The naval town of Lorient resides along the Southern Brittany coastline between Quimper and Vannes in Northwest France. The town occupies both banks of the River Scorff as it merges with the River Blavet in one of the best-protected natural harbours in France. The international airport at Lorient runs regular routes between Paris and Lyon, as well as between Waterford and Galway in Ireland, making the area very accessible to tourists and those hunting for French property in Southern Brittany. Lorient is not that far away from the international airport at Brest either, so opening the area up to visitors from further afield too.
Lorient's natural harbour has a long history. For centuries the port at Blavet (now known as Port Louis) was used by vessels sailing across the Bay of Biscay to Southern France and Spain. It has also been an important base for the French Royal Navy, and was chosen by invading German forces as the site of the first U-boat base in France during World War II. Lorient was to play a crucial role for the Germans in the Battle of the Atlantic, and became a prime target for Allied bombers. Consequently, much of the town was destroyed during the war, a fact that is reflected in the post-war architecture of Lorient property in and around the town today.
Lorient property just outside the town along the beautiful protected coastline is much sought-after by foreign property buyers. The headland to the west of Lorient in particular offers some fine views across the sea towards Ile de Groix. A two-bed French property with views of the sea near Larmor-Plage to the south of Lorient can be purchased for around 180,000 euros. But, if you're looking for a villa in France in a quieter location, you could always begin your property search on the island of Ile de Groix itself.
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