Auray Travel Guide (Brittany/France/Europe)

Introduction to Auray

Auray is a charming town located in Brittany, France. Known for its picturesque setting, rich history, and vibrant culture, Auray is a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of traditional French life. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s many museums and historical landmarks, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the local culture, Auray has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Auray

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Landmarks

Auray is home to a wealth of culturally important attractions, including several museums and historical landmarks that offer insight into the town’s rich past. Must-visit attractions include:

Musée de la Compagnie des Indes: This museum explores the town’s history as a center of trade and exploration during the colonial era.
Eglise Saint-Gildas: This impressive church dates back to the 16th century and boasts a beautiful Gothic design.
Château de Kerlévenan: This 18th-century castle is set on sprawling grounds and offers guided tours of its ornate interior.

Natural Attractions of Auray: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Auray boasts a range of natural attractions to explore. Some of the top natural attractions include:

Port of Saint-Goustan: This charming port is located in the heart of Auray and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the local scenery.
Etang de Kerloc’h: This tranquil lake is located just outside of town and offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
Bois d’Esnaud: This lush forest is an ideal spot for a scenic hike or bike ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Auray

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Auray is to embark on a hiking or biking adventure. Some popular routes include:

La Boucle des Portes: This 10-kilometer hiking trail boasts stunning views of the town and its surrounding countryside.
Voie Verte: This 13-kilometer cycling route takes you through some of the most picturesque areas of Auray and its nearby villages.

Best Things to Do in Auray: Activities and Tours

In addition to its many natural and cultural attractions, Auray offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some must-do activities include:

Taking a boat tour of the Gulf of Morbihan: This scenic tour takes you through some of the most stunning areas of the Brittany coast.
Sampling the local cuisine: Auray is known for its fresh seafood and traditional French dishes, such as coq au vin and ratatouille.
Attending a local festival or event: Auray hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Saint-Goustan Festival and the Noël à Auray Christmas Market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Auray

For those planning a longer stay in Auray, a week-long itinerary allows you to fully experience all that the town has to offer. A sample itinerary might include:

Day 1: Explore the town center, including the Saint-Goustan port, the Eglise Saint-Gildas, and the Musée de la Compagnie des Indes.
Day 2: Embark on the La Boucle des Portes hiking trail and enjoy stunning views of Auray and its surrounding countryside.
Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Gulf of Morbihan and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
Day 4: Visit the Château de Kerlévenan and take a guided tour of this impressive 18th-century castle.
Day 5: Explore the Bois d’Esnaud forest and enjoy a picnic lunch in the great outdoors.
Day 6: Attend a local festival or event, such as the Saint-Goustan Festival or the Noël à Auray Christmas Market.
Day 7: Sample some of the local cuisine and visit a traditional French patisserie to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Food and Drink Scene of Auray

No trip to Auray would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The town is known for its fresh seafood, traditional French dishes, and delectable pastries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes:

Coquilles Saint-Jacques: These tasty scallops are a local delicacy and are typically served with butter and garlic sauce.
Crêpes: These thin, pancake-like treats are a popular street food in Brittany and can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients.
Kouign-amann: This flaky, buttery pastry is a regional specialty and is a must-try for any visitor to Auray.

Local Beverages:

Cider: Brittany is known for its flavorful ciders, which are made from locally grown apples and pears.
Muscadet: This light, dry white wine pairs perfectly with seafood and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Chouchen: Made from fermenting honey, this sweet and potent alcohol is a popular local beverage.

Where to Stay in Auray: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Auray offers a variety of options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some top choices include:

Mercure Auray Hotel: This stylish hotel is located just outside of town and boasts modern amenities and a convenient location.
Les Chambres de l’Abbaye: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of town and offers beautifully decorated rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
The Originals City, Hôtel Alicia, Auray: This budget-friendly hotel is located just minutes from the town center and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.

What to Buy in Auray: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to bring home a piece of Auray with them, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to choose from. Some top options include:

Breton sweaters and scarves: These traditional woolen garments are warm, cozy, and stylish.
Seafood: Fresh seafood is a popular souvenir among visitors to Auray, and can be packed to travel.
Artisanal crafts: Auray is home to a variety of talented artisans, selling everything from pottery to jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Auray

Auray has a rich cultural heritage, with strong ties to Celtic and Breton traditions. Visitors should take the time to experience some of the town’s unique customs and traditions, including traditional music and dance performances, as well as Breton language lessons.

Best Time to Visit Auray

The best time to visit Auray depends on your preferences. During the summer months, the town is bustling with tourists and offers a variety of outdoor events and festivals. However, the autumn and winter months are a great time to visit for those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Auray

To make the most of your visit to Auray, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Try the local cuisine: Auray is known for its fresh seafood and traditional French dishes, so make sure to sample some of the delicious local fare.
Attend a local festival or event: Auray hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, which are a great opportunity to experience the town’s vibrant culture and traditions.
Pack for the weather: Brittany’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack for a variety of conditions, including rain and wind.

Don’t:

Forget your camera: Auray is a beautiful town with plenty of photo opportunities, so make sure to bring your camera to capture all the sights and scenery.
Wear inappropriate clothing to religious sites: When visiting churches and other religious landmarks, it’s important to dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and legs.
Drink and drive: France has strict laws against drunk driving, and visitors should refrain from driving after consuming alcohol.

Safety and Health

When visiting Auray, it’s important to be aware of safety and health concerns:

Safety in Auray

Auray is generally a safe town, but visitors should take typical precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

Health in Auray

France has a universal healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care to residents and visitors alike. However, visitors should still make sure to have adequate travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Auray: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Auray is easy thanks to its convenient location and excellent transportation links. Some top options include:

Airports Near Auray: The closest major airport is Nantes Atlantique Airport, which is located approximately 140 kilometers away.
Bus Stations Near Auray: Auray has a bus station that offers connections to other towns and cities in Brittany and beyond.
Other Options: Visitors can also travel to Auray via train or car.

How to Get Around in Auray

Auray is a small town that is easily explored on foot, but there are also plenty of transportation options for those who prefer to get around by car, bike, or bus. Some top options include:

Car rental: Visitors can rent a car to explore the town and its surrounding countryside.
Bicycle rental: Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Auray, and many rental shops can be found in town.
Bus: Auray has a reliable bus system that offers connections to other towns and cities in Brittany.

Where to Go Next from Auray: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For those looking to explore more of Brittany and France, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some top options include:

Vannes: This charming medieval town is located just a short drive from Auray and boasts a rich history and vibrant culture.
Quiberon: This picturesque coastal town is a popular destination for its stunning beaches and natural beauty.
Carnac: This ancient town is home to thousands of standing stones, making it a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Conclusion

Auray is a stunning town that offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for visitors. From its rich cultural heritage to its natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this charming Breton town. Whether you’re interested in exploring its museums and historical landmarks, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the local culture, Auray is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Auray Image Gallery

platform at Auray station