Brest, France

Brest Castle

The castle is still a functioning military facility, perhaps the oldest in the world. In the inner courtyard, the headquarters of the Atlantic Coast naval command of France and the naval prefecture are located. The Brest Castle was founded on the remains of a Gallo-Roman fortification dating back to the 3rd century. The complex was finally completed in the 17th century by the military engineer, the Marquis de Vauban. The castle served as a royal residence, a prison, and a fortress. A convenient way to start your visit is from the Tour Magdelaine, and then continue along the southern curtain wall, at the base of which the stone-and-brick masonry of the Gallo-Roman wall from the 3rd century has been preserved. The thickness of the walls here reaches 12 meters. From the upper terrace, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Brest harbor.

Tangi Tower

Little is known about the origins of the Tangi Tower. It is believed that it was built by the British during the occupation of the city in the course of the War of Breton Succession (1341-1364). Along with the castle opposite it, it is one of the oldest buildings in Brest. Over the centuries, it has been constantly modified. The latest changes were made in the 1970s, when the tower received a roof in a neo-Gothic style. Inside, there is a museum of the history of Brest. Photos, old maps of the city, engravings, and a collection of weapons let you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city before 1939-that is, before the Allied forces’ bombardments during the Second World War. You can take a walk through the streets of pre-war Brest thanks to faithful historical installations.

National Botanical Garden

The world’s first place dedicated to rescuing disappearing plant species was established in Brest in 1975. The garden’s special mission is to preserve the flora of oceanic islands and biodiversity-rich areas such as Madagascar, Morocco, Sicily, and Chile. In total, it features more than 1800 species and varieties. Endangered species and ornamental plants are grouped by the world’s main regions. Depending on their ecological requirements, plants are grown and presented for viewing either outdoors or in tropical greenhouses. The garden also has space for children’s playgrounds and walking trails.

Fort Montbarry

Built in 1777-1784 under Louis XVI, this fort was intended to turn Brest into an impregnable fortress. It became the most important link in the city’s western defenses. In 1944, the Germans established themselves in the fort; their garrison surrendered only after numerous attacks by the Americans, who used tank flamethrowers. After the Second World War, the fortress was restored. Since 1984, the Fort has housed the Department of Finistère History Museum, dedicated to the Second World War, the Resistance, and deportations. Visitors can see the so-called “death wagon” used during deportations, American anti-aircraft guns, air-defense equipment, and the English Churchill tank.

Sailing Ship Reqquvranes

The sailing ship “Rekuvrans” is named after the city’s best-known district, where the wives of sailors prayed to the Mother of God for the safe return of their husbands and sons home. It is an exact replica of a military vessel from the early last century. The project to build it was launched in 1990. Originally, the ship was intended for delivering mail items or urgent notifications. Later, five similar ships were built, designed for a crew of 50 to 60 people. Since 1998, anyone who purchases tickets in advance on the website can board the “Rekuvrans” for a day sea trip or a longer cruise (from 2 to 6 days). The day cruise costs 98 euros (child ticket - 50 euros). The sailing ship sails in the Bay of Iroise, the English Channel, and the North Sea.

Moulin-Blanc Beach

Forming an arc for several kilometers, Moulin-Blanc Beach is located near a port of the same name. Due to heavy pollution from the waste of nearby enterprises, for a long time the beach’s reputation was not the most shining. In the early 1990s, the enterprises were shut down, new storm drains were built, and the beach regained new life. Having become clean and well-kept, it has turned into one of the most popular places to relax. Moreover, among all the local beaches, it is the closest to the city. In the south-eastern part of the beach, on the territory of the commune of Le Réleck-Curéon, there is a spot for windsurfing. Nearby is the water entertainment complex “Spadium”. Year-round, the water temperature there stays at around 30 degrees.

Oceanopolis

In 1990, a science and culture center dedicated to the ocean opened at the Moulin-Blanc pier. In each of the fifty-odd aquariums, an ecosystem has been recreated to match three climate zones: temperate, polar, and tropical. Visitors can learn about wildlife and even pet a starfish, an anemone, and a sea urchin. Here, you can catch the feeding of seals and penguins, as well as watch a film about the Arctic and Antarctica. In the tropical pavilion, there is a panoramic elevator that smoothly descends along a pool with sharks. You can also dive into the depths of the sea in a scuba suit to swim with the inhabitants of coral reefs. In spring 2013, a new open area for otters and sea lions appeared at Oceanopolis.

Brest City Highlights Tour

This city has plenty of architectural and historical monuments that have been restored and refurbished, for example, the Tanguy Tower. The architecture of Brest is mainly dominated by buildings built in the post-war period. In the city center you’ll find the Museum of Fine Arts as well as Saint Louis Church, which is known for its stained-glass windows. The shopping port and Oceanopolis (“an enormous aquarium with three pavilions”) will also be interesting.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can view them after booking your cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.