and the Steïr rivers, both of which flow through Quimper. Cross the Place Terre au Duc, the streets Guéodet and Kéréon (pedestrian), the famous rue du Chapeau-Rouge, take the "venelle du Poivre" and take the time to rest by pushing the door of a typical Breton pub, or of a crêperie where you will be able to taste tasty traditional pancakes and crepes. "La Cantine des Chefs", "La Crêperie du Quartier", "Le Ceili Pub" and "La Ferme de l'Odet" are among the good addresses to add to your list!
Watered by the Steïr and the Odet, considered by some as the most beautiful river in France, Quimper is a delight for both experienced and novice sailors. Whether you have a boating license or not, you will be able to discover the unique beauty of Quimper during boat excursions, in a traditional 19th century sailboat or in a speedboat, to the rhythm of the Odet's meanders. You can also go kayaking, sailing, rowing, paddling or canoeing, for a visit that is both fun and sportive. Passing by the shores of Plomelin, Gouesnach, Combrit and Bénodet, you can even reach some of the most beautiful beaches of the Finisterian coast. If however you would like to go on a sea excursion, then you will be able to discover some of the most beautiful sites of Southern Brittany, such as Concarneau and the Glénan Archipelago, a small almost exotic paradise, renowned for its white sand and its clear water to die for.
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