Morlaix is a charming harbour town in the Finistere department on the northern coast of Brittany, just south of Roscoff. Morlaix has an unmissable viaduct, built in the 19th century with local pink granite, and it crosses the valley in which the town lies. The centre of Morlaix is very attractive, with some nice medieval streets and houses to explore; many half-timbered. The Jacobin convent, where Mary Queen of Scots passed the night in 1548, now houses an interesting town museum, although if time is limited the Maison de la Reine Anne is probably more interesting, with some lovely carvings and a fine staircase to admire. In the bay off Morlaix is an interesting chateau (now a sailing school) – the chateau du Taureau – built in the 16th century to keep the English at bay. Usually there are plenty of expensive yachts to admire as well.
Access
Morlaix is located only 20 minutes from ferries in Roscoff meanwhile St Malo ferries are approximately 2 hours away. Brest airport is only 40 minutes away from Morlaix with low cost flights to the UK and Dinard airport.
Activities
Morlaix is a town characterized by narrow streets, pavement cafes, a famous Viaduct from the 1800’s and half-timbered houses, and it offers all sorts of amenities including shops, bakeries, restaurants, schools, banks, doctors and a hospital. Every Saturday there is a large and colourful street market with fresh local produce. Thanks to the proximity of the seaside, the town is a perfect destination for the surfing, kite surfing, fishing, sand buggying and swimming enthusiasts. Moreover, there is also the possibility of horse riding, golfing, hiking as well as enjoying many cultural events in the town’s cinemas and theatres. The most popular cultural event takes place on the 14th of July and is dedicated to the Breton culture, involving many exhibitions, Breton language lessons and traditional games. Take a trip out to the little villages at St Thegonnec, Lampaul-Guimiliau and La Roche, where the churches each have their own distinctive and ‘interesting’ carvings of various dramatic scenes from the bible and history.
Food and drink
Brittany is the home of French seafood cuisine. Visit the thousands of little bays and inlets that surround the coast of Brittany and return home at the end of the day to enjoy a simple meal of French oysters and regional French cheeses. Oysters, crabs and stingray are among the local delicacies, best washed down with Breton cider. Don’t miss the local real ales: black, brown and blond.
Restaurants
- Les Bains Douches, 45 Allée Poan Ben 29600 Tel: 02 98 63 83 83
- L’Estaminet, rue du Mur 29600 Tel: 02 98 88 00 17
- Atipik Bilig, 1, rue Ange de Guernisac 29600 Tel: 02 98 63 38 63
Our team of sale advisers at Sextant Properties will be happy to help you to find a property in Morlaix. We have a large network of estate agents near Briec. All of them are registered French estate agents and speak both French and English. Whatever kind of property you are looking for: farmhouse, longere, barn, gite, B&B, country house, mill, castle or chateau, we will do our best to find a property in Brittany matching your requirements. Do not hesitate to contact us to find out more about our selection of properties for sale near Morlaix.