Brest, France

Brest, France

Brest, France
France

Brest

Excursions

Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life

GARDENS OF DAOULAS ABBEY & PLOUGASTEL CALVARY

GARDENS OF DAOULAS ABBEY & PLOUGASTEL CALVARY

Investing 3 hours of your time will reward you with a visit to the remains of Daoulas Abbey with its delightful medicinal garden and park. First up, enjoy a coach transfer to the site of the one-time abbey, whose ruins include an oratory, fountain, and Roman cloister - unique features in this region. However, the real highlight of your visit will be the gorgeous gardens, which feature a medieval layout and were extended with the help of the National Botanical Conservatory of Brest. True to its medicinal remit, the gardens boast herbs, aromatic, exotic and endangered plants as well as around 250 different pharmaceutical plants from all over the world. In total, the sizeable park covers nearly 4.5 hectares, filled with a selection of remarkable plant life. Your return trip will also include a brief stop at the Plougastel Calvary, an intricate biblical statue that was listed as a historical monument in 1889.

Please note: the number of guides for languages other than French or English is limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French or English only. This tour includes approximately 2 hours of moderate walking, at times over uneven surfaces. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for religious visits. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

DISCOVER LOCRONAN

DISCOVER LOCRONAN

A bit of beautiful French countryside plus a look at the lovely old village of Locronan are on the itinerary of this appealing half-day outing, which begins when you board a coach for a scenic transfer of approx. 1 hour to reach your destination. Full of medieval charm and noted for its granite buildings, Locronan is situated at the foot of a hill and is a member of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" association. The 16th century saw Locronan flourish on the basis of locally grown hemp, signs of which are still evident to this day. The village name goes back to the Irish Saint Ronan, who came to these parts to spread Christian teachings in the 6th century. You ll get to take a guided walk around the village, whose certain highlight will be a visit to the 15th-century Church of Saint Ronan and the adjacent Pénity Chapel. You ll also have some time to explore at your leisure before the coach returns you to the ship.

Please note: the number of guides for languages other than French or English is limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French or English only. Admission to the church is subject to any religious ceremonies that may be taking place. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the church visit. The tour includes approximately 1.25 hours of moderate walking, at times over cobbled surfaces and up inclines, plus any walking at the guests discretion during free time. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

THE COAST OF LEGENDS

THE COAST OF LEGENDS

Get set to feast your eyes on a plethora of stunning views throughout this half-day outing, which begins with a 30-minute coach transfer to the north of Brest to reach Plouguerneau and Europe s tallest lighthouse. You ll then continue along the so-called Coast of Legends or Abers Coast. The three abers - a word of Celtic origin meaning estuary or confluence - that characterise this region were named by Welsh and Irish missionaries who came to Brittany onwards of the 5th-century. Coastal beauty of the craggy, rugged, and rocky kind awaits you here, with your destination being the charming little harbour at Portsall, from where you can also enjoy superb views of Abers Wrac h and Benoit. Further great vistas follow at the St. Mathieu Point promontory, which also features the ruins of St. Mathieu s Abbey. You ll have a bit of time to take a look around and enjoy the spectacular setting before you rejoin your coach for the equally scenic return transfer to Brest and your ship.

Please note: the number of guides for languages other than French or English is limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French or English only. This tour includes a minimal amount of walking, mainly at the guests discretion during free time. There are a few steps to negotiate. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

CHARMING QUIMPER

CHARMING QUIMPER

Spending half a day off the ship to visit the lovely old town of Quimper, situated at the confluence of the Rivers Steir, Odet and Jet, will give you a chance to touch base with a civic history that can be traced all the way back to Roman times. You ll first spend about 1 hour on a coach to reach the town, after which you can stretch your legs during a guided walk which includes a look at the 13th- to 15th-century Normanesque St. Corentin s Cathedral. Remnants of the former town walls, a watchtower built between the 15th and 16th centuries, timber-framed houses, aristocratic mansions, numerous bridges, and a bustling covered market also form part of Quimper s pretty townscape. After the guided walk, you ll have time to explore on your own and browse the shops, which also reflect the town s strong pottery-making tradition.

