1. Petit Minou lighthouse in Plouzané
Facing the Crozon peninsula, the Petit Minou lighthouse stands on a rocky point jutting out into the bay. At 34 meters above sea level, it marks the entrance to the Brest Narrows.
To get there, you have to cross a stone bridge. Depending on the tide and the weather, the waves can lap at your feet as you cross. A visit to the lighthouse is possible in summer, after contacting booking at theTourist Office.
Le Petit Minou is one of the "paradise" lighthouses, because of its location on the coast, as opposed to the "hell" lighthouses in the open sea. These names refer to the situation of the keepers before the automation of the lighting systems. There's nothing fanciful about the lighthouse's name, which finds its meaning in the Breton language, where "Min", meaning mouth, becomes "minou" in the plural.
If you'd like to learn more about these ship-guiding tours, you can also follow the Lighthouse Route itinerary.
2. Daoulas Abbey
The Abbaye de Daoulas is one of the must-see historic sites and monuments around Brest. It was built in the 12th century by Canons Regular of the Order of Saint Augustine. It has preserved its abbey church from the same period, as well as a Romanesque cloister, a fountain and a 16th-century oratory.
In addition to its architectural heritage,Daoulas Abbey is also renowned for its gardens.
The "jardin des simples " has been awarded the "jardin remarquable" label. As for the trail of medicinal plants from five continents, it was recently awarded a gold medal at the "Victoires du paysage" awards. From April onwards, the gardens of Daoulas Abbey lend themselves particularly well to photographic walks.
3. The Crozon peninsula
The Presqu'île de Crozon is located in the Armorique regional nature park, opposite Brest. A gentle, wild escape where different landscapes mingle. Hike along trails, including the famous GR34, through heather moorland before coming face to face with sheer cliffs. At other, more sheltered spots, you'll discover coves with turquoise waters.
Finally, the Maison des Minéraux should delight geoscience enthusiasts with its permanent exhibitions on the geology of the Crozon Peninsula, the rocks and minerals of the Armorican Massif, the landscapes of Finistère and fluorescent minerals.
4. Plougastel and its strawberry museum
The town of Plougastel offers a wide choice of activities. The peninsula boasts several small ports and pebble beaches, as well as dozens of kilometers of coastal paths.
Inland, the town boasts 8 16th-century chapels. The town's calvary, with its 181 kersantite statues, has been a listed monument for over a century.
Finally, don't leave Plougastel without visiting the Musée de la Fraise et du Patrimoine. This little fruit has been the town's emblem since the 18th century. The strawberry has become the town's red gold. In addition to the history of the strawberry, the museum also showcases Breton heritage, with one of the finest collections of traditional costumes in Finistère.
5. Breizh Odyssée in Landévennec
Located in Landévennec, Breizh Odyssée is a museum where you can discover the history and culture of Bretagne. The site features 4 immersive visit areas. The history of the region and of the Armorican peninsula is highlighted in the museographic center, which retraces the different periods from Neolithic times to the present day.
The Bretagne legends trail plunges visitors into the local imagination through Celtic tales and bestiaries. An exhibition and discussion area is devoted to current issues facing the region between land and sea: the environment, the economy, new technologies... The final world features temporary thematic exhibitions designed to showcase the region's key players.
6. Ushant Island
If you can spare the time, set off to discover the island of Ouessant. It's just 8 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, yet from one end to the other you'll be amazed by its many facets.
The south coast is very green, while the north is more rugged and wild. The best mode of transport on the island is by bike, to discover Ouessant's 4 points and 5 lighthouses. From the top of the Kadoran cliffs, the scenery has an air of Ireland about it, while the Porz Doun headland is much greener.
As for the fauna, Ouessant is home to a colony of grey seals, numerous seabirds and several hives ofblack bees.
7. La Biscuiterie de la Pointe Saint-Mathieu
It would be a shame to leave Bretagne without tasting its culinary specialties. The Biscuiterie de la Pointe Saint-Mathieu perpetuates the artisanal tradition of making kouign amann and other Breton cakes. Come and sample plain, caramel and salted butter galettes and palets... A whole range of local products accompanies these sweet treats.
Book your flight with Chalair to discover the area around Brest and explore the diversity of this maritime region. When you return, take the opportunity to bring back some typical regional products in your checked luggage.