Auray

Auray, in the Morbihan department, is a Breton town straddling the Auray river, close to the Gulf of Morbihan. The historic Saint-Goustan harbour quarter, with its cobbled lanes and half-timbered houses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, forms the town's historic heart and reflects its past as a trading port. The riverside quays are well suited to leisurely walks and small boat trips. A few kilometres away, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-d'Auray, one of France's most visited Marian pilgrimage sites, draws large numbers of visitors each year. Auray also lies close to the Carnac megalithic sites and the beaches of the Quiberon peninsula, making it a convenient base for exploring the Morbihan coastline. The town's traditional market, covered halls and central shops showcase local produce, particularly seafood and Breton galettes. Auray is served by a railway station with TGV connections, offering easy access from major French cities. Altogether, the town combines historic character with a coastal setting typical of the Morbihan region.