Region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Special Pluses

• Beautiful lake just at the edge of townwith exstensive biking and walking paths including the “Circuit des Hortensias”
• A lovely cathedral
• A widely praised weekly market

Special Pluses

• Tales from Brittany “I think Brittany is the most beautiful region in France. To me, it is sheer perfection. Here, one finds emerald green waters, sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, the GR34 hiking trail, charming Breton villages and bustling cities, magical forests and enchanting castles, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. There is literally something for everyone here.”
• Emily Derrick on Expatra: “Brittany is rugged, overwhelming, and incredibly charming. But it’s not ideal for fans of city life. Most of Brittany is overrun by small villages. Even the most prominent towns still feel like villages. But that doesn’t mean the area isn’t without its charms.”
• Solo Sophie: “Of course; no fishing town would be complete without a port and that of Paimpol is particularly well appointed. The port is around which the rest of the village is built and was once the lifeblood of Paimpol (historically residents of the town would have made their livelihoods thanks to fishing).The first quay at the port was built as early as 1762.”

Special Pluses

• All about the sea…and boats.  Concarneau’s harbor is a bustling hub of activity, lined with colorful fishing boats and charming cafes. The harbor is particularly beautiful at sunset when the boats are illuminated by the setting sun.   Also, the seafood rocks.
• Concarneau’s old town is surrounded by a fortified wall, built in the 14th century. The wall is still largely intact and offers stunning views of the harbor and the city.
• Festival Interceltique de Lorient: A large international festival celebrating Celtic culture, featuring music, dance, sports, and cultural exhibits.
• In August the town holds the annual Fête des Filets Bleus (Festival of the blue nets). The festival, named after the traditional blue nets of Concarneau’s fishing fleet, is a celebration of Breton and pan-Celtic culture. Such festivals can occur throughout Brittany but the Filets Bleus is one of the oldest and largest,

Special Pluses

A nice size town, with the charms of Brittany but not the seaside, tourist ambiance.  Reasonable in size, cost of living and transportation