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There are an array of things to do in France, with Douarnenez sharing quite a few of those!
Douarnenez, a seaside town on the Brittany coast, is a treasure trove of activities that will make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem.
From exploring charming alleyways to indulging in fresh seafood, this town will take you on a journey that feels both familiar and new.
Put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover the secrets of Douarnenez.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Douarnenez:
1. Port-musée
What to see or do: The Port-musée takes visitors on a journey through maritime history and tradition, with exhibits on traditional fishing boats, sailing ships, and even an impressive collection of maritime art and photography.
Visitors can also take a tour of the historic shipyards and docks and watch as craftsmen restore and preserve historic boats.
Don’t miss: The museum’s annual maritime festival, which takes place in July and features traditional boat races, music, and other special events.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try some of the local seafood specialties available in the nearby restaurants and cafes, and take a walk along the picturesque harbor to soak up the town’s unique maritime atmosphere.
The museum can get crowded during peak summer months, so plan accordingly and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
2. Plage du Ris
Plage du Ris is a stunning sandy beach located in the picturesque town of Douarnenez, in western France.
What to see or do: The beach is great for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. It is also an ideal spot for water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
The beach is surrounded by lovely cliffs, providing a spectacular backdrop for relaxation and photo opportunities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the beautiful coastal walk from Plage du Ris to Pointe du Raz, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
There are also several bars and restaurants nearby for those who want to grab a bite to eat or have a drink.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Plage du Ris in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Parking can be a bit tricky during peak season, so arrive early or consider taking public transportation.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be strong during the summer months.
3. Chapelle Sainte-Hélène
Chapelle Sainte-Hélène is a small 17th-century chapel located in Douarnenez, a charming coastal town in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the chapel’s beautiful architecture, featuring granite walls and a bell tower with a pointed roof. Inside, there are a few religious paintings and sculptures to see.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk around the chapel and enjoy the serene countryside surroundings. In summer, the chapel is also open at night for candlelit concerts.
Insider travel tips: – Combine your visit to Chapelle Sainte-Hélène with a trip to the nearby Port-Musée to learn more about Douarnenez’s maritime history.
4. Abbaye Sainte-Croix de Quimperlé
Abbaye Sainte-Croix de Quimperlé is a historic landmark located in the town of Douarnenez in France. This beautiful abbey dates back to the early 12th century and boasts stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the abbey and admire its beautiful cloister gardens and ancient stone church. The abbey also hosts various art exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by both local and international artists.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the abbey’s impressive library, which contains a collection of over 20,000 books and manuscripts from throughout the medieval period.
Insider travel tips: To get the most out of your visit to the Abbaye Sainte-Croix de Quimperlé, plan to spend a few hours exploring the various nooks and crannies of the abbey.
Additionally, make sure to check the abbey’s website for updated information on upcoming exhibitions and events.
5. Plage des Sables Blancs
Plage des Sables Blancs is a stunning beach located in the town of Douarnenez, in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The beach is a fantastic place to soak up the sun, enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear water or to simply relax on the soft white sand.
You can also go for a refreshing walk along the coast or explore the nearby cliffs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the delicious seafood in the town of Douarnenez, which is known for its fishing heritage.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense in the summer months. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon.
And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the incredible views at sunset.
6. Musée de la Faïence
Musée de la Faïence is a museum dedicated to the history and production of faience pottery in Douarnenez, a coastal town in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore an impressive selection of faience pottery ranging from the 18th century to contemporary pieces.
The museum also displays tools and equipment used in the production process, as well as informative exhibitions detailing the history and significance of faience pottery in the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the intricate and colorful designs of traditional faience pottery, as well as the chance to purchase unique and handmade faience pieces in the museum’s shop.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the museum during the week as it can get quite crowded on weekends.
Additionally, be sure to check out the lovely city of Douarnenez itself, which offers stunning views of the coast and deliciously fresh seafood.
7. Le Port Rhu
Le Port Rhu is a historic port located in the town of Douarnenez, France.
