Lannion

Lannion, a historic town on the northern coast of Brittany, is a captivating blend of medieval charm and vibrant modern culture. With its half-timbered houses, lively markets, and winding streets, Lannion invites you to wander and discover its Breton soul. The town sits on the Léguer River, just a short drive from the dramatic Pink Granite Coast, making it an ideal base for exploring one of France's most stunning shorelines.

Highlights & What to See

• Old Town (Centre Historique) – Wander through narrow cobbled lanes lined with 15th- and 16th-century half-timbered houses, many housing artisan boutiques and crêperies. Don't miss the Place du Général Leclerc, the heart of the old town.
• Église Saint-Jean-du-Baly – A striking granite church with a leaning spire, its interior features beautiful stained glass and a serene atmosphere.
• Château de Lannion – Though mostly in ruins, the château's keep and ramparts offer a glimpse into the town's medieval past and panoramic views over the river.
• Marché de Lannion – Held on Thursdays and Saturdays, this bustling market is a feast for the senses, with local produce, seafood, galettes, and Breton cider.
• Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granit Rose) – A 15-minute drive north brings you to a surreal landscape of pink-hued rock formations, sandy coves, and the lively resort town of Perros-Guirec. Walk the Sentier des Douaniers (customs officers' path) for breathtaking coastal views.
• Plage de Trestraou – One of the finest beaches on the Pink Granite Coast, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with a lively promenade of cafés and restaurants.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days allows you to soak up Lannion's old-town charm and explore the Pink Granite Coast at a relaxed pace. Spend your first day wandering the old town and visiting the market; dedicate the second to coastal walks and beaches. A third day could include a boat trip to the Sept-Îles bird sanctuary or a drive to the medieval town of Tréguier. Lannion is compact and walkable, so you can easily combine it with a self-drive itinerary along the Brittany coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Perros-Guirec (10 km) – A lively seaside resort with stunning beaches, the Ploumanac'h lighthouse, and access to the Pink Granite Coast walking trails.
• Tréguier (15 km) – A charming medieval town with a magnificent Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and a picturesque harbour on the Jaudy River.
• Ploumanac'h (12 km) – Famous for its extraordinary pink granite rock formations and the historic Ploumanac'h Lighthouse, set amid a protected natural site.
• Sept-Îles Archipelago (boat from Perros-Guirec) – A nature reserve home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and cormorants, with boat tours available.
• Bégard (10 km) – A quiet town with a notable 12th-century abbey and lovely gardens, offering a peaceful inland contrast to the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.