Although it is situated close to the far western point of the Brittany peninsula, sticking out into the Atlantic Ocean, the town of Brest is more sheltered than you might expect, tucked into a small bay and protected from the wildest of the weather. Little of the old town is left, after Brest was bombed heavily by the Allies during World War II, though a few buildings on the west bank survived. The town's castle is also still standing, and is one of the major tourist attractions in this part of Brittany, along with the newly-built Oceanopolis, a huge indoor aquarium and museum. Thanks to the sheltered nature of Brest bay, the beaches here are also popular with visitors, especially those along the coast from Brest where you can enjoy water sports, walk along the cliff tops and even explore cliffs.
The Brest castle is the oldest monument in the town, originally built in the 13th century, though there have been many additions to the fortress over the centuries. Most of the walls and watchtowers are still standing, and provide visitors with a fine view over the bay towards the town and the Tanguy Tower. You can also see the armoury, the castle dungeon and the original barracks. Nowadays, the castle is also home to a local branch of the National Navy Museum, featuring models of ships, exhibits about naval battles and works of art.
The Tanguy Tower is a medieval tower built on the banks of the River Penfeld, probably during the 14th century Breton War of Succession. It now also houses a museum, one dedicated to the history of Brest itself, particularly those parts of the town that were destroyed in World War II. The museum features maps, paintings and artefacts from old Brest, so visitors can get an idea of what the town looked like in medieval times. The windows on the second floor of the museum provide an excellent view of the castle, across the river.
The centre of Brest is now mainly made up of modern buildings, though a few older structures still survive in the Recouvrance area, on the western bank of the river. The Saint-Saveur church, built in the 18th century, is the oldest religious building in Brest. Saint-Malo street is the only undamaged thoroughfare in the whole town, and remains so today; the only part of Brest that is entirely made up of 17th century buildings without any modern replacements.
One of modern Brest's new developments has proved to be one of the area's most popular tourist attractions, especially for families. Oceanpolis, a few kilometres outside the town centre, is a huge indoor aquarium and museum, dedicated to sea life from all over the world. Here, you can walk through an aquarium tunnel with sharks swimming around you, watch penguins diving for fish and even handle some of the creatures yourself. A great way to amuse kids on a rainy day.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Brest? Then below is a selection of gites in Brest and villas in Brest that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
