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This port serves as the gateway to enchanting medieval villages and abbeys, the mythical Abers Coast and elegant chateaux.
Local Culture and Flavor
Journey through Brest’s past when you walk through this port city, taking in the array of medieval works as well as locations that reflect the destruction of World War II and the restoration that followed.
Since Brest is one of France’s best resources for fresh fish and seafood, choose to dine on delicious oysters, crab or a dish made of lobster in a white wine and crème fraîche sauce. Sample savory puddings and smoked sausages. Explore the varieties of savory and sweet crêpes in Brest’s many crêperies. Try a crêpe with Chantilly cream and strawberries that are considered the best in the country, hailing from nearby Plougastel!
Past and Present
Romans built a stronghold in Brest in the 3rd century. In the 13th century, the Duke of Brittany acquired it, and in the 14th century, the English took over and occupied the city. It was passed through marriage to France in 1491 and turned into a naval base 140 years later. After 200 years of improvements, Brest emerged as a major base and has been home to the French Naval Academy since 1830.
In World War I, Brest was the point of debarkation for French troops. However, in 1940, the Germans occupied the city, and in World War II heavy bombing nearly destroyed it. Since then, Brest has been restored and is once again one of France’s major naval
Cruising The World
