Hotels in Paimpol

Paimpol is a picturesque town set around a historic fishing harbour. The town centre is full of charm, with cobbled streets lined with historic shopfronts and half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries. Visit the excellent maritime museum, ride a vintage steam train and enjoy some of the best seafood in France.

Things to do in Paimpol

Built in the 18th century, Abbaye de Beauport recalls Paimpol’s ancient past. The historic landmark moonlights as a cultural centre and hosts art exhibitions, music festivals and other family-friendly activities. Drive to the abbey or enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour stroll along the coast. If you enjoyed the walk, consider exploring nearby coastal paths like the famous “Sentier des Douaniers” GR34 long-distance trail.

Musée de la Mer occupies a former cod-drying factory and charts the rich nautical heritage of the town. The museum is filled with maritime artefacts, including hand-stitched canvas sails, traditional fishing nets and historic sea charts.

La Vapeur du Trieux ferries you between Paimpol and Pontrieux, a picturesque town criss-crossed with canals. The steam engine chugs through the Trieux Valley and treats you to stunning views of the Côtes-d'Armor countryside. Stroll around the historic town centre and enjoy lunch at a waterside café.

Paimpol is brimming with restaurants where you can try local dishes from the Côtes-d'Armor department. Fish is a local speciality, with most restaurants serving their own versions of oysters, mussels, scallops, sardines and cod. For dessert, indulge in a flaky “kouign amann” butter cake or a wafer-thin crepe.

Getting around Paimpol

Paimpol is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is a 45-minute drive from Saint-Brieuc and 1.5 hours from Rennes. Trains run to Rennes in around two hours and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is a 5.5-hour drive away. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the Côtes-d'Armor department at your own pace.