Finistere

The harbor at Brest is has a certain forlorn expansiveness that is probably responsible for the apocalyptic name given to the region: the translation of the word “Finistere” is something akin to “the end of the world.” Further accentuating this aspect to the town is the intense wreckage caused by World War II, as Brittany was on the front lines for a good part of the battling of world powers.

Nevertheless, Finistere’s natural beauty and local resilience (not to mention decades since the end of the war in which that resilience has done good work) makes Finistere an enjoyable, charming destination. Moreover, Finistere is also important as place from which to launch off to the grouping of Ouessant Islands, which are probably the most amazing feature of the Armorique Regional National Park.

Another attractive Finistere destination is Cap Coz, which is famed for its magnificent waterfront providing superb views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Hotel du Point du Cap Coz offers a great value, especially considering it’s got a number of rooms, with views.

Cuisine in Finistere is to die for. It’s here that the crepe is celebrated, and a wide variety of seafood sauces drizzled over the thin pancake remind you that despite the windswept ruggedness of the Brittany coast, you are in France, one of the world’s most drooled over destinations for lovers of exquisite cuisine. The native Breton touch here, however, is the flavorful cider with which you’ll wash down your crepe or, if you prefer, a fine white wine, local to the region.

One of the nicest things to do in Finistere is walk along the coast and stop in at the local boulangeries, talk to the locals who have a provincial friendliness that is hard to match. Finistere indeed offers a quiet interlude to your otherwise hectic French itinerary, but it gives you embeds this peacefulness in one of the most scenic lookout points in France.