During our stay in Brittany, we were able to discover many incredibly beautiful and surprising sites. Visiting the Bay of Morlaix is one of our great discoveries in the region. We reached Morlaix via the left bank, the one located to the west, after our visit to Roscoff.
The road we took was just splendid: a small winding road, along the Morlaix River, of absolute tranquility and beauty.
In this article dedicated to our visit to the Bay of Morlaix, I will present to you the things to do and see, as well as some practical advice to help you prepare for your trip.
Summary:
- Visit Morlaix
- Visit the right bank of the Bay of Morlaix
- Visit the left bank of the Bay of Morlaix
- Practical advice
- My opinion on my visit to the bay of Morlaix
Visit Morlaix
I would like to start this article with the town that gave its name to this magnificent bay: Morlaix. Nestled at the bottom of the valley of the eponymous river, Morlaix is a small tourist town, which deserves a detour to visit the sites of tourist interest present.
What to visit in Morlaix?- Take a walk in Old Morlaix
- Take the viaduct
- Visit the Penanault House
- Duchess Anne's house
- The Morlaix Museum
- The Port of Morlaix and its quays
Take a walk in Old Morlaix
Start your visit to Morlaix by discovering its small old streets, hiding beautiful squares and absolutely charming old houses.
A little history of Morlaix
It was at the end of the XNUMXth century, end of the Hundred Years War, that Morlaix became an important port for trade with the English. The region produced a lot of bleached linen fabrics, which enabled many Morlais inhabitants to get rich and build houses demonstrating their wealth.
Among the places to see in Old Morlaix, there are:
- Allende Square:
In the Middle Ages, this square housed large covered halls. Today, these halls give way to a car park. On the other hand, this square is still surrounded by beautiful typical old houses. - The Main Street:
Admire this beautiful pedestrian street and raise your head to observe the facades adorned with statues. Some houses date from the XNUMXth century. - Rue Ange-de-Guernisac:
Another beautiful street lined with old half-timbered houses. Also discover the alleys, these small, very narrow streets that provide access to other parallel streets. - Saint-Melaine Church:
A charming Gothic church dating from the end of the XNUMXth century. Beautiful pieces are inside. You can access the viaduct by an alley not far from this church.
Take the viaduct
The Morlaix viaduct is a representative place of this city. It is imposing and you will not be able to miss it once you arrive there! It crosses the valley with elegance and strength. Built during the XNUMXth century, it allowed the town of Morlaix to benefit from the passage of the train line linking Paris to Brest at the same time.
Built on 2 floors, the dimensions are impressive: 58 meters high, more than 290 long, no less than 20 arches or 11 tons of granite. This building, symbol of Morlaix, took just over 000 years to build.
I strongly advise you to cross the viaduct, possible on the 1st level. You will be able to enjoy a beautiful view of Morlaix, both of the old town and of its port and quays. The arches in a row give a certain charm to this crossing.
Visit the Penanault House
Located just before arriving on the quays of Morlaix, the Maison Penanault dates from the end of the XNUMXth century. It was built by a wealthy merchant. It is recognizable thanks to its facade entirely of granite and built schist.
Inside this typical house, you will first find the Morlaix tourist office, but also the interpretation center for local architecture and heritage.
Duchess Anne's house
This beautiful bourgeois house is located Place Allende, which we presented at the beginning of this part.
The particularity of this house is that it is typically Morlaisian. Indeed, it is a house in Pondalez. This type of house is characterized by the presence of a central space with a fireplace and a well, but also a spiral staircase.
The Maison de la Duchess Anne is a very good example. Enter the courtyard to admire the various elements that make it up, as well as the details of the sculpted decorations. You will be able to access the kitchen located on the ground floor, as well as the reception room on the 1st floor. These two rooms have been renovated.
You can see another example of a house in Pondalez at 9 Grande Rue.
The Morlaix Museum
Located Place des Jacobins, this museum takes place within the Couvent des Jacobins. The church of this convent dates from the beginning of the XNUMXth century, which makes it the oldest church in the town.
The rest of the convent was built at the same time.
Over the course of history, it went from convent to barracks, then was the seat of the Finistère archeology society. Finally, it was at the end of the XNUMXth century that it housed the Morlaix museum.
One of the elements not to be missed during your visit: the bedside rosette which dates from the XNUMXth century.
The Port of Morlaix and its quays
The port of Morlaix greatly contributed to the development of the town from the XNUMXth century. Trade and transport of linen fabrics but also corsair activities in the XNUMXth century. It is an important and above all, very pleasant place to walk in Morlaix.
Surrounded by its two quays, the Quai de Léon and the Quai de Tréguier, you can cross this pretty marina thanks to a floating footbridge. On the Quai de Léon, is the Manufacture de Tabac. While on the other quay, you will find the Fontaine des Anglais.
Heading towards the town center of Morlaix, you will have an overview of the famous viaduct and the town of Morlaix.
