Prepare your visit: history and landscapes
Located in the place where the Elorn River meets the sea, Landerneau is a city that flourished thanks to maritime trade and textiles. The urban landscape is marked by magnificent houses in Logonna stone and granite, bearing witness to the city's past wealth.
It is a city where people enjoy strolling along the docks, where the tides still bring up and down the river level. Landerneau is today a must-see stop in Finistère, offering a tasty mix of old stones and contemporary art, all in a warm and commercial atmosphere.
Legends and must see on the way
Landerneau is known worldwide for a monument that seems to challenge water laws.
Rohan Bridge:
A unique inhabited bridge THE real jewel of the city is the Rohan Bridge. Built in the 16th century, it is one of the last inhabited bridges in Europe! Imagine: houses, shops and restaurants are built directly on its arches, above Elorn. Legend has it that the sound of water under the floors has lured the inhabitants for more than 500 years. It is a rare architectural spectacle that gives the city a crazy charm.
Mandatory must-haves:
- Hélène and Édouard Leclerc Fund: Located in the former convent of the Capuchins, this contemporary art centre hosts internationally renowned exhibitions (Picasso, Chagall, Joan Miró...).
- The church of Saint-Houardon: Admire its Renaissance bell tower and beautifully carved porch.
- Rohan Gallery: A space dedicated to temporary exhibitions in the heart of the historic city.
- Animation « Winter nights » : It is a must as Christmas approaches where all the main streets of the city are lit with miles of light and bright animations are projected on the facades.
- The Noise Festival: This festival, which began several years ago, is now a renowned place to spend a few days on the city with the sounds of famous artists.
My Practical Tips for Families
Landerneau is easily visited on foot, making it an ideal destination for a family day.
- A pair of sneakers or comfortable city shoes are largely enough to walk along the cobbled streets and wharves of Elorn.
- The city is generally very accessible in stroller. The docks are wide and equipped, perfect for a quiet walk. To visit the Rohan Bridge or access some small old shops, the Baby carrier may be more practical because of the narrowness of some historical passages.
- Shopping and break: Enjoy the many terraces near the bridge for a snack break. The city is also full of small craft shops and independent bookstores.
- Find the starting point via this Google Maps link.
Photo gallery: the views not to be missed
The essential cliché is, without surprise, the view on the Rohan Bridge from the docks on the left bank. At high tide, the reflections of houses in the water are simply magical. Don't miss the details carved on the facades of the houses of the Place du Marché.
What I like:
Landerneau is the city where I grew up. I know this city by heart and all its alleys. Landerneau, this is my hearty city where I never get tired of walking around and meeting the people I knew there. Its inhabited bridge is what makes Landerneau unique. It is one of the last inhabited bridges in Europe and, whether in summer or winter, it is beautiful in any season, allowing itself to play light of water and sun. Infallible in the face of the great tides, he is the beating heart of Landerneau and his nightlife. A city of sport and character, loving the world records and the celebration, Landerneau lives at the rhythm of the seasons.
