The City of Painters
The commune of Pont-Aven is a commune near the Atlantic coast, bordered to the east by the River Aven. The small town of Pont-Aven is located on the banks of this river, where it widens into an estuary. The river’s waters wind their way through a jumble of enormous rocks before reaching the sea.
In the past, the waters of the Aven River powered numerous mills in the small town. They are the origin of the saying: “Pont-Aven, town of renown, 14 mills, 15 houses.”
Since its encounter with art, Pont-Aven has inspired not only painters such as Gauguin, Sérusier, and Bernard, but also writers such as Coppée, Brizeux, and above all Xavier Grall, as well as the famous bard Botrel, who lived there until his death in 1925. All of them have also illustrated the town through their work.
Things to see and do
Pont-Aven Museum, walk in the Bois d’Amour, Trémalo Chapel, Hang’art in the neighboring town of Nizon
In the vicinity of Pont-Aven
You are in the region of the rias. Heading towards Pont-Aven, Rospico, Port Manech, Kerdruc, Le Hénant and its tide mill. Then, on the other side of the river, after Pont-Aven, Rosbras, Kerfany, Belon and its famous oysters, Brigneau, Merrien, Clohars Carnöet and its little port of Doëlan, its Saint-Maurice Abbey, Le Pouldu, celebrated by painters. Then head back up to Quimperlé.
