Pont-Aven: the city of painters, the jewel of Brittany

Nestled in the heart of Finistère, Pont-Aven, nicknamed "the city of painters", is a true jewel in Brittany's crown. Known for its picturesque charm and artistic heritage, this small town has inspired masters such as Paul Gauguin and William Bouguereau. The cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and pastoral landscapes attract thousands of visitors each year, all in search of beauty and serenity. It is the ideal town in which to find a holiday rental by the sea. Discover Pont-Aven and all it has to offer!

What to do in Pont-Aven

Culture and heritage

Pont-Aven is inextricably linked with art. The Musée de Pont-Aven, located in the heart of the town, exhibits major works from the École de Pont-Aven, an artistic movement established at the end of the 19th century. Stroll through the art galleries dotted around the town, where you can admire and purchase contemporary works inspired by the light and landscapes of the region. Don't miss the many mills along the River Aven, testimony to the town's rich industrial past.

Breton gastronomy

Taking a holiday rental in Brittany is a great opportunity to discover the region's renowned gastronomy - and Pont-Aven is no exception. Make the most of your stay and sample the famous Breton galettes and salted buter caramel crêpes in one of the many local crêperies. Traou Mad biscuits, a speciality unique to Pont-Aven, are a treat not to be missed. For a refined culinary experience, book a table in one of the city's gourmet restaurants, where fresh seafood is the order of the day. You can also opt for a 'far breton' (not to be confused with a Breton lighthouse (phare breton)!), but this kind of cake is so rich that you may need a little nap afterwards, either in your holiday rental or on the beach!

Beaches near Pont-Aven

Just a few kilometres from the City of Painters, you can indulge in the most accessible sport in the world: lounging on a beach! Perhaps take a stroll with the sand between your toes, or even go fishing... Here are the 3 beaches closest to Pont-Aven:

• Tahiti Beach in Névez: yes, you can visit Tahiti while in Brittany! This beach lives up to its name with its beautiful crystal-clear waters. 
• Port-Manec'h Beach, 10 km from Pont-Aven and boasting a picturesque setting and beautiful cliffs.
• Kerfany-les-Pins Beach, as its name suggests, it promises a lush green setting, as the beach is surrounded by pine trees. 

Water activities on the ocean

With the beach so close by, water sports activities are a must during your stay in Pont-Aven!

Just a few kilometres from Pont-Aven, the beaches of Finistère offer an idyllic setting for swimming, surfing, sailing, and many other water sports. Are you looking for a thrill or to relax by the beach? You're bound to find something to suit you, your family, and your friends!

Hiking and nature walks

The area around Pont-Aven is ideal for hiking and nature walks. Here are a few ideas for walks and hikes you can enjoy with your family or friends (and, of course, they're also great if you're on your own):

• Explore the trails of the Aven valley, winding through lush green landscapes that are bursting with flowers. 
• Discover the GR34, known as the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path), offering breathtaking views of the Breton coast and its hidden coves. 
• For a more leisurely stroll, opt for a walk along the river Aven, where you can admire the reflections of the mills in the water.

Résidence les Rives de Pont-Aven: the perfect pied-à-terre from which to explore Finistère

Studios and flats in the Rives de Pont-Aven holiday residence

Would sharing a cosy studio apartment with your significant other, or a small flat with your family or friends be more up your street? The Résidence les Rives de Pont-Aven offers:

• Pretty studios for 2 people (some of which include a balcony, for the chance to enjoy the fresh Breton air), with a fitted kitchen, bathroom and living room;
• Beautiful flats that sleep up to 4 people, with a bedroom, fitted kitchen, living room, bathroom, and some featuring a balcony or even a terrace, on which you can enjoy breakfast in the sun or simply relaxing in an outside space. 

Amenities and services included with the Residence Les Rives de Pont-Aven

The Residence Rives de Pont-Aven holiday home offers holiday accommodation in Finistère, complete with services and amenities to make your stay more comfortable :

• A parking area for easy vehicle parking,
• A gym should you wish to keep in shape,
• The option to bring your pet (at an additional cost),
• Options to lighten your suitcase: free up space in your luggage by choosing the bed linen, towels, cot, high-chair, and baby bath rental options. This will leave you more room to bring back as many souvenirs as possible!

Ready for your holiday in Pont-Aven? Set a course for Brittany!