Pont-Aven

The Town of PaintersFrom 1865, a cosmopolitan collection of artists gathered to paint at Pont-Aven. However, it was after 1886 that the town really passed into the pages of history, once Gauguin, Bernard and Sérusier set up here and experimented with new artistic ideas. This led to a new artistic movement famous all over world and referred to as the 'Pont-Aven School' - considered as one of the foundations for modern art.

This great story can be followed at the Musée des Beaux Arts. Classed as a  "Musée de France", it houses 850 works on permanent exhibition and offers 3 temporary exhibitions each year. Guided visits of the town and of the museum itself will give you the greatest insight into the incredible part played by Pont-Aven in the history of art.

Today, blessed with many artists studios, a School of Art and an International Centre of Modern Art, public courses and 60 private exhibition spaces, Pont-Aven is a marvel for any art-lover. All year long, on weekend and in summer, this beautiful  town welcomes visitors with the brightly-coloured face of a place renowned for its painting and artistic pedigree.

Discover the town

Cross the bridge, wander up the sidstreets and alleyways, cross over the footbridges and pass along the portside. Whether in a guided visit or at your own pace, follow the signposted circuit to discover Pont-Aven through the eyes of the great artist, Paul Gauguin.

Later, stroll along the banks of the Aven. The rushing waters at one end are in sharp contrast to the smooth tranquillity of the 'bois d'amour'. This symbolic place continues to teach us about freedom and enthusiasm. Art students can come to learn, as Gaugin or Sérusier did, and be inspired by the artistic spirit.

Finally, leave the granite waterfalls and bustling harbourside, following the river as it widens and meanders. You'll finally come to the tidal watermill of Hénan with its castle, the miller's house, the chapels, ports of Kerdruc and Rosbraz, and the coves of Kerroched and Port-Manec'h where the Aven meets the Bélon, rushing to the ocean.

On the coastal path GR34, walk the 14 km of the right bank (with a guide in summer, if you prefer)  or take a boat trip with commentary on the boat called the Paul Gauguin.

Shopping at Pont-Aven

All year round, shopping is a great experience here, even on a Sunday!

A modest shopping town from the late 18th century, known for its port, its mills and its welcome, Pont-Aven remains a dedicated shopping town.

If you're a food-lover, you'll have to taste the famous galettes, crisp butter biscuits sold all over the world, and of coruse the other specialities both sweet and savoury that can be discovered at the weekly market on Tuesday mornings.

If you love a bit of décor and make-over, Pont-Aven also offers household and homewares, linen, furniture, and of course all the original artwork you could imagine to enhance your home.

If you love fashion, there are several independent boutiques, jeweller's stores, and clothes shops offering everything from the traditional to the ethnic and unusual, including accessories. Well-known brands and original designers can all be found here, so take a good look around!

Nowadays, the town of Pont-Aven stillattracts and inspires artists, art-lovers and those who are passionate about beautiful things.