This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Quimper. To help you make friends with Quimper before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
Quimper is one of the nicest cities in Finistere in southern Brittany. Unlike its neighbours Lorient and Brest which were mostly destroyed during the Second World War, Quimper has retained its old world charm. There are many cobbled pedestrian streets in the town centre, with some musical entertainment during the weekends. Quimper hostels are a great place for a weekend getaway.
Quimper is the capital of Briton folklore and hosts a very large festival in July which draws massive crowds. If you stay in a Quimper hostel during the festival you should attend the Sunday parade where you will be able to see thousands of dancers in traditional dress, along with local instruments (bombards, and binious) played by skillful musicians. The rest of the week is also very entertaining with street shows, and many evening concerts, dance and art demonstrations and impromptu parties. If you miss the festival, you can still attend Fest-Noz, local night-time parties that occur all year long. Anyone there will be happy to teach you the proper ways to dance in Brittany. You can ask when the parties are at the reception desk of your hostel in Quimper.
When you stay at a hostel in Quimper we recommend tasting the fantastic local food such as the world famous crepes (savoury and sweet), Briton cake, and seafood (including raw oysters). There are nice little villages around Quimper both on the coast and inland, with several rustic chapels. The rugged coast has many hiking trails which can make for several days of discovery. The train and local bus system can get you pretty much anywhere you want around Quimper. If you are planning to attend the festival, make sure you book your Quimper hostel well in advance.