Other places to visit in Morlaix
If you visit Morlaix, you will quickly realize that this town conceals small treasures and magnificent places. Here are some other sites to visit in Morlaix:
- The Calvary esplanade:
For a breathtaking view of the city. - Saint-Mathieu Church:
Very beautiful church housing an opening statue in gilded wood dating from the end of the XNUMXth century, as well as a Dallam organ. - The square of the Castle:
Another beautiful view of the city. - The theater of the Pays de Morlaix:
Very beautiful theater from the end of the 1998th century. It was listed as a historical monument in XNUMX. - Place des Hostages:
Named to pay tribute to the 60 hostages deported in December 1943. You will also find a kiosk on this square, dating from the beginning of the XNUMXth century.
Visit the Bay of Morlaix: the right bank
Now leaving the town of Morlaix to continue our visit to the Bay of Morlaix. Let's head towards the right bank, linking Morlaix to Térénez.
Visit the right bank of the Bay of Morlaix:- Barnenez Cairn
- Terenate
- Go to Pointe de Primel
Great Barnenez Cairn
I now invite you to discover the largest megalithic mausoleum in Europe: the Grand Cairn of Barnenez. An essential place during your visit to the Bay of Morlaix.
These remains were discovered following excavations in the 50s: eleven funerary chambers are found under the imposing stone tables. Probably built around 4 BC, it is no less than 600 meters long and 75 meters wide.
Terenate
This small town announces the end of your visit to the Bay of Morlaix on the right bank. It is a pretty, typically Breton little port.
On site, you can, among other things, taste the local beer, Terenez, but also try your hand at sailing or oyster farming.
Go to Pointe de Primel
If you still have a little time, I encourage you to pull a little further up the coast to reach the start of the Côte des Bruyères and get to Pointe de Primel.
This place will offer you a breathtaking view of the Bay of Morlaix, the Ile de Batz in the distance or the Ile aux Moines, part of the Seven Islands.
Visit the Bay of Morlaix: the left bank
We have arrived at the last stage of our visit to the Bay of Morlaix: the left bank, from Morlaix to Île Callot. A beautiful road along the river!
Visit the right bank of the Bay of Morlaix:Locquénole
First stop on this visit to the left bank of the Bay of Morlaix: the small town of Locquénolé. This is the smallest municipality in Finistère! In its center, do not miss the beautiful little Romanesque church. And if you take a little height, you can admire a beautiful view of the Bay of Morlaix but also notice magnificent very old trees.
Point of Pen-al-Lann
Then going up towards the north, you will arrive at the next interesting place to visit in Morlaix Bay: the Pointe de Pen-al-Lann. A pretty hiking trail allows you to walk along the coast and discover this magnificent area, but also the exceptional view of the Bay. Do not miss the site called the Chair of the Curé, probably one of the most beautiful views of the Bay of Morlaix.
From Pointe de Pen-al-Lann, you can observe 2 islands not far from the shore: the first with a lighthouse and a small house on it; a second, a little further away, with a magnificent fort. This is the Castle of the Bull. The excursion to get to the castle is from Carantec, which we will talk about just after.
Carantec and the Château du Taureau
Not far from Pointe de Pen-al-Lann, I invite you to stop in the town of Carantec. This small family seaside resort has very beautiful villas from the 1900s located along the coast. Very popular with families for its setting, but also for its beaches, Carantec is also home to the ornithological reserve of the Bay of Morlaix. Every year, no less than 60 birds go to this reserve to spend the winter there.
If you are interested in the marine world, you can also plan a visit to the Maritime Museum of Carantec.
Finally, Carantec is also the starting point for cruises taking you to the Château du Taureau which we mentioned earlier.
The Bull's Castle
The first fort built on this islet dates back to the 1540s. Its strategic location allowed the fort to defend the Morlaix river, which goes up to the town of the same name, and thus prevent the English from reaching the rich port of Morlaix.
This fort was then reorganized by Vauban, who left his mark.
Then, it became a prison during the XNUMXth century.
It was in 1914 that the monument was classified as a Historic Monument and became a holiday resort, before being occupied by the Germans during the Second World War.
Finally, the Château was completely renovated at the end of the 1990s and this for about ten years. Today, this castle welcomes many visitors each year and represents a testimony to its history and life on site.
Callot Island
Let's end our visit to the Bay of Morlaix with this island located in the middle of the bay. Île Callot is only accessible at low tide thanks to a special causeway.
This place is particularly popular with fishermen but also families who come to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island, such as the beaches of Park an Aod or Park an Illiz.
Also remember to go to the Notre-Dame-de-Callot chapel which dates from the XNUMXth century and which offers you a breathtaking view of the bay!
Visiting the Bay of Morlaix: practical advice
For this last part devoted to practical advice for organizing your visit to the Bay of Morlaix, I will try to answer the questions that you are likely to ask yourself when organizing your stay. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask them in the comments, I will then add them to this article.
