About Pontrieux and the area
Like many Breton towns in Brittany, Pontrieux is
medieval in origin, owing its existence and its prosperity to its position
at the head of an estuary, which was the site of the first bridge over the
river Trieux. For a long time the Trieux estuary at this point had the
only link between the areas of Trégor and Goëlo and meant that Pontrieux
was a bustling inland port. Today it offers a navigation route perfect for
pleasure craft but once was much exploited to great effect by the Vikings.
With its two “triangular squares”, Pontrieux
extends down towards a marina, which allows modern day visitors to set
sail for the islands of Bréhat, Jersey and Guernsey. Spanning a viaduct
and two bridges, the town is perfect for a gentle stroll, even at night
when a wonderful civic illumination highlights the washhouses (of which
there are over 50), 16th century half-timbered and 19th century dressed
stone houses, an 18th century granite fountain and the famous 16th century
"Tour Eiffel" house.

There are many fetes and activities in the high
season and a steam engine hauled train between the port's railway station
and Paimpol on the coast.
The town is popular with many visitors of all
nationalities, attracted by its history, as well as its modern charm, with
many artists and artisans having exhibitions and workshops in the area.
Pontrieux has a small local market every Monday.
There are other (larger) markets in the area including; Paimpol on a
Tuesday, St Brieuc on a Wednesday & Saturday, Treguier on a Wednesday,
Lannion on a Thursday and Guingamp on a Friday & Saturday.
Pontrieux is well worth a visit and is a great
base for a "Brittany Break"
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