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Paimpol: a charming port town
Once a major cod-fishing port, Paimpol has retained its maritime character, with its bustling harbor, half-timbered houses, and the bay leading to the island of Bréhat. This town in the Trégor-Goëlo region charms visitors with its history, its seafood-inspired cuisine, and its seaside scenery. From our campground in the Côtes d’Armor, Paimpol is easy to explore on a day trip.
Here are the must-see spots to help you appreciate the charm of this Breton city that looks out to the sea.
Summary of the Article
- A maritime town with a rich history: Paimpol is an iconic port city in the Côtes-d’Armor region, known for its history tied to the Icelandic fishing industry. Its harbor, shipowners’ houses, and charming narrow streets bear witness to this maritime past.
- A lively and authentic town center: Strolling along the harbor, enjoying the outdoor cafes, and exploring the shops and the weekly market lets you soak up the friendly atmosphere for which Paimpol is famous.
- An ideal starting point for exploring the region: Paimpol is a great base for visiting Bréhat Island, Beauport Abbey, the Trieux Estuary, or hiking the GR®34 trail along the Breton coastline.
- A destination that blends heritage and nature: With its seaside walks, historical sites, water sports, and local cuisine, Paimpol appeals to culture lovers and fans of the Breton countryside alike.
- The port of Paimpol, the historic heart of the “City of the Icelanders,” is lined with shipowners’ houses and old sailing ships. Place du Martray, located in the pedestrianized downtown area, still features its 15th- and 16th-century half-timbered houses. Beauport Abbey opens its cloister, orchard, and gardens overlooking the sea, starting at €7 per adult. The island of Bréhat, just a 10-minute ferry ride away and car-free, charms visitors with its pink granite and flower-lined trails.
The Port of Paimpol and the City of the Icelanders
The port of Paimpol alone tells the epic story of the fishermen who set out to brave the seas off Iceland. As early as 1852, schooners set sail from this pier on long cod-fishing expeditions, and at its peak, the town was home to as many as 80 Icelandic schooners. This history, marked by numerous shipwrecks, inspired Pierre Loti’s novel *The Fisherman of Iceland*.
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Today, the harbor is a mix of dry docks, terraces, and former shipowners’ houses with colorful facades. Old sailing ships sit alongside pleasure boats, creating an atmosphere typical of the Côte d’Armor.
To fully appreciate the city’s maritime history, step inside the house-museum dedicated to these Icelandic fishermen.
The Beauport Maritime Abbey
Located 3 km from the town center,Beauport Abbey is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Paimpol Bay. Founded in 1202, this former abbey stands within a 120-hectare natural estate overlooking the sea. The site, accessible via the Sentier des Douaniers trail, offers a remarkable blend of heritage and nature.
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The tour features a cloister, the Duke’s Hall, and a church open to the elements, overgrown with hydrangeas and heirloom roses. The gardens, the heritage orchard, and the views of the foreshore extend the stroll. Admission starts at €7 for adults, with discounted rates for families. The site also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the season.
Bréhat Island, the Island of Flowers
Off the coast of Paimpol,the island of Bréhat truly lives up to its nickname, “Island of Flowers.” Its mild climate allows hydrangeas, mimosas, and fig trees to thrive amid the pink granite rocks. Cars are not allowed on the island, so visitors explore it on foot or by bike, enjoying a rare sense of tranquility and picture-perfect scenery.
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The crossing departs from Pointe de l’Arcouest, 6 km from Paimpol, and takes only about ten minutes by speedboat. On the island, the Birlot Mill, the Paon Lighthouse, and the gardens offer lovely half-day walks.
Paimpol’s Historic Center and Highlights
Paimpol’s historic center charms visitors with its cobblestone streets and Place du Martray, lined with 15th- and 16th-century half-timbered houses. The shops, crêperies, and markets there foster a warm, welcoming local atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to sample seafood specialties and far breton.
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The town also lives to the rhythm of its major events, as the team at Village Perrosien often reminds us: “The Paimpol Sailors’ Song Festival is worth the trip—the atmosphere there is one of a kind. ” This maritime festival brings together historic sailing ships every two years in August. The rest of the season, the steam train, the Vapeur du Trieux, runs between Paimpol and Pontrieux at the leisurely pace of a vintage locomotive.
Our top pick: Hop aboard the Vapeur du Trieux to cruise up the Trieux estuary to Pontrieux. The journey takes you past landscapes you can’t see from the road or the trails, with the Château de la Roche Jagu towering overhead.
What if your next trip to Brittany were all about the open sea and maritime heritage?
Located between the port of Paimpol, Beauport Abbey, and the island of Bréhat, the bay is a delight for lovers of the sea and history. Book your cabin at our campground near Paimpol and spend the day exploring the town from the Pink Granite Coast.
FAQ – Paimpol
What is there to see in Paimpol and the surrounding area?
In Paimpol and the surrounding area, don’t miss the harbor and the “City of the Icelanders,” Place du Martray, Beauport Abbey, and the island of Bréhat. Hiking enthusiasts will also enjoy the Sentier des Douaniers trail and Pointe de l’Arcouest. A full day is enough to explore the highlights of the bay.
How do you get to Bréhat Island from Paimpol?
To reach Bréhat Island from Paimpol, head to Pointe de l’Arcouest, 6 km from downtown. From there, a ferry makes the crossing in just about ten minutes. Since cars are not allowed on the island, you can explore it on foot or rent a bike once you arrive.
Why is Paimpol nicknamed “the City of the Icelanders”?
Paimpol is nicknamed the “City of the Icelanders” because its sailors began fishing for cod off the coast of Iceland as early as 1852. For more than 80 years, dozens of schooners set sail from its harbor every spring. This history, marked by numerous shipwrecks, has shaped the town’s maritime identity.
How much is admission to Beauport Abbey?
Admission to Beauport Abbey starts at €7 for adults, with discounted rates for children and families. The ticket grants access to the abbey, the cloister, and the estate’s gardens. Hours vary by season, with extended hours in the summer.
