Ghent to Quimper Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Hidden Gems

Did you know that the E40 from Ghent to the French border follows the historic route of the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela? This fact sets the stage for a 700-kilometer journey that crosses three countries and two distinct cultural regions.

The drive from Ghent, Belgium to Quimper, France takes roughly 7.5 hours without stops, but the best stops along the way transform it into a multi-day exploration. The question is it worth driving Ghent to Quimper is answered with a resounding yes—especially when you consider the UNESCO World Heritage sites and culinary surprises waiting off the highway.

To maximize your experience, learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities with our expert tips.

Infrastructure safety is high: all major roads are well-lit, signposted, and have emergency telephones. Speed cameras are frequent—stick to 130 km/h on toll roads, 110 on dual carriageways. In Belgium, speed limits drop to 120 km/h.

Family and child suitability: stop at Parc Astérix near Paris (exit 12 on A1) for a rollercoaster break, or at the Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz (though it's a detour). Closer to the route, the Zoo de Jurques in Normandy (30 minutes from A84) is a hit with kids.

• Recommended rest zones: Aire de la Baie de Somme (km 180 on A13), Aire de la Brotonne (km 240), Aire de l'Oudon (km 320 on A28)
• Fatigue management: plan one stop every 2 hours. Stretch legs at scenic overlooks like the viewpoint over Mont-Saint-Michel (off A84, exit 8)

Pet-friendly framework: most rest stops allow dogs on leads. Many hotels along the A84, such as Ibis Styles in Pontorson, accept pets. Carry a pet first aid kit due to fox and badger crossings at dawn.

Hidden off-route spots: The village of Gerberoy (40 km from A13) is one of France's most beautiful villages with wisteria-draped houses. Also, the Cider Route in the Pays d'Auge (near A28) offers tastings without the crowds.

The route transitions from the flat polders of Flanders to the rolling hills of Normandy, then to the rugged Breton coastline. Near Rouen, the Seine River snakes through chalk cliffs. In Brittany, the Forêt de Paimpont (legendary Brocéliande) offers mystical oak groves.

Things to do between Ghent and Quimper: visit the Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac in Normandy or the pink granite coast at Ploumanac'h near Lannion.

• Flanders: farmland, windmills, and Flemish farmsteads
• Normandy: apple orchards, cider farms, and the Seine valley
• Brittany: heathland, menhirs, and fishing ports

Local commerce is a highlight. In Ghent, try the local cheese 'Gouda van het Land'. In Rouen, purchase 'Neufchâtel' cheese and Calvados. In Quimper, the marché de la Création sells artisanal pottery and kouign-amann pastries.

The backbone of this route is the A1/E17 from Ghent to Paris, then the A13/E5 to Rouen, followed by the A28 to Caen and the A84 to Rennes, finally the N165 to Quimper. The total distance is exactly 712 km via the fastest route.

Fuel costs vary: expect to pay around €1.80 per liter for gasoline in France. A typical car will consume about 55 liters. Toll roads cost approximately €40 for the entire trip.

• Belgium section: toll-free highways (E17)
• France section: A13 (€15), A28 (€12), A84 (€10), N165 (free)
• Electric charging: available at every rest stop; plan a 30-min charging break every 200 km

Road quality is excellent throughout. The A13 is a smooth, well-maintained toll road with frequent rest areas. The N165 in Brittany is a dual carriageway with roundabouts, requiring extra attention.