Please note: the number of guides for languages other than French or English is limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French or English only. Admission to the cathedral is subject to any religious ceremonies that may be taking place. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the cathedral visit. The tour includes approximately 1.25 hours of moderate walking over cobbled surfaces and will require negotiating numerous steps. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Quimper market is open every day except for Sundays. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

THE WALLED CITY OF CONCARNEAU AND PONT-AVEN

THE WALLED CITY OF CONCARNEAU AND PONT-AVEN

An excursion to discover Concarneau, one of the largest fishing ports in France and famous for its imposing walls, and the dreamy landscapes of the town of Pont-Aven are the stars of this full-day excursion. A one-and-a-half-hour coach transfer will take you to Concarneau, located in one of Brittany s most beautiful bays. Once in the town, you will immediately fall in love with its old centre and the "ville-close", the enclosed town, located on a small island just 350 metres long and only 100 metres wide. Follow your guide to discover the old town, enclosed within the walls, with its narrow streets and admire the bell tower that stands out between the ramparts of the enclosed city. After some free time to spend as you please or to have lunch, re-board the coach to enter one of the many paintings by Gaugain and the painters who followed his school. Located on the banks of the Aven river, you cannot visit this town without having a camera with you. Every nook and cranny, every glimpse is the perfect subject for a photo shoot, just as Gaugain and the painters who followed his school fell in love with it in the past. Indeed, Pont-Aven is portrayed in many paintings and is still a favourite destination for artists and painters today. Stroll with a guide along its narrow streets, admire the windmills and be fascinated by the riverside walk. With your eyes still full of this beautiful postcard surrounded by nature, you will return to the harbour with a trip of about one and a half hours.

Please note: Limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in French only. This tour includes approximately 2 hours of moderate to strenuous walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, plus any walking at the guests discretion during free time. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Entrance to the church is subject to any religious ceremonies that may be taking place, appropriate clothing needed for the visit of the church. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

BREST ON BOARD A DOUBLE-DECKER COACH

BREST ON BOARD A DOUBLE-DECKER COACH

Enjoy an overview of Brest by taking part in this short excursion on a double-decker coach. The itinerary includes some of the landmarks of the Breton city, which you can admire from the comfort of your seat on the first or second floor of the coach. After meeting your guide at the pier, take your seat on the coach and begin your itinerary, which starts at the statue of the slaves and includes some of Brest s attractions: La Carène, the train station, Le Fourneau and the American Monument. And to give you a chance to take photos while stationary, two short stops are planned during which you can get off the bus, take a photo or two and get back on to continue your journey. The first stop is at a point from which you can admire the view of the two bridges of Plougastel and the Bay of Brest. You will cross the Penfeld river to discover the Capucins district, the cradle of Brest s naval industry, where you will make your second short stop. Finally, passing over the Recouvrance bridge, you will admire in succession the famous Tanguy tower, Brest Castle, the commercial port and finally the splendid panorama of Brest Bay. The tour ends with the return to the port.

Please note: guides available in English or German only. During the two stops, participants are not free to leave the city, but must re-board the coach to continue the itinerary. The second floor of the coach may be covered in the event of adverse weather conditions. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

YC EXCLUSIVE: EXPLORE MORLAIX, OYSTER FARM VISIT AND TASTING

YC EXCLUSIVE: EXPLORE MORLAIX, OYSTER FARM VISIT AND TASTING

Exclusively crafted for MSC Yacht Club Guests, this experience combines luxury, premium service, and exclusive access to make every moment ashore memorable. Embark on a 5-hour exclusive journey from Brest, exploring Morlaix¿s historic centre and an authentic oyster farm, complete with tastings.

Excursion details<-strong><-p>

Begin with a one-hour drive from Brest to the enchanting town of Morlaix, allowing you to appreciate Brittany¿s gentle countryside landscapes. Upon arrival, embark on a one-hour guided walking tour of its historic centre. The town is known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and the impressive 19th century viaduct. This engineering marvel, built in 1863, was once crucial for connecting Paris to Brest by rail, and today stands as a symbol of Morlaix, offering spectacular views of the town and surrounding valley.<-p>

After soaking in the local atmosphere and architectural heritage, continue with a scenic 30-minute drive to Plougasnou, following the Morlaix River through Brittany¿s extraordinary coastal landscapes and peaceful riverbanks.<-p>

Arrive at a local oyster farm, where a 75-minute immersive visit awaits. Learn about the centuries-old tradition of oyster cultivation, a practice that has shaped the region s culinary identity. Local producers will guide you through the process, from seed to harvest. The highlight is a tasting session: savour six freshly harvested cupped oysters, perfectly complemented by a glass of white wine, all while taking in panoramic views of the bay. Conclude your excursion with a 75-minute return drive to Brest.<-p>

Important Information:<-strong>this excursion is available for MSC Yacht Club Guests only. This tour is unsuitable for guests using a wheelchair, or with mobility problems, as it includes walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. Limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in French only. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes- bring water and a camera. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap. Minimum age to drink alcohol: 18 years old.<-p>

THE BEST OF BREST BY BIKE

THE BEST OF BREST BY BIKE

On this bike tour through Brest and its pleasant environs, you ll first cycle along the coast to the famous Plage du Moulin Blanc. Then you ll head through a park with winding paths and the National Botanical Conservatory of Brest for a well-deserved break. Once in the city centre, you will pass many points of interest, like Cours Dajot, Rue de Siam, and Place Wilson, crossing the Pont de Recouvrance on your way to the Tanguy Tower, which dates from the 19th century and testifies to the importance of Brest s maritime history. Here you can enjoy another break, admiring the beautiful views of the port and taking a look inside the tower, as entrance is free. After that, make your way back to Brest, where you can take one last break at the Château de Brest, a splendid 17th-century castle that houses the Naval Museum, displaying the city s extensive military history and a fine collection of model ships. You ll also have some free time in the city centre before cycling back to the ship.

