Brest Key Attractions

The stunning natural surroundings of Brest make it a desirable destination for any outdoor enthusiast. There are long coastal walks, sailing and other water sports as well as dramatic windswept moors where you can ride horses and bicycles, or go fishing. Brest is one of the better preserved towns in France to visit if you want to experience true Breton culture. The authentic Breton cafs and Irish pubs as well as the friendly and entertaining locals who live here, will provide a lasting memory as you wander among this interesting old town.

Le Folgoet

In early September, pilgrims come from far away to this religious site, 24kms northeast of Brest. They come to attend the ceremonial procession known as the pardon and to drink water from the Fontaine de Salaun, whose water comes from a spring beneath the churchs altar. This splendid church is known as the Basilique and has a sturdy tower which offers commanding views for miles around.

Museum of Fine Arts

Like Brest itself, this museum and its paintings were destroyed by the bombings during WWII in 1941. Rebuilt in 1964, this building has become a cornerstone of the new city. The museums collection contains European paintings from the 16th century onwards including many works from the regional Pont-Aven Post Impressionist School. The main attraction is its symbolist exhibition, considered one of the best in Europe.

National Botanical Reserve of Brest

This botanical reserve has one of Europes largest collections of endangered plants. It protects over 1,700 species in its greenhouses and gardens and offers an educational perspective on the state of the planets diminishing biodiversity.

Naval Museum of Brest

Situated inside a medieval chateau is this superb collection of model ships, paintings and sculptures. Originally part of the Naval Museum of Paris, this collection was first established in 1748, making it the oldest naval museum in the world. The exhibition of naval ship models is unrivaled and illustrates the history of Richelieus arsenal and the French fleet at the height of its glory. For more information, visit: www.musee-marine.fr.

Oceanopolis

One of the largest marine complexes in Europe presents the flora and fauna of the worlds three oceanic climates: temperate, polar and tropical. Over 10,000 animals from 1,000 different species are represented in this state-of-the-art facility. The Temperate Pavilion focuses on the Breton Sea and its fishing industry; the Tropical Pavilion features a coral reef ecosystem with sharks, sea turtles and tropical fish; and the Polar Pavilion has the largest penguin pool in Europe, complete with polar bears and seals. For more information, visit: www.oceanopolis.com

Questel Fort

Built by Richelieu in the 18th century, this fort was an essential protection for the town of Brest and its important port. Having recently undergone extensive restoration, the fort gives an excellent impression of the fortified life of old Brest. The six-hectare site has also been restored to its natural condition and offers some great walking paths which lead to the Penfeld River.

Tanguy Tower

This rotund 14th century tower is one of the oldest remaining monuments in Brest and well worth a visit. Originally used as a lookout post, it now houses a museum dedicated to the local history of Brest. One of the highlights here are the huge dioramas which show the history of Brest before it was bombed during the war.