Prepare your visit: history and landscapes
Ranked "City of Art and History", Quimper is a medieval city full of charm, crossed by two rivers: the Odet and the Steir. The urban landscape is a real enchantment with its 16th century wood-paned (columbing) houses, cobbled streets and many flowered bridges that span the water.
Former bishopric, the city has preserved its authenticity while becoming the dynamic cultural centre of southern Finistère. It is here that the heart of Breton culture beats, between the famous earthenware shops and the peaceful gardens that border the old city walls.
Legends and must see on the way
Quimper is a city of stories, the most famous of which dates back to the very creation of the city.
The legend of King Gradlon and the city of Dys:
If you raise your eyes between the two arrows of the cathedral, you will see the equestrian statue of the King Gradlon. The legend tells us that, after the flood of his city by the waves, the king would have taken refuge in Quimper, guided by Saint Corentin. He then donated his palace to build what is today one of the most beautiful religious buildings of the United Kingdom.
Mandatory must-haves:
- The Cathedral of Saint Corentin: A masterpiece of Gothic art with its sumptuous stained glass windows and surprisingly sloping nave.
- The Quarter of the Old Quimper : Explore Kéréon Street to admire the most beautiful half-timbered houses.
- HB-Henriot Department: To discover the historical know-how of the famous bowls with first names and the "quimpérois" decor.
My Practical Tips for Families
Quimper is a very pleasant city to discover on foot, with many secure pedestrian spaces for children.
- The sneakers are advised to walk the paved streets of the historic centre without fatigue.
- The city centre is mostly accessible in stroller, even though some old cobblestones can shake the little ones a little bit. To climb up to the top of Mont Frugy (which offers a superb view of the city) or to enter the narrower small earthenware shops, the Baby carrier is an excellent alternative.
- Relaxation break: The Retreat Garden, located near the ramparts, is a real tropical haven of peace ideal to let the children numb their legs in calm.
- Find the starting point via this Google Maps link.
Photo gallery: the views not to be missed
The unmissable photo spot is located on one of the flowered walkways of the Odet, with the arrows of the cathedral reflecting in the water. The colourful facades of Place au Beurre are also a perfect setting for your digital memories.
What I like:
Quimper, capital of Finistère. A historic city with an incomparable heritage thanks to its cathedral and paved streets that make you feel like in a village in the heart of the city. Famous for its faience, Quimper is a place where Breton culture and history mix together, with Saint Corentin watching over the city from the top of the cathedral. I will never tire of walking in its streets with incomparable charm, with the smells of Breton cookies floating there during the day to be replaced by the smell of mussels-frites in the evening. A city to do and do without moderation.
