Nantes to Quimper Road Trip: Complete Guide to Brittany's Best Stops

The drive from Nantes to Quimper covers roughly 200 kilometers along the N165 (E60) highway, a route that slices through the heart of southern Brittany. Did you know that the N165 was originally built on the old Roman road linking Nantes (Condate) to Quimper (Civitas Aquilonia)? Today, it offers a smooth, well-maintained corridor, but the true magic lies in the detours.

Driving time without stops is about 2 hours 15 minutes, but we recommend at least 4 to 5 hours to savor the landscapes. This guide answers the question: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route traverses the Gulf of Morbihan region, known for its salt marshes and megalithic sites. Just off the N165, you can explore the Carnac stones – over 3,000 standing stones dating back 6,000 years. This UNESCO candidate site is a must-see.

Local commerce thrives in towns like Auray and Hennebont. Look out for crêperies serving buckwheat galettes and cider. The weekly markets (Wednesdays in Auray, Saturdays in Quimper) offer local produce, cheeses, and artisanal pottery.

UNESCO World Heritage sites: the historic center of Nantes (Château des Ducs de Bretagne) and the medieval ramparts of Guérande (slightly off route). The Quimper Cathedral is also a national monument.

The N165 is a dual carriageway with a speed limit of 110 km/h, except near towns where it drops to 90 km/h. Toll-free except for the short section at the Pont de Saint-Nazaire, but that's a different route. Fuel stations are plentiful: Total, Shell, and Leclerc are common, with prices around €1.80/L for diesel (as of early 2025).

For the best fuel economy, use cruise control at 110 km/h. The route is mostly flat, so fuel consumption averages 6-7 L/100 km for a typical car. Full tank from Nantes to Quimper costs roughly €25-30. Mobile coverage is excellent along the entire route, with 4G/5G from Orange and Free.

Rest areas appear every 20-30 km. Notable ones include Aire de La Prévalaye (km 10) and Aire de Kerminy (km 150). Most have picnic tables, restrooms, and vending machines.

The N165 is well-lit and has safety barriers throughout. However, watch for sudden fog patches near the coast (especially between Vannes and Lorient). In winter, frost can occur on bridges. Always carry a reflective vest and warning triangle.

For families, the area around Lorient has the Parc de Loisirs de Pont-Scorff, a wildlife park with playgrounds. Pet-friendly stops include the Aire de Kervignac, which has a designated dog walking area. Many crêperies allow dogs on outdoor terraces.

To manage fatigue, break every 2 hours. The Aire de La Villeneuve (km 60) has a shaded picnic area. For a more substantial break, exit at Vannes and stroll through the old town's cobbled streets. The best stops Nantes to Quimper often require a slight detour.