What to see or do: Explore the charming harbor and take a stroll along the quayside to admire the traditional fishing boats and sailboats. Visit the Port Museum to learn about the town’s maritime history and the local boat building industry.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a fresh seafood meal in one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor. The views are breathtaking, especially during sunset.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Douarnenez Maritime Festival which takes place every two years. It’s a great opportunity to see traditional boats in action and enjoy festive activities.
If you’re lucky, you may even get to sail on one of the boats yourself.
8. Festival Temps Fête
Festival Temps Fête is an annual maritime festival held in Douarnenez, a picturesque town located in the Brittany region of France.
What to see or do: The festival showcases a range of traditional boats, music and dance performances, street art, and delicious local cuisine.
Visitors can witness the impressive sight of dozens of historic boats sailing in the bay, as well as participate in various workshops and exhibitions.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the impressive procession of boats as they take to the water, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of musical performances and street theater.
Insider travel tips: Book your accommodation early, as this popular festival attracts large crowds and accommodation can fill up quickly. Also, don’t forget to sample the local seafood delicacies and Breton cider while you’re there!
9. Plage de Pors Cad
Plage de Pors Cad is a hidden gem of a beach located on the coast of Douarnenez, France.
What to see or do: The beach is perfect for a day of relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming in the crystal clear waters. Visitors can also hike along the coast or explore the nearby town of Douarnenez.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the beach, especially during sunset.
Insider travel tips: The beach can be difficult to access, so it’s recommended to come prepared with proper footwear and a backpack for any necessary gear.
Also, be sure to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no nearby facilities.
10. Sentier des Plomarc’h
A scenic coastal hiking trail in Douarnenez, France.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline as you walk along the trail. You may also spot some of the region’s diverse wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and various bird species.
Don’t miss: The picturesque Port Rhu, an old fishing port that has been beautifully preserved. You can also visit the nearby Museum of Traditional Breton Costumes to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Insider travel tips: Pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes for the hike. The trail can get quite steep in some areas, so be prepared for a moderate fitness challenge.
Additionally, consider bringing binoculars to enhance your wildlife spotting experience.
And if you happen to be in Douarnenez during August, don’t miss the Festival Temps Fête, which celebrates the town’s maritime history with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
11. Bois du Névet
Bois du Névet is a stunning forested hill located in Douarnenez, France.
What to see or do: Take a walk or hike through the beautiful forested trails and enjoy the pristine natural environment.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the viewpoint at the top of the hill, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Douarnenez and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Bring hiking shoes and a camera to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this location. Additionally, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and wild boar that live in the forest.
12. Plage de Kervel
Plage de Kervel is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach in Douarnenez, a charming coastal town in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The water is clear and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
The long stretch of white sand is great for long strolls, and there are also hiking trails nearby.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the cliffs that surround the beach. There is also a small, picturesque chapel called Notre-Dame de la Côte that is worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, as it can get crowded in peak season. Bring a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the sand.
There is a small parking lot near the beach, but it fills up quickly, so consider taking a bus or biking instead.
13. Pointe du Van
A stunning headland located on the rugged coastline of Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic hike along the coastal path that winds its way along the cliffs, offering incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Admire the unique rock formations and observe the local flora and fauna.
Relax on one of the small beaches dotted along the path or watch the waves crash against the cliffs from a lookout point.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view from the Pointe du Van lighthouse, which offers an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding coastline. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of the area.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, as the coastal path can be uneven and rocky in places. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities along the way. If you’re interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds.
And finally, be sure to sample some of the local seafood dishes in the nearby town of Douarnenez.
14. Balade en mer à bord d’un voilier traditionnel
A sea excursion on a traditional sailboat in Douarnenez, France.
What to see or do: Experience the thrill of sailing on a beautiful old-style boat and enjoy the stunning views of the coast of Douarnenez. You can take the opportunity to learn some basic sailing techniques while admiring the sea and the surroundings.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to spot dolphins or other sea creatures, which often appear during the excursion. This can make for a truly magical and memorable experience.
Insider travel tips: Bring a jacket, as the weather can get a bit chilly out on the water. Also, consider booking in advance, as tours can sell out quickly during peak season.
Finally, make sure to take a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and sailboat.