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There are an array of things to do in France, with Lorient sharing quite a few of those!
Lorient is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be unlocked like a secret box bursting with excitement.
From the mesmerizing rhythm of the Celtic music to the dazzling oceanic vistas, each corner of this fascinating city has a story to tell, a mystery to unravel, and an adventure to embark upon.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Lorient:
1. Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly
Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly is a sailing museum and cultural center located in the city of Lorient, France.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
2. Sous-marin Flore-S645
The submarine Flore-S645 is a retired French naval submarine, now turned into a museum.
What to see or do: The museum offers a guided tour inside the submarine, showcasing its living quarters, operations room, torpedo room, and engine room.
Visitors can see firsthand the narrow bunk beds where the sailors slept during their missions, sit at the controls in the operations room and steer the sub, and learn about the technical aspects of the submarine.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to experience a simulated depth charge attack, giving visitors a glimpse into the stressful conditions faced by submariners during wartime.
Insider travel tips: – The tours are conducted only in French, but audio guides are available in English and other languages.
3. Lorient South Brittany Airport
Lorient South Brittany Airport is an international airport located in the town of Larmor-Plage, south of Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The airport primarily serves as a gateway to some of the stunning destinations in south Brittany, including Belle-Île-en-Mer, Groix, Port-Louis, and Lorient.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore Belle-Île-en-Mer, the largest island in Brittany, famous for its stunning beaches, cliffs, and rugged coastline.
The island is also home to inspiring art galleries and museums where you can discover the history and culture of the island.
Insider travel tips: To make the most of your visit, pack light and opt for a comfortable pair of shoes. Lorient South Brittany Airport has a convenient car rental service.
Taxis and public transport are also available from the airport to take you to your destination.
4. Base de sous-marins de Lorient
The Base de sous-marins de Lorient is a former Nazi submarine base in Lorient, France that was built during World War II and used as a base for German submarines.
What to see or do: Today, visitors can explore the massive concrete structures that make up the base, including the U-boat pens where submarines were once repaired and resupplied.
There are also exhibitions and museums on site that tell the story of the base’s construction and use during the war.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to the Base de sous-marins de Lorient is the opportunity to walk through the U-boat pens and imagine what life was like for the submariners who spent months at a time beneath the surface of the ocean.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the base can get chilly even on warm days. It’s also a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Finally, don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local seafood, which is some of the freshest and most delicious in the world.
5. Zoo de Pont-Scorff
The Zoo de Pont-Scorff is a wildlife park situated in Pont-Scorff, near the city of Lorient in France. The zoo is home to over 600 animals from 120 species.
What to see or do: The zoo offers visitors a chance to be in close proximity to various animals such as bears, big cats, primates, reptiles, and more.
There are also shows and activities for visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the tiger feeding and the sea lion show. The big cats are also a highlight of the park and are housed in a large, natural-looking habitat.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the zoo is during weekdays, as weekends can be crowded with families and school groups.
6. Hennebont National Haras
Hennebont National Haras is a historic stud farm located in the town of Hennebont, near Lorient, in the Brittany region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grounds of the stud farm and get a glimpse into the history of horse breeding in France.
The property features stables, training facilities, and a museum with exhibits on the history of the farm and the breeding of horses.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the horses themselves. Visitors can watch them being trained, groomed, or even taken for a ride.
Insider travel tips: For an unforgettable experience, plan a visit during foal season, usually in the spring, when you can see the newest additions to the herd.
Guided tours are also available in both English and French. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the property covers a large area.
7. Chapelle Saint-Christophe
Chapelle Saint-Christophe is a historical chapel located in the city of Lorient, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the chapel, which dates back to the 17th century. The interior features intricate woodwork and stained glass windows, creating a serene and peaceful environment.
Additionally, the chapel regularly hosts classical music concerts and other cultural events.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the stunning view of the city from the chapel’s hilltop location. On a clear day, the panorama is breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Entry to the chapel is free, and visitors can also enjoy the nearby botanical garden and nature reserve.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the chapel can be tricky to reach by foot, as it requires a steep uphill climb.
However, parking is available nearby for those who prefer to drive.
8. Église Saint-Louis
Église Saint-Louis is a historic church located in Lorient, a city in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture of the church, including its beautiful stained-glass windows and elaborate design. There are also regular religious services held at the church.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the organ, which dates back to the 18th century and is considered one of the best preserved organs in France.
The church also hosts occasional concerts and cultural events.
Insider travel tips: – If possible, visit during one of the special events or concerts to experience the church in a unique way.
