Lorient and Groix
Lorient or « the town with five harbours » is an amazing destination with lots to see and do. It is ideal for a family holiday by the sea. Its landscapes vary from the seashore, along rivers and through the countryside, with lots to explore and a huge range of leisure activities. During your stay in Morbihan, head for the Atlantic coast around Lorient for surfing, sailing, sand-yachting and diving. A myriad of ways to discover the region from a different angle !
Every year, make a date at the Interceltic Festival !
There is no shortage of local products in Brittany ! Mouth-watering specialities include crêpes, Breton cake, kouign amann, cider, salted butter caramels, fish rillettes and andouille (chitterling sausage). Lorient is the second largest fishing port in France so fresh fish and seafood are plentiful : langoustines, oysters, shellfish, fish, etc. Everything you need for a delicious seafood platter and fine fresh fish.
For the past 50 years, Lorient has been the world capital of Celtic nations. Its annual Interceltic Festival attracts more than 800,000 festival goers over 10 days during the first fortnight in August. It brings together groups from countries and regions of Celtic origin for concerts, dances and different performances. A unique event which is definitely not to be missed !
History and the sea
Lorient, like many other towns on the Atlantic coast, was greatly affected by the Second World War. History enthusiasts can enjoy visiting places steeped in memories of the events which marked the town during the 20th century. The submarine pens built by the Germans have been converted into a go-ahead, innovative complex of museums, restaurants and harbour activities. The Eric Tabarly Cité de la Voile is a perfect example : this museum of sailing and ocean racing is a fun, interactive experience for both children and grown-ups.
The island of Groix
Take a ferry to Groix, the Breton island at the entrance to the Lorient Approaches which is a real treasure ! The best way to explore the island is by bike along the 40km of paths. In summer, there are coach tours of the island to see heather-covered moorland, white or red sandy beaches and the delightful ports of Port Tudy and Port Lay. A genuine change of scene and an unforgettable island, just like its cousins in the Gulf of Morbihan.
Absolute must see attractions
Kévin who works in the offices of Gites de France en Bretagne was born in Lorient and returns there regularly. What he likes most is walking along the coast and stopping for a drink at a pavement café facing the sea. The little harbour at Lomener in Ploemeur is very lively in summer and also the starting point for a super walk to little coves whose waters glisten with many shades of blue. The coast is just as fascinating during winter gales when the sea crashes onto the rocks and over the breakwater in a spectacular display of power. Very attached to the history of his home town, Kévin also recommends a walk past the submarine pens along the quays where racing yachts are moored to see at close range these giants of the seas which take part in great round the world yacht races !
How to get to Lorient
Lorient is only just over 3 hours by TGV train from Paris. Flights to Paris and Lyon run all year round from Lorient airport. By road, the RN165 dual-carriageway passes just north of the town. Ferries run to the Ile de Groix all year round, several times a day. The crossing takes 45 minutes."
