Explore Southern Brittany in 5 Days
Directions from the Manoir du Stang
Do you dream of exploring Southern Brittany? With its medieval heritage, wild coastlines, and unspoiled islands, this region offers exceptional diversity. Here is a carefully planned 5-day itinerary to explore the region’s hidden gems, starting at the Manoir du Stang in La Forêt-Fouesnant, ideally located in the heart of Southern Finistère.
Plan your 5-day tour of Southern Brittany
Why choose Southern Brittany for a 5-day trip
Southern Brittany encapsulates the essence of what makes Brittany so charming: medieval towns with well-preserved ramparts, the Gulf of Morbihan—ranked among the world’s most beautiful bays—the mysterious 5,000-year-old stone alignments of Carnac, authentic fishing villages, and fine sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters.
In 5 days, you’ll have time to discover the must-see sites without rushing, soak up the unique atmosphere of each place, and savor the local cuisine. The region’s mild oceanic climate allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities for much of the year.
Le Manoir du Stang: Your Ideal Base in La Forêt-Fouesnant
Located between Quimper and Concarneau, the Manoir du Stang is the perfect base for exploring southern Brittany. All the sites on this itinerary are within a 45-minute drive, so you won’t have to change accommodations every day.
This historic 15th-century manor, nestled on a 40-hectare estate, offers peace and authenticity after your days of exploration.
Day 1
Vannes and the Gulf of Morbihan
Distance from the Manor: 70 km (50 min)
Vannes: a medieval town with historic ramparts
Start your journey in Vannes, a beautiful medieval town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Stroll along the perfectly preserved ramparts that have surrounded Old Vannes since the 13th century. Don’t miss Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the French-style gardens, and the bustling marina. The historic center is easily explored on foot in 2–3 hours, making it the perfect way to soak up the medieval atmosphere of this Breton gem.
Cruise on the Gulf of Morbihan
In the afternoon, set sail on a cruise through the Gulf of Morbihan, a veritable inland sea dotted with some forty islands. Ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, it offers landscapes that change with the tides. Some companies offer a stop at Île aux Moines or Île d’Arz, allowing you to explore these unspoiled islets where time seems to stand still.
Day 2
Carnac and the Quiberon Peninsula
Distance from the Manor: 85 km (1 hour)
The Megalithic Alignments of Carnac
Head to Carnac to discover one of the most extraordinary prehistoric sites in the world. The alignments of menhirs, erected over 5,000 years ago, stretch for several kilometers. More than 3,000 standing stones make up this mysterious Neolithic heritage. The Maison des Mégalithes sheds light on the history and theories surrounding these fascinating monuments.
The rugged coast of Quiberon and a seafood tasting
Continue on to the Quiberon Peninsula, where the rugged coastline offers a breathtaking view of cliffs battered by the Atlantic. The coastal trail is perfect for beautiful walks overlooking the ocean. End the day with a seafood feast at one of the restaurants in Quiberon Harbor, renowned for the freshness of their ingredients.
Day 3
Concarneau, Pont-Aven, and Southern Finistère
Distance from the Manor: 15–30 km (15–25 min)
The walled town of Concarneau
Just 15 minutes from the Manoir, Concarneau welcomes you with its famous “Ville Close,” a medieval fortified town situated on a small island. Accessible via a bridge, this town-within-a-town offers a glimpse into Brittany’s maritime history. Stroll along the ramparts, which offer a panoramic view of the fishing port, France’s leading tuna port. The cobblestone streets are home to artisanal shops, crêperies, and art galleries.
Pont-Aven, the town of painters
In the afternoon, head to Pont-Aven, the village that inspired Gauguin and the Pont-Aven School in the late 19th century. Stroll along the Aven River, admire the water mills, and visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which traces the history of this artistic movement. Contemporary art galleries continue this creative tradition to this day.
Day 4
Lorient and the island of Groix
Distance from the Manor: 45 km (40 min)
Museum of the French East India Company in Lorient
Lorient, a former base of the French East India Company, is home to a fascinating museum that traces the history of maritime trade in the 17th and 18th centuries. Discover porcelain, spices, and exotic artifacts brought back from voyages to the East. The commercial port and the Keroman submarine base also bear witness to the city’s rich maritime past.
A Getaway to Groix Island
Set sail for the island of Groix, just a 45-minute boat ride from Lorient. This unspoiled island boasts magnificent beaches, including the famous Grands Sables beach, known for its convex sand dunes—a unique feature in Europe. Whether by bike or on foot, explore the coastal trails, the Pen Men lighthouse, and the small fishing ports. The island is easy to explore in half a day, leaving plenty of time to enjoy lunch overlooking the sea.
Day 5
La Forêt-Fouesnant and the Treasures of the Fouesnant Region
Distance from the Manor: 1–20 km (5–20 min)
Beaches and coastal trails in the Fouesnant region
Make the most of your last day to explore the wonders right on the Manor’s doorstep. The Fouesnant region boasts over 15 km of coastline, featuring renowned beaches such as Cap Coz and Beg-Meil. The Customs Officers’ Trail (GR34) runs along a spectacular cliffside with views of the Glénan Archipelago. Fine sandy beaches, hidden coves, and turquoise waters make up this unspoiled coastline.
Quimper: Capital of Cornouaille
End your stay in Quimper, just 20 minutes from the Manoir. This capital of Cornouaille charms visitors with its historic center featuring half-timbered houses, the Gothic Saint-Corentin Cathedral, and flower-adorned bridges spanning the Odet River. Stroll through the medieval streets, visit the world-renowned pottery workshops, and enjoy the outdoor cafes serving Breton crêpes and cider.
Practical tips for your 5-day stay
Budget and Accommodations
By choosing the Manoir du Stang as your sole base, you can maximize your budget by avoiding the hassle of changing hotels every day.
- Meals: approximately €50–80 per person per day
- Museum and site visits: €10–20
- Boat tour: €15–30
- Bike rental (Île de Groix): about €15/day
Best period
Southern Brittany is best explored from April through September.
Spring (April–June): lush nature and moderate
crowds Summer (July–August): more sunshine but more visitors
September: mild weather and a return to tranquility
The Manoir du Stang is open from May 4 to October 5.
Book your getaway to Brittany
Treat yourself to a magical getaway at the Manoir du Stang. Our team is here to help you plan a customized stay.