Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs are primarily centered around the historic town of Morlaix, located at the southern end of the Morlaix River's deep bay. This area in Brittany, France, features a blend of historical architecture, maritime heritage, and natural riverine landscapes. The town's houses cling to steep hills, with a prominent viaduct spanning the river valley. Visitors can explore a region rich in history, from medieval trade routes to 19th-century engineering marvels.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs
- The most popular attractions is Morlaix Viaduct, a historical viaduct that is a railway structure crossing the Morlaix river. It is 292 meters long and 62 meters high, offering panoramic views of the city from its first floor.
- Another must-see spot is Port of Morlaix, a port and harbour. This marina features around 200 berths and played a strategic role in Brittany's trade during the Middle Ages.
- Visitors also love Morlaix, a town known for its impressive viaduct and a remarkable old quarter with corbelled houses dating from the 15th century. The city's historic center showcases half-timbered houses and reflects its past as an important trading hub.
- Saint-Martin-Des-Champs is known for its historical sites, maritime attractions, and charming settlements. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, from significant architectural structures to picturesque riverbanks.
- The attractions around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 30 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Port of Morlaix
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In the Middle Ages, it played a strategic role for trade in Brittany. This role has been carried out by the port of Roscoff since the end of the 20th century.
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Morlaix Viaduct
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Penzé
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Morlaix
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Take a little time for the city. Its old, crooked, slate-roofed half-timbered houses stand next to handsome buildings from the heyday of the tobacco trade. In addition to tobacco, in the 17th century Morlaix was an important location for the French West India Company, the city traded in ships, fabrics and goldsmiths.
A walk in the historic center of Morlaix takes you past characteristic half-timbered houses with projecting bay windows. In the 15th and 16th centuries, wealthy shipowners and merchants had the so-called “lantern houses” built, which were richly decorated and whose inner courtyard was glazed at the top. A particularly beautiful one is the three-story half-timbered house “Maison dite de la duchesse Anne”.
The atmosphere in Morlaix is great at the Saturday weekly market. The traders present their goods between the historical buildings. They are often regional producers who offer their vegetables, bread or excellent cheese. Locals meet at the stalls to shop and chat. News is exchanged, appointments are made and people admire how big the children have become.
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Houses in Pondalez
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This viaduct, which is important for the railway connection Paris - Brest, is a distinctive feature of the cityscape of Morlaix.
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The town of Morlaix is dominated by a railway viaduct that is over 50 m high and 258 m long and can be seen from far away. It was built in 1864 to create the railway connection between Paris and Brest. At the time, many buildings had to be demolished for this project. During the Second World War, Allied bombers were supposed to bomb the viaduct, but missed their target and caused great damage to the town. The viaduct can be crossed on foot on the first floor.
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Morlaix is an old medieval town, which seduces with its cobbled streets, its half-timbered houses and its imposing viaduct. Nestled between history and modernity, it offers a picturesque atmosphere.
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This small village is a great place to stop if you're riding the Eurovelo. There you will find picnic tables, beautiful views of the boats moored on the river and even toilets. It is approximately halfway between Saint-Pol-de-Léon and Morlaix.
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Half-timbered houses from the first quarter of the 16th century, the houses in Pondalez are astonishing with their architecture and the imposing spiral staircase which supports the “alley bridges” (like footbridges). Two Morlaisian houses, witnesses of this flourishing era, are open to the public: the Maison à Pondalez at 9 Grand Rue and the Maison known as the Duchess Anne, rue du Mur.
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The Morlaix viaduct is a railway structure, of the viaduct type, located in the city of Morlaix which allows the crossing of the Morlaix river and the service to the city station by the line from Paris-Montparnasse to Brest. On January 29, 1943, as part of Allied strategic bombing, eight American Boston fighter-bombers of the Royal Air Force dropped 43 bombs, accidentally killing eighty residents. A single bomb damaged the viaduct which was quickly repaired.
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Super interesting city with its unmissable viaduct! If you haven't been here yet and want to get an impression of Morlaix and other parts of Brittany, you'll definitely find what you're looking for here: https://youtu.be/yKqq8KOvsfU Have fun watching it!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs?