Please note: the distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 20 km with a 200-m gain in elevation. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent s-guardian s written consent.<-p>

DISCOVER ROMANTIC BRITTANY BY E-BIKE

DISCOVER ROMANTIC BRITTANY BY E-BIKE

This excursion by pedelec (an electrically assisted bicycle) takes you on a comfortable tour through beautiful Brest and its surroundings. The route begins with a ride through the city centre, passing various points of interest including Cours Dajot, Rue de Siam and Place Wilson. Then you ll cross the river at the Pont de Recouvrance to reach a bay on beautiful cycle paths. Once there, you can explore the unusual environment and stop for a coffee. On your way back, your bike leader will take you along the coast road back to Brest. On arrival at the Château de Brest, you can enjoy another break, during which you ll have the chance to admire this impressive 17th-century castle. The chateau is also home to the city s Naval Museum, which traces its military history and includes a large collection of model ships. You ll end the tour by cycling back to your ship, packed with positive impressions of Brest.

Please note: the distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 25 km with a 300-m gain in elevation. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent s-guardian s written consent.<-p>

MORLAIX & CHÂTEAU DE KERJEAN

MORLAIX & CHÂTEAU DE KERJEAN

Joining this tour will see you leave the ship for just over half a day to explore the pretty town of Morlaix and Château de Kerjean in the nearby village of Saint-Vougay. You ll first spend about 45 minutes on the coach to reach Morlaix, which boasts an impressive viaduct over the River Dossen and the Gothic-style Church of Saint-Mélaine, among others. Enjoy a guided stroll down Rue Ange Guernisac, notable for half-timbered buildings with corbelled arches and a 16th-century mansion called Duchesse Anne s House, before taking a look around the historical townscape on your own. Next, enjoy a scenic transfer to Saint-Vougay and Château de Kerjean, a fine mid-16th-century building surrounded by inner and outer fortifications, a terrace, and arcades plus a chapel with timer work. Your tour of the estate will chart its history as told by models, paintings, and an extensive array of typical Breton furniture. The brief return transfer to your ship then brings the outing to a close.

Please note: the number of guides for languages other than French or English is limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in French or English only. Admission to the cathedral is subject to any religious ceremonies that may be taking place. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the church visit. The tour includes approximately 2.25 hours of moderate walking, at times over uneven surfaces. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Participants travelling with infants that do not have their own baby seat, will be asked to sign a waiver prior to having children traveling on the lap.<-p>

UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO QUIMPER

UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO QUIMPER

Enjoy a four-hour unguided transfer to Quimper, including two hours of independent exploration in this medieval town. Discover Gothic architecture, historic watchtowers, and traditional pottery at your own pace.

Excursion details<-strong><-p>

Begin your excursion with a scenic one-hour coach journey through picturesque Breton landscapes, leading you to Quimper, a town with roots stretching back to Roman times. Upon arrival, you have two hours to immerse yourself in the town s unique medieval atmosphere. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses and grand mansions, reflecting centuries of history and culture.<-p>

You may choose to visit St. Corentin s Cathedral, a remarkable Gothic structure constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, renowned for its beautiful stained-glass windows and twin spires, or the nearby 15th- to 16th-century watchtower offering panoramic views over Quimper and the surrounding countryside. As you wander, you ll find shops selling intricately designed ceramics, reflecting Quimper s renowned pottery-making tradition. Don t miss the opportunity to browse and perhaps purchase a unique piece of Quimper pottery as a souvenir of your visit. Along the way, you ll also discover quaint cafes and restaurants offering traditional Breton cuisine, providing a delightful break during your visit.<-p>

Ensure you re back at the designated pick-up point on time to catch your coach for the scenic one-hour return journey to your ship. Enjoy your adventure in the medieval town of Quimper!<-p>

Important Information:<-strong>weather-appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Be aware that many shops may be closed on Sundays and Mondays. Walking is at guests discretion during free time. Those travelling with infants without a personal baby seat will be required to sign a waiver if the child travels on an adult s lap.<-p>