Finistère

Overview

Key Facts

• Type of place: department.

• Location: at the westernmost tip of Brittany.

• Department code: 29.

• Bordering departments: Côtes d'Armor and Morbihan.

• Prefecture: Quimper.

• Sub-prefectures: Brest, Châteaulin, Morlaix.

• Number of municipalities: 282.

• Population: 909,028 inhabitants (2017).

• Area: 6,733 km².

• Highest point: Roc'h Ruz (385 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 1,430 km.

• Highlights (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Culture ★★★; Relaxation-holidays ★★★

• Website: http://www.finisteretourisme.com

History of Finistère

Geography and Environment

Culture and Economy

What to See in Finistère

• What to See in Brittany and Finistère

The westernmost department of Brittany offers an excellent overall holiday compromise. Here, you’ll find stunning wild nature that shifts between the sea (islands, "pointes"...) and "reliefs" (Monts d'Arrée and others), a rich historical and cultural heritage (small towns, parish closes...), and plenty of relaxation opportunities, not least with the countless beaches along the coast and the activities you can enjoy there.

What to Do in Finistère

- Water activities: sea outings, diving, sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, land sailing, and more to discover along nearly 1,200 km of coastline (see details).

- Horseback riding: equestrian centers as well as opportunities for rides and hikes for all levels and durations, including the 850 km of marked trails in the Equibreizh network. Other options: horse-drawn carriage rides or donkey treks (see details).

- Fishing: available both at sea, in freshwater rivers and lakes, and through what’s known as "rockpool fishing" in tidal pools or along rocky shores (see details).

- Beaches: Finistère is France’s leading department for coastline length, featuring beautiful sandy beaches, small coves, and vast stretches of pebbles (see details).

- Hiking: whether along the coast or inland, the department offers 5,300 km of marked hiking trails for all levels, including several GR routes (34, 37, 38...) (see details).

- Surfing: two well-known spots among others: La Torche and La Palue (see details).

- Cycling and mountain biking: coastal roads, urban paths, greenways through the countryside or forests, or even 2,500 km of "mountain bike-specific" trails—plenty of options for rides or longer trips for cycling enthusiasts (see details).

Climate and Weather

The department has the characteristics of a temperate oceanic (windy) climate, with generally mild winters and cool summers. Rainfall is fairly abundant and spread throughout the year, peaking during the winter months. Precipitation increases noticeably inland and in higher elevations.

Sea Temperature Throughout the Year

The water temperature is never particularly warm in Brittany. As expected, swimming is most pleasant at the heart of the summer season.

Transport

Getting There

Getting Around

Accommodation

Food

Further Information