Concarneau, France

We live in Concarneau, in the south of Brittany, a lovely seaside town that we have come to appreciate for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful coastline and authentic Breton character. It is a relatively small, peaceful and safe place, with a friendly feel and plenty to discover, whether you enjoy nature, history, good food or simply spending time by the sea.

Our house is located in a pleasant residential area, about a 15-minute walk from Les Sables Blancs, one of Concarneau's beautiful sandy beaches. It is a lovely place for a walk, a swim when the weather permits, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air. There are several other beaches and small coastal spots nearby, so you can easily find somewhere to enjoy the sea and the changing light along the coast.

Concarneau is best known for its Ville Close, a historic walled town built on a small island in the harbour. Its old stone walls, narrow streets, little shops and restaurants make it a wonderful place to explore on foot. The harbour is still very much alive with fishing boats, and the town has a strong maritime identity. You will also find plenty of restaurants serving Breton specialities, including fresh seafood, crêpes and galettes, as well as local cider. In summer, the town becomes livelier, with markets, festivals and other events, but it retains its charm throughout the year.

Our house is about a 20-minute walk from the town centre, or around 10 minutes by bike. You can easily go into town for a coffee, a meal, some shopping or an evening stroll along the harbour. There are also supermarkets and other amenities nearby.

One of the things we particularly enjoy about living here is the easy access to nature. The area offers lovely walks along the coast, through wooded areas and across the surrounding countryside. The coastal paths provide beautiful views of the Atlantic, with little coves, rocky headlands and sandy beaches along the way. If you enjoy cycling, we are also close to a voie verte, a greenway for cyclists and walkers that forms part of a longer network of routes in Brittany, extending towards Roscoff.

Concarneau is also a good base for exploring the wider region. Quimper, about 20 km away, is a beautiful historic town with a Gothic cathedral, traditional half-timbered houses and a charming old centre. Brest, approximately 100 km away, is a larger port city with maritime attractions and museums. Further afield, you can discover picturesque Breton villages, dramatic coastal landscapes, historic sites and the distinctive culture and traditions of Brittany.

All in all, we think Concarneau is a wonderful place for anyone who enjoys the sea, outdoor activities, charming towns and good food. It offers a peaceful setting in which to relax, while still providing plenty of opportunities for day trips and exploration. We hope you will enjoy discovering this part of Brittany as much as we do!