Limoges to Quimper Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

The drive from Limoges to Quimper covers approximately 540 kilometers (335 miles) via the A20, A89, and N165, taking around 5 hours and 40 minutes without stops. This route crosses the Limousin, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and Brittany regions, offering a dramatic shift from the granite plateaus of the Massif Central to the rugged Atlantic coast.

Historical fact: The A89 was built in the 1990s to connect the formerly isolated region of Auvergne to the Atlantic, significantly reducing travel times between Limoges and the west.

For tips on finding hidden gems along this route, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality: The A20 and A89 are well-maintained with good markings. The N165 from Nantes to Quimper is a dual carriageway with occasional median barriers. Toll gates are clearly marked. Night driving: all sections are lit except some parts of the A89 in rural areas. Safety tip: watch for deer on the A89 near Ussel at dusk.

Family stops: In Brive-la-Gaillarde, the Museum of White and Green (free for kids) has interactive science exhibits. Near Périgueux, the Bournat Village is a living history park for children.

Pet-friendly: The A89 rest area at La Rivière (km 120) has a fenced dog park. Many town parks in Brive (Jardin de la Guierle) allow dogs on leash.

Fatigue management: Rest zones every 20 km on A89. Recommended nap spots: Aire de La Souterraine (picnic tables, shaded parking) and Aire de Voutezac (quiet, with a view over the Corrèze river).

Hidden off-route: 5 km from A89 exit 23 (Donzenac), the deserted village of Boussac-Bourg offers the ruins of a 12th-century lava fortress. Also, the Château de Castelnaud (17 km detour) is a fully furnished medieval castle.

Geographical shifts: from the oak forests of Limousin to the limestone causses of the Dordogne, then the pine forests of Landes, and finally the granite tors of Brittany. Notable: the Millevaches Plateau offers heathland and peat bogs with views of Mont Bessou (the highest point of Limousin at 976 m).

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Along the route, the Bordeaux wines region (Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion) is a 30-minute detour from the A89 exit 10. Also, the Loire Valley (including Nantes) is accessible from Nantes.

• Local crafts: In Limoges, purchase porcelain at the Royal Limoges factory (5 min from A20). In Quimper, buy Quimper faïence pottery adorned with hand-painted Breton motifs.
• Deli specialties: Stop at Cloître-Saint-Thégonnec for a crêpe with salted butter caramel. In Périgueux, try foie gras and truffles at the Marché au Gras.

Fuel costs: At €1.80/L (diesel), a round trip costs roughly €140. The A89 includes tolls (€58 total for a car). Fuel stations are frequent every 20-30 km, with Total and Shell stations available near toll plazas. Efficiency tip: use cruise control on the flat sections of the A89 to save fuel.

For real-time traffic, check Bison Futé. Avoid peak holiday weekends (e.g., August 15) when the A10 near Bordeaux jams.

• Best stops Limoges to Quimper: Brive-la-Gaillarde (medieval center), Tulle (lace factory), Périgueux (Roman ruins), Bordeaux (wine tastings), Nantes (Château des Ducs).
• How long to drive Limoges to Quimper: Non-stop 5h40; with breaks 7-8 hours.
• Is it worth driving Limoges to Quimper: Yes, for the diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
• Things to do between Limoges and Quimper: Visit the Gouffre de Padirac (cave), the medieval village of Collonges-la-Rouge, and the Menhirs of Carnac.