Lorient: a port city between culture, sweetness of life and discoveries
For a good trip to Brittany, only thirty minutes from Naéco Le Pouldu and Naéco Erdeven, Lorient welcomes you with its strong Breton character, its cultural richness and its maritime adventure airs. A city with a thousand facets, it perfectly combines modernity and heritage, nature and urbanity, activities and relaxation. Whether you are curious, dreamy, sporty or gourmet, you are bound to find what you are looking for.
Here is a complete guide to exploring Lorient:
From the first steps in the city centre, you can feel the heart of Lorient beating. The marina is the lungs of the lake. The quays are lively, punctuated by lively terraces and benches where you can linger. Sailboats glide over the water, seagulls punctuate the sky. It is the perfect spot to stroll in all simplicity. And if you're feeling peckish or want to bring back a local speciality, head to Les Halles de Merville: a typical Breton covered market, full of fresh products and authentic flavours. A must-see stop for those who want to visit Lorient and taste its terroir.
The city center itself is a playground for the curious. Its streets are full of quirky little shops, quiet corners and street art that pops up around the walls. Here, the urban is tinged with art and poetry. During a stay in Lorient, it is a must to capture the artistic and contemporary soul of the city.
A little further on, sheltered from the hustle and bustle, the Enclos du Port invites you to slow down. The Péristyle promenade runs along the harbour of Lorient and offers a superb view of the Tour de la Découverte. It is a peaceful place, perfect for walking to the rhythm of the wind, taking a few photos, observing the seagulls or just enjoying the calm, while staying a stone's throw from the center. A perfect balance between city, heritage and nature. This is also what makes the experience of travelling in Brittany so unique: this harmony between modernity and nature.
To continue in this green vein, head for the banks of the Scorff. It's a calming spot, punctuated by walkways, trees, and pathways that connect neighborhoods. Joggers, fishermen, cyclists or simple walkers meet there in a soft and green atmosphere. Families love Chevassu Park, with its playgrounds, while those looking for serenity will prefer the gardens of the Hotel Gabriel, nestled in the heart of the Enclos du Port.
And then, heading for Keroman, it was impossible to miss the former submarine base of Lorient. This place steeped in history has found a new life. Today, it is a must-see cultural site. A lively and playful space, perfect for sea enthusiasts as well as for families looking for discoveries. A real asset for anyone who wants to visit Lorient or take a memorable break during a stay in Lorient.
The Cité de la Voile is an exceptional museum where Éric Tabarly alone deserves half a day. This museum dedicated to navigation tells the story of the marine world in an accessible and interactive way. Navigation simulators, models, fun experiences: everything is there to arouse curiosity. Young and old alike will find something to their liking, and ocean racing enthusiasts will be delighted by the regular nautical events organized on the site.
Not far from there, the Flore submarine attracts the curious. This vestige of the French Navy is now transformed into a museum. When you step on board, you will discover life on board a submersible, with its constraints, its anecdotes, its history. The visit is enriching, both technical and human. It can be extended with a stopover at the Underwater™ Museum of the Pays de Lorient, to better understand the strategic role of the port and military infrastructure.
And if you are passionate about history, don't miss the batobus crossing to Port-Louis. It only takes a few minutes to change scenery and dock at the citadel, which houses the superb Museum of the East India Company. There, another era opens up to you: that of the maritime trade of the eighteenth century. Objects from the other side of the world, archives, stories of expeditions... The museum traces the strategic role of Lorient in colonial trade.
A visit to Lorient that was fascinating and full of lessons.
Travelling to Brittany through the coast of Lorient
Lorient is also a land of water and sand. A little further north, Larmor-Plage perfectly combines relaxation and water sports. Lazing on the sand, paddle or kite-surfing in calm water, an aperitif on the terrace facing the sea: there is the perfect balance between relaxation and activity.
In Guidel, the beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. Fine sand, powerful waves, top water quality: a paradise for surfers. The coastline is Blue Flag, and also offers beautiful walks along the coastal road. Even on stormy days, the natural spectacle is worth the detour.
For a family atmosphere, the beach of Port-Louis is the perfect choice. Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking... The place is peaceful, welcoming, and bathed in a tranquil atmosphere. To reach Port-Louis, a little ride in a batobus and it's won!
And for lovers of wide open spaces and nature, head to Gâvres or Plouhinec. These slightly wilder beaches offer a real breath of fresh air. Dunes, silence, clear horizon: you walk, breathe, recharge your batteries. And for the more active, it is the perfect spot for sand yachting or kitesurfing. You can reach Gâvres by batobus and a bit of walking, but what we advise you to do is to do it with a bike to push on to Plouhinec.
So, are you ready to discover the beaches of Lorient?
Discover the most festive activities in Lorient.
Every summer, the Lorient Interceltic Festival transforms the city into the capital of Celtic cultures. Music, dance, traditions: the whole world comes together here to celebrate Celtic identity in all its forms. A lively, colourful, festive event that makes the city vibrate from August to August.
And that's not all: in May, the European Night of Museums offers new and free activities in all the city's museums. Warm atmosphere, discoveries at night... the opportunity to see Lorient differently.
In September, the European Heritage Days lift the veil on the city's hidden treasures. Buildings that are usually closed, places steeped in history, such as Block K3 or some of the central buildings, are open to the public. Guided tours, exhibitions, meetings... It's a great time to go behind the scenes.
In Lorient restaurants, we eat well, and we live well. There is no shortage of good addresses. Fancy generous Breton cuisine? Head to Le Club Bulot, located in Lorient at the end of the Péristyle esplanade with a view of the Bay of Lorient for a convivial meal in a maritime setting.
For a typical pub atmosphere with a Breton speciality, go to the Tavarn Ar Roue Morvan on the Place Polig Monjarret in the city centre. We advise you to go there on Friday evening by reservation well in advance for the delicious homemade Kig Ha Farz!
Are you more into tapas and a Mediterranean atmosphere? Both a restaurant and a cocktail and tapas bar, Loco Loca, near Lorient train station, offers tapas and plates to share in a warm atmosphere.
For a coffee in Lorient or a gourmet break, push the door of the Café Diem, rue du Port. There is good coffee, homemade pastries and a cosy atmosphere.
And if you are in Guidel, don't miss Les Pieds dans L'eau
: a bar-restaurant facing the beach with a view of the mouth of the Laïta between Guidel and Le Pouldu, perfect for a cocktail at sunset.
Spending a stay in Lorient also means living to the rhythm of words, images and sounds. The Théâtre de Lorient offers a rich programme, mixing classics from the repertoire and contemporary creations. Every season, it welcomes local and national troupes to rock the stage.
A few steps away, the Faouëdic gallery located in the Town Hall, offers a dive into regional contemporary art. Artists in residence, temporary exhibitions, original initiatives... a lively, accessible and stimulating place.
After a busy day, what could be better than a return to calming down?
A few kilometres from Lorient, at Naéco Le Pouldu or Naéco Erdeven, find your haven of peace. Private rooms or shared dormitories, an eco-responsible atmosphere and a preserved natural setting: the place is ideal for recharging your batteries. A stone's throw from the ocean, surrounded by nature, you will find rest, comfort and conviviality.
Whether you come to explore the rich maritime heritage of Lorient or enjoy the many activities, this city promises an unforgettable experience for a trip to Brittany.
