Make a self catering villa in Quimper, Brittany your home away from home

Quimper is a charming port town in Brittany. Situated on the Odet and Steir rivers, its history goes back to the 5th century arrival of the legendary King Gradlon from Cornwall, England. Like so many towns and villages in the area, Quimper has old French architecture with beautiful features on the houses and town buildings. Known for its pottery, particularly its collectible Quimper Malicorne, these lovely pieces make great souvenir gifts.

Things to do in Quimper, France

A stroll around this medieval town will unearth many treasures – a coffee shop which serves divine hot chocolate, a patisserie and a local restaurant or two for excellent dining. The half-timbered buildings and the Halles St-Francis are delightful. This market hall has wonderful views through the upturned boat rafters and sells mainly local produce. Visit the fine Musée des Beaux-Arts museum, and the wonderfully cultural Breton museum.

The enormous Gothic Cathedral, Cathedrale St-Corentin, with its amazing spires, was started in the 13th century and was named after the 5th century St Corentin. The nave is slightly angled, apparently to avoid the swampy edge of the river! It is the most complete neo-Gothic cathedral in Brittany.

The area around your Quimper property is known for its tin-glazed earthenware, called faïence, which has been made here since 1690. Painted with folk designs, the local museum has pieces depicting scenes from World War 1, the first car accident and the death of Zola. It is on sale on almost every street corner in Quimper and new pieces are offered in modern gift shops.

There are festivals and celebrations all over Brittany during the summer months. The Great Festival of Cornouaille is held each July in Quimper and many historic Breton national costumes are displayed during the celebrations.

Places to visit near Quimper, France

One of Europe’s largest aquariums, Oceanopolis is located in Brest. This Ocean Discovery Park makes a great day out for all the family and is just 71km (44miles) from your Quimper self catering property.

Although the town of Brest was rebuilt after a long siege during World War 2, the Rade de Brest, or natural harbour played a historic role during the war. Today it is the base of the French Atlantic Fleet with a huge dry dock.

Just 83km north from your holiday property in Quimper is the delightful harbour town of Morlaix. The scenic road takes a little longer, but is a lovely journey through the rural farmland of the area. The cobbled streets were once protected by a castle and walls which are now in ruins. The pink granite railway viaduct makes a pretty picture with the yachts in the harbour. There is a convent museum and a church is this town, which is full of local French history.

Weather in Quimper, Brittany

Winters in Brittany remain mild, never going below freezing. Summers are balmy reaching an average 20C (68F). With weather similar to the south west of England, showers are light throughout the year.

Flights to Quimper, France

The nearest airport to your Quimper property is Brest airport in Brittany. It is 76km from Quimper. Alternatively the Roscoff ferry terminal offers easy overnight or daytime sailings to Plymouth and is 101km away.