"When you first walk into the heart of Pont-Aven, you're greeted by a natural soundtrack of the River Aven that runs through the centre, tumbling over large boulders along its way towards the sea. One hour northwest of Vannes, it's a microcosm of so many elements of a Breton town, with its harbour of sailboats, charming huddles of granite dwellings and surrounding woodlands framing the scene."
"Pont-Aven is renowned as the place that has inspired generations of painters thanks to its natural beauty and particular light. Among the independent boutiques, tearooms and restaurants, you'll find up to 60 different galleries and exhibition spaces, a truly disproportionate number for such a small town, but it means that Pont-Aven is an ideal destination for anyone who appreciates art. You can spend happy hours lingering over vast canvases or more intimate works displayed in windows and on gallery walls at every turn."
"Artists began coming to Pont-Aven as early as the 1850s, but one of the first painters to consciously settle here was Robert Wylie, followed by others from America, Canada, Ireland and England. French artists joined and the town became famous as a residential community for artists, creating, socialising and often boarding together. In practical terms, a train line connecting Paris to nearby Quimper opened in 1862, making Brittany more accessible,"
Pont-Aven lies in west Brittany on the River Aven, with tumbling waters, granite houses, a small harbour and surrounding woodlands. The central bridge and decorative stone buildings anchor the townscape and contribute to its picturesque character. The town inspired generations of painters because of its particular light and evocative landscapes. Up to sixty galleries and exhibition spaces line the streets alongside boutiques, tearooms and restaurants. Artists began arriving in the 1850s, including Robert Wylie, and later international and French painters formed an artists' community. A Paris–Quimper rail link from 1862 and portable oil paints supported prolonged artistic residencies. The town offers walks, a notable museum and acclaimed local cuisine.
Read at The Good Life France
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