Is Lannion in Brittany Worth Visiting?
Yes, Lannion is worth visiting. Lannion is a historic town that is located in the Cotes d'Armor department of Northern Brittany on a site that's been occupied since Neolithic times. The port town is built around an estuary of the River Léguer, which in the Middle Ages, was defended by a château, and the town by a circle of ramparts. It's now a thriving town that due to its location, is the gateway to the very popular Pink Granite Coast. Described by Brittany Tourism as "the Radiant capital of Trégor", the town is "an elegant combination of tradition and modernity. It has a subtle architectural line-up consisting of mansion houses, manors, a former convent and cloister, while the technology park breathes an air of innovation and energy over the city." - Brittany Tourism
Lannion is the administrative, commercial, sports, cultural and tourist capital of Trégor which is probably why it gained the title of the "Radiant capital of Trégor", but what can you expect when you visit? And what do I love about Lannion that I think you might also enjoy? Lannion is a 40 minute drive north-west from our village and we regularly pass through, or stop and wander the town, on our way to our favourite beach walk and swimming spot at Trégastel. My photo above was taken on a very cold winter's day. Building in the middle is number 3 Rue des Chapeliers found in the town square. (More on the building below.)
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Lannion - A Medieval Town worth visiting
Because of the town's old age, there are numerous half-timbered and slate-fronted houses, manors with external spiral staircases, narrow cobbled alleys, a historic convent with cloister and a majestic church, Brélévenez, that looks down upon the town. I think you'll also enjoy seeing these ancient buildings. Note the massive towers attached to the façades of the mansions and manors: they contain spiral staircases to access the floors. We love walking beside the flowing river that sits below the main town.
In winter it's a very cold walk with the wind moving long the river, but in summer it's rather special. Winter in Lannion is magical with a huge Christmas tree in front of the town hall and extensive store and home decorations including wreaths, garlands, faux wrapped presents, bunting and loads of twinkling lights strung across the narrow streets. In the early evenings is the best time to experience this wonderful festive season, after the sun has set and before stores close. If you visit in the warmer months, walk along the river then sit on the terrace of any cafe with a cool drink and simply watch French life unfold before you!
Building details of 3 rue des Chapeliers, Lannion
What Not to Miss in Lannion
3 Rue des Chapeliers, Lannion - In the town square and at 3 Rue des Chapeliers, you'll find a half-timbered building that's decorated with sculpted characters in strange positions. It really is worth taking a look at the intricate details that tell the story of how important the owners were to build such a prestigious dwelling in the centre of town. Half-timbered houses or slate houses with sculpted decorations illustrate the tastes and wealth of its former residents.
Brélévenez Church - Start your visit with the majestic Brélévenez church. It overlooks the town from the top of its 140 steps and offers a breath-taking view. As you stroll through the streets, squares and cobbled alleyways, soak up the atmosphere of the former medieval city.
Imagerie - This is a gallery dedicated to photography which hosts Les Estivales photographiques each year. The photographic festival has been running for over forty years with each year exploring diverse topics. Dynamic, fresh and thought provoking, it's a popular festival for the French community and visitors.
La Chapelle des Ursulines - Temporary exhibitions are curated with a design to appeal to everyone. "Built in the 17th century, the Ursuline Chapel is currently one of Lannion's most important exhibition spaces. Its 200 square meters of natural stone walls, along with its large fixed and removable white walls, provide a beautiful, airy space for professional painters and sculptors. This magnificent cultural venue offers free exhibitions throughout the year and has become, over time, a place for artists and the public to meet and exchange ideas. Location: The Ursuline convent is located approximately 300 meters east of the town square, on the edge of Rue Jean Savidan, in Lannion." - Bretagne Côte de Granit Rose
The Carré Magique - Looking for music, dance or a little contemporary circus? Then this is the place for you. Originally established as a circus school in 1984, it's now the national center of circus arts offering a multidisciplinary program in its theatre.
Office de Tourisme is located beside the carpark of Quai de Viarmes and the bureau has lots of information on tours, events, monuments, beaches, walking paths and more that you can visit in the region. I've always found the staff to be very helpful and friendly - don't hesitate to visit the tourism office and ask questions. Address: 2 Quai de Viarmes, 22300 Lannion, France. Official website: https://en.bretagne-cotedegranitrose.com/cities-of-the-pink-granite-coast/lannion/
With so much to see and explore in Lannion and nearby, I say yes, Lannion is worth visiting.
