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Brest - sky guide
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Brest is situated on the western tip of the Brittany peninsula, and is an important port and naval base. It was severely bombed during WWII, and consequently does not have many remaining historical buildings. The rebuilt city is nevertheless enticing, with numerous attractions and warm, hospitable locals.
Brest is home to one of Brittany’s major tourist attractions, Oceanapolis. This modern complex is the largest open-air aquarium in Europe and attracts visitors in droves. It encompasses three aquariums and a 3-D cinema, and houses a vast array of oceanic life.
Musée de la Marine de Brest traces the history of Brest’s maritime tradition and is situated in an old castle, one of the few historical buildings that survived the bombing raids. The 15th century castle is an impressive example of ancient architecture, and offers panoramic views over the city.
Le Musée de la Tour Tanguy (Tanguy Tower) houses a collection of images depicting Brest as it was before the bombings of WWII. The structure is also a remnant of the city’s former beauty, dating from the 14th century.
There is a multitude of dining options in the city – visitors can pick and choose according to their preferences and their budget. Rue Jean-Jaur’s, stretching east from place de la Liberte, has a good selection of bars and bistros, as does place Guerin in quartier St-Martin.
Brest is surrounded by smaller towns and villages which were not so heavily damaged by bombing, and these areas are rich with beautiful old Breton architecture. In Quimper, the sightseeing highlight is St Corentin, a magnificent cathedral. Locronan is a beautifully preserved village that allows visitors a glimpse into the past. Also of interest, Dinan is a quiet town with many architectural gems hidden in winding streets set among the hills of Brittany.
To reach Brest by road, follow the A10 from Paris, then take the A11, which becomes the N12. Regular buses and high-speed TGV trains run between Paris and Brest. There are nine flights per day from Paris to Brest, either from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports.
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