The area is rich in history, particularly around Morlaix. You can visit the impressive Morlaix Viaduct, a 19th-century railway structure offering panoramic city views. The town of Morlaix itself boasts a remarkable old quarter with corbelled and half-timbered houses dating from the 15th century, reflecting its past as an important trading hub. Don't miss the unique Houses in Pondalez, which showcase a distinctive architectural style from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Are there any charming towns or villages to visit near Saint-Martin-Des-Champs?
Absolutely. The main town to explore is Morlaix, known for its historic center, impressive viaduct, and unique 'lantern houses'. Further along the river, the small village of Penzé offers a pleasant stop with picnic tables and views of boats moored on the river, ideal for a break.
What kind of maritime heritage can I discover in the area?
The Port of Morlaix is a key site for maritime heritage. Once a strategic trading hub in Brittany during the Middle Ages, it is now a pretty marina with around 200 berths. You can enjoy walking along the flowery quays and observing the boats, experiencing the special atmosphere of this historic port.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling or running near these attractions?
Yes, the area around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs offers various routes for outdoor enthusiasts. For cycling, you can find routes like the 'Port of Morlaix – Dourduff Bridge loop' which is an easy 13.6 km ride, or more challenging options such as 'From Morlaix to Penzé — loop' at over 62 km. Runners can enjoy routes like the 'Morlaix Viaduct – Port of Morlaix loop' (7.1 km, moderate) or the shorter 'Morlaix – Port of Morlaix loop' (4.9 km, easy). You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs and Running Trails around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs guides.
Are there any easy walks or family-friendly routes around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs?
For easy walks, consider exploring the quays around the Port of Morlaix. The Morlaix Viaduct is also considered family-friendly, and you can walk along its first floor for panoramic views. The village of Penzé offers a pleasant stop with picnic tables and toilets, making it suitable for families. For specific routes, the 'Morlaix – Port of Morlaix loop' is an easy 4.9 km running route that can also be enjoyed as a walk.
Where can I find scenic views or good photo opportunities?
The Morlaix Viaduct offers spectacular panoramic views of the city of Morlaix from its first floor. The Port of Morlaix, with its marina and historic setting, provides picturesque scenes, especially with the flowery quays and moored boats. Additionally, the village of Penzé offers beautiful views of the boats on the river.
What is unique about the architecture in Morlaix?
Morlaix is renowned for its distinctive 'lantern houses' or 'Maison à Pondalez', particularly visible in its old quarter. These 15th and 16th-century half-timbered houses feature projecting bay windows and are grouped around a large central space, often with an inner courtyard called a 'lanterne'. The Houses in Pondalez highlight this unique architectural style, with one restored house serving as a museum showcasing daily life and history.
Is Saint-Martin-Des-Champs suitable for a family visit?
Yes, the area offers several family-friendly options. The Morlaix Viaduct is a great spot for all ages, allowing walks on its first floor. The village of Penzé provides picnic tables and toilet facilities, making it convenient for families. Exploring the historic streets of Morlaix and its port can also be an engaging experience for children.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Martin-Des-Champs?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical architecture and natural beauty. The panoramic views from the Morlaix Viaduct are a highlight, as is the charming atmosphere of the Port of Morlaix. The historic center of Morlaix, with its unique half-timbered houses and vibrant Saturday market, is also a favorite for its cultural richness and lively ambiance.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
While not strictly 'hidden', the detailed exploration of the Houses in Pondalez offers a deeper dive into Morlaix's unique architectural past that many might overlook. These restored 'lantern houses' provide a fascinating glimpse into 15th and 16th-century life and construction. The quiet charm of the village of Penzé, with its peaceful riverside setting, also offers a serene escape from the busier town center.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Martin-Des-Champs?
The area is enjoyable throughout the year, but the summer months often see increased activity, particularly at the Port of Morlaix. The Saturday weekly market in Morlaix is a great experience, offering a lively atmosphere among the historical buildings. For outdoor activities like cycling and running, spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, the town of Morlaix, especially around its central port area and historic quarter, has numerous shops and restaurants flanking the sides under quaint old buildings. You'll find options for refreshments and meals there. The village of Penzé also offers picnic tables if you prefer to bring your own food.
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