Domaine de Pont-Aven Art Gallery Resort

Overlooking the picturesque town of Pont Aven, the Domaine de Pont Aven is an impressive establishment made up of a former manor house and two sets of outbuildings that sit in beautiful landscaped gardens. The pretty former manor house is characteristic of the region, with a white facade, exposed granite blocks and a slate roof. The four of us were more than happy to make our way inside, and be shown to our accommodation by the friendly receptionist.

Entirely decorated in a contemporary and comfortable style, the Domaine de Pont Aven offers three types of accommodation. You can stay in the manor house itself, in one of the 17 prestige bedrooms and suites that have been sympathetically created in this 19th-century building. You can also choose to stay in one of the original outbuildings, with 20 spacious apartments, or otherwise in the hamlet, with its 31 Breton villas. These last two benefit from a fully equipped kitchen, which can be the perfect option for family holidays. We, however, chose to stay in the manor house and enjoy being spoilt.

The bedrooms in the manor house here at the Domaine de Pont Aven are quite simply the perfect retreat. They are comfortable and contemporary, and of course include all modern amenities. We were happy to find that our rooms had everything we needed to relax and unwind during our stay. We could look out over the river and the town from the balconies, take a long bath after busy days out and about, and connect to the internet to get in touch with home. We were also delighted to discover the garden and its seated terrace, where we were able to spend some quiet time sketching and reading while savouring the little haven of peace that we had arrived in.

When we had a little more energy, we discovered that the Domaine de Pont Aven was the perfect place for enjoying a wide range of activities. You can go fishing, take a boat ride and visit the Glénan islands and Crozon. There is kayaking, hiking and horse riding, and with luck, you might have the chance to experience one of the many local festivals, where you will learn all about Breton culture and soak up the atmosphere.

The town of Pont Aven also had plenty to offer all four of us, and after walks on the beach, visits to local art galleries and meals in local restaurants, we loved taking the little path that leads to the estate from the town. Indeed, we didn’t need much persuading to get back to the hotel for an afternoon spent in the relaxing spa space. Boasting a heated swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi, we left feeling calm and rejuvenated, and a little bit hungry, so we made ourselves comfortable in the lounge armchairs and treated ourselves to a taste of one of the local delicacies - oysters straight from the Aven. The dinner unfolded wonderfully, with each of us savouring our choices from the menu of local fish, sausages and veal steak – a truly memorable moment with friends.