Small towns of character® and historic citiesin Trégor

Petites Cités de Caractère and Historic Towns

Brittany’s identity is inscribed in every cobbled alley, on the polychrome facades of timber-framed houses or in the stone lace of its cathedrals and chapels. Even today, in the heart of the lively alleyways of Tréguier, La Roche-Derrien or Lannion, the stalls of craftsmen and artists open their doors to discover the ancestral know-how of the Petites Cités de Caractère and Villes d’Art et d’Histoire.
Taking part in local activities, festivals and exhibitions that punctuate the daily lives of local residents, or following guided tours, means understanding the history of these historic towns through their monuments and artistic centers.

Tréguier

Historic capital and city of the spirit

At the confluence of the Jaudy and Guindy rivers, the majestic Saint-Tugdual cathedral stands proudly on the Place du Martray. Its elegant spire dominates the landscape. The steep cobbled streets will take you right past one of its three porches. Outside, a little to the right, a small staircase catches your eye and leads you into the cloister, a flamboyant Gothic architectural gem and lapidary museum.
On the third Sunday in May, the square is a hive of activity: the great Pardon de Saint Yves procession attracts believers, the curious and, of course, many of the legal professions. All around the central square, granite mansions and half-timbered houses compete in beauty, while shops, artists’ studios and art galleries arouse curiosity.
The house where the famous writer, philosopher and thinker Ernest Renan was born opens its doors to you. Born in 1823, he claimed the right of free expression for religious and historical criticism in the light of scientific study. Before you leave, take a stroll through the Poet’s Wood, where the suspension bridge tells the story of a time when only ferries were used to cross rivers.

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©Cloître de la Cathédrale de Tréguier|Yannick Le Gal

La Roche-Derrien

A small town of character nestled between estuary and river

Once upon a time, La Roche-Derrien was a much-coveted stronghold, surrounded by small seigneuries, each with its own fortified manor and fertile land. Today, La Roche-Derrien is a charming “Petite Cité de Caractère” (small town of character), where you can discover its history along an interpretive trail.
Enter the church of Sainte-Catherine. It has undergone many modifications, originally serving as a keep when the castle was dismantled. Near the large glass roof, relive the battle of 1347 in binaural sound, and immerse yourself in the sound of cannonballs and swordfire.
From the public garden, observe the remains of the old fortifications. The steep alley leads you to the banks of the Jaudy, where ragpickers once lived, and the English alley leads you back to the site of the vanished château.
At the bend in the Placette du Calvaire, you’ll see the elegant facade of a magnificent red timber-framed house. Take a stroll through the surrounding villages to discover the wealthy houses of Trégorroise, the flax mills and the old seaweed port. Breathe in the woody fragrances and listen for the chirping of the many birds that frequent our rivers.

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Lannion

Just a stone’s throw from the sea, a treasure trove of beautiful old houses in a variety of styles.

Take a stroll through downtown Lannion and step back in time. Your eyes will be lifted as you pass by half-timbered, slate-clad houses, granite buildings and a wealth of curious features: saucy sculptures, caryatids and oriel windows. The cobbled streets lead you to the urban manor houses with their stair towers and watchtowers.
Descend to the Stanco and climb the 142 steps to the Brélévenez church: the view is breathtaking and the sanctuary awe-inspiring. Back in the town center, you can choose between a walk through the heart of the town and/or a historical itinerary along the banks of the Léguer. From the Saint-Jean du Baly church, it’s just a short stroll to the halles (covered market), leading to a maze of small boutiques and art galleries, and on to the Ursulines convent with its fine exhibitions.
A covered passageway takes you to Place du Marchallac’h, where cattle used to be sold. The street leads down to the quays, which were enlarged to promote trade. Crossing the Viarmes bridge, you arrive at Parc Sainte-Anne, a bucolic haven in the heart of the city.

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ACCOMMODATION
RESTAURANTS
GUIDED TOURS

The Valley of the Paper Mills

Maintenance of the banks of the Léguer