9. Musée d’Art Contemporain de Lorient
Contemporary art museum in the city of Lorient, France, that showcases a wide range of modern art pieces.
What to see or do: Explore the galleries to witness a variety of innovative and thought-provoking artworks, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, and installations. You can also attend various exhibitions and events held here throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The permanent collection which features works by renowned artists such as Anish Kapoor, Richard Serra, Tony Cragg, and more. The iconic building of the museum, designed by the French architect Christian de Portzamparc, is also worth admiring.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers guided tours in English and French for a better understanding of the exhibits. The admission fee is reasonable, and there are also free entry days, so it’s best to check ahead.
The museum is easily accessible by public transport and is within walking distance from the city center.
10. Écomusée industriel des Forges
A museum housed in a former iron factory in Lorient, Brittany, showcasing the industrial heritage of the region.
What to see or do: Explore the preserved buildings and artifacts to learn about the history of metallurgy and iron production in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: The blast furnace, which dates back to 1878 and is one of the oldest in Europe. Also, the exhibit on World War II resistance fighters who used the factory’s hidden workshop as a weapons cache.
Insider travel tips: Guided tours are available, and there are demonstrations of iron forging techniques on weekends. Combination tickets with nearby museums are available for a reduced price.
Don’t forget to try traditional Breton specialties at the museum’s on-site restaurant.
11. Port de plaisance de Lorient La Base
Modern marina in Lorient, France, accommodating a large number of boats and yachts.
What to see or do: Enjoy the picturesque views of yachts and sailboats lined up in the harbor. Take a stroll along the marina promenade and explore the boutiques and restaurants.
Rent a boat and explore the nearby islands.
Don’t miss: The daily fish market where you can buy freshly caught seafood. The annual Festival Interceltique de Lorient, one of the biggest Celtic festivals in the world, held in August.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the off-season (September-June) for cheaper rates, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather. Book your berth in advance during peak season (July-August) as it gets busy.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty; “Kouign-Amann”, a delectable Breton pastry.
12. Fort Bloqué Beach
A beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Lorient, France.
What to see or do: Relax on the soft sands, swim in the clear waters, or take a walk along the water’s edge. The beach is also equipped with various amenities, including showers, restrooms, and beachside restaurants.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the nearby Fort Bloqué, a historic fortification that dates back to the 17th century. It now houses a museum that showcases local maritime history.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful sunrise. Parking can be limited, so consider taking public transportation or arriving early to secure a spot.
Additionally, be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your visit.
13. Port de Pêche de Keroman
A bustling fishing port in the city of Lorient, France.
What to see or do: Walk along the docks and witness the daily catch being brought in by local fishermen. Take a tour of the port to learn about the industry or watch a live auction at the fish market.
Don’t miss: Trying out the fresh seafood at the restaurants and cafes that line the port. The bustling atmosphere and ocean views create a truly unique dining experience.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to see the fishermen start their day and get the first pick of the day’s catch.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the port and its surrounding areas.
14. Musée sous-marin Flore
An underwater museum located in the bay of Lorient, France, where visitors can explore an exhibition of sculptures submerged at depths of up to 12 meters.
What to see or do: View the stunning sculptures created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, showcasing a unique fusion of oceanography and contemporary art. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive through the museum’s various galleries while admiring the artwork.
Don’t miss: The incredible “Ocean Atlas” sculpture, depicting a young Bahamian girl holding the weight of the ocean on her shoulders. Additionally, the “Lost Correspondent” sculpture, featuring a submerged typewriter with pages of an underwater newspaper scattered around it.
Insider travel tips: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the breathtaking underwater scenery and artwork.
Visitors should also make sure to check local weather conditions before planning a trip to ensure optimal visibility while exploring the exhibits.
15. Kerpape Rehabilitation Center
Kerpape Rehabilitation Center is a leading healthcare facility located in Lorient, France. It specializes in the physical and functional rehabilitation of patients with neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, whether from injury or disease.
What to see or do: Kerpape offers a wide range of rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual needs of their patients. These programs include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, aquatic therapy, and more.
They also have state-of-the-art facilities such as gyms, pools, and sports fields for patients to engage in various activities and treatments.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the dedication and professionalism of the Kerpape team as they work tirelessly with patients to help them achieve their rehabilitation goals.
Patients often report significant improvements in their physical and functional abilities.
Insider travel tips: – Kerpape Rehabilitation Center is located in Lorient, a beautiful port city known for its beaches and sailing culture.