Practical information for visiting the Bay of Morlaix:- Coming to the Bay of Morlaix
- Getting around in the Bay of Morlaix
- Where to sleep to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
- When to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
- How long to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
Coming to the Bay of Morlaix
The easiest way to get to the Bay of Morlaix is to come by car! From Rennes, you are about 2 hours away. And from Nantes, about 3h30 by road.
If you wish, you can reach Morlaix by train. Indeed, a small station served by Paris, Brest or Rennes is located in the city.
Getting around in the Bay of Morlaix
If you want to visit the Bay of Morlaix in its entirety, then you will need a car. If you have your own car that's perfect, if not, you can always opt for a car rental and enjoy your visit to the Bay of Morlaix in complete freedom!
The GR34 as well as routes for bicycles also cross this bay offering you the possibility of a visit on foot or by bicycle!
Where to sleep to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
This is an essential question to prepare for your visit to the Bay of Morlaix: where to sleep? The possibilities will be varied, both in terms of types of accommodation and places to stay.
I will therefore offer you 3 lodgings (house or apartment) as well as 3 guest rooms. These 2 types of accommodation will be the most common in the Bay of Morlaix, although other establishments such as hotels will also offer rooms.
Gites in the Bay of Morlaix
Beautiful house 2 steps from Morlaix
Here is a first gite ideally located not far from Morlaix. With a capacity of up to 10 people, it is the ideal accommodation for a family celebration or a stay with friends. The hosts are very pleasant and will be at your disposal if needed. You can also enjoy the garden, the beautiful terrace and a barbecue at your disposal. Location, Comfort, Hospitality See rates
A gently sloping garden
This second gite is located in Locquénolé, on the left bank of the Bay of Morlaix. The hosts offer you a little cocoon of calm and tranquility in the heart of their perfectly maintained exotic garden. The decoration, the comfort and the facilities of this place make it a perfect place to stay during your visit to the Bay of Morlaix. Calm, Comfort, Garden See prices
Oscar's secret & Jean's fantasy
Let's finish this suggestion of independent accommodation with this apartment in the heart of the town of Morlaix. Cosy, well decorated, practical and close to restaurants and sites to visit in Morlaix, this accommodation is ideal. The welcome of the owner and the cleanliness are also important assets. Location, Reception, Decoration See prices
Guest rooms in the Bay of Morlaix
Henrietta's House
This first bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Morlaix. This beautiful renovated house welcomes you with charm and elegance. The host is very welcoming and ensures that your stay goes well. Also take advantage of the pretty garden and enjoy a delicious breakfast. A great place to sleep in the Bay of Morlaix. Location, Decoration, Hospitality See rates
Bed & breakfasts in Carantec
Here is a magnificent bed and breakfast in a modern house in Carantec. Its major asset is probably the view of the sea and the calm of the place. Enjoy that elusive view from the living room or the pool! The hosts will welcome you warmly and the breakfast offered is delicious, especially at sunrise. View, Calm, Swimming pool
Castle of Saint-Samson
A nice surprise for this last accommodation: a magnificent castle by the sea located in St-Samson, north of Cairn de Barnenez. The welcome is warm and friendly, the view is just exceptional, the breakfast is a pure delight and the rooms are comfortable, clean and tastefully decorated. An exceptional address to discover quickly to stay in the Bay of Morlaix. Location, Home, View See prices
When to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
The Bay of Morlaix is located in Brittany and therefore benefits from very local weather! That is to say that the weather can change very quickly on a day, it will be humid and you will not have very hot weather, even in the middle of summer. The ideal period will be between June and September, especially if you want to do outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling.
How long to visit the Bay of Morlaix?
Visiting the Bay of Morlaix can take you a day or a week! It will depend on how much time you have and what things you want to visit there. In one day, you will pass the main places but you will not have time to visit anything.
Just the town of Morlaix takes about 1 half day.
If you want to have a good overview of this place, take advantage of the few important visits and take a minimum of your time to discover some walks, then I advise you to devote about 3 days to visit the Bay of Morlaix:
- a day to visit Île Callot and the Château du Taureau;
- half a day to visit the rest of the left bank and the other half day to visit Morlaix;
- the third day will be devoted to the right bank of the Bay of Morlaix, up to the Pointe de Primel.
Thus, in 3 days, you will have visited the Bay of Morlaix in a very correct and complete way, leaving you time to make the visits on the spot and to take advantage of the journeys to admire the landscapes.
My opinion on my visit to the bay of Morlaix
Visiting the Bay of Morlaix was a very pleasant and appreciable moment for us. Morlaix is a town that deserves a stop! Very pleasant, very pretty old quarter and many things to do on site.
As for the left and right banks of the Bay of Morlaix, they both contain interesting sites to visit and beautiful landscapes to admire!
So to conclude this article on our visit to the Bay of Morlaix, I strongly recommend that you include this step in your stay in Brittany, you will not be disappointed.
