A trip to Quimper
This morning, the birdsong gently wakes up the family. The children jump out of bed with enthusiasm, “We’re off to Quimper today!”
Over breakfast, a discussion as to the day’s agenda and Quimper’s unusual sights ensues. You prepare the rucksack with flasks, sunglasses and drawing books to sketch a few memories through the streets. You’re off for a day steeped in heritage, local delicacies and walks.
After arriving in Quimper, firstly you stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town. The multi-coloured half-timbered houses look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. The children are awestruck by the traditional craft shop windows, whilst you admire the flower-covered facades.
You enter the magnificent Saint-Corentin cathedral, a masterpiece of Breton Gothic art. With the light play of the stained-glass windows on your faces, everyone catches themselves whispering, impressed by the sheer height of the vaulted ceilings.
Head for the Musée Départemental Breton, in the former bishops’ palace. With headdresses, faience glazed ceramics, traditional costumes and scale models of boats, plenty to amaze young and old alike.
A game booklet offered at the entrance transforms the visit into a treasure hunt. Your children play at being explorers. Meanwhile, you discover the secrets of Breton culture.
You’re feeling hungry! You sit down on a sun-drenched terrace, in the Place Terre-au-Duc square. Galette Complète (ham, egg and cheese buckwheat crêpe) for some, seafood salad for others…all washed down with a large bowl of cider. And for dessert? Salted butter caramel crêpes, of course!
Street musicians play some Breton tunes, and you enjoy this simple, congenial moment, in the heart of the town.
Come the afternoon, you walk along the flowering banks of the Odet, the “most attractive river in France”. Stone bridges, mansions, tranquil swans…The peaceful setting, perfect for a gentle post-lunch stroll.
A short break in the Jardin de la Retraite botanical gardens; the palm trees and exotic plants transport the entire family to another world. The children draw, while you have a rest in the shade of a magnolia tree.
On the way back, you can’t resist the aroma of Kouign-amann (sweet Breton butter cake), in a traditional bakery. You buy one to share, warm and melting in your mouth…A real moment of indulgence.
Everyone chooses a Breton faience ceramic gift in a shop on Rue Kéréon, a souvenir of this lovely day.
On the way back, the children gently fall asleep, lulled by the bends in the road and stories of today. You replay the images of this lively town, rooted in Breton traditions, yet pulsing with modern life.
Come the evening, on the campsite the children draw the cathedral, as you prepare pre-dinner drinks. A packed, yet gentle day in good humour. Just as you like your holiday!
