Well-known to regular visitors to Pont-Aven, with its galleries and mills, the Aven is the link between two neighbouring areas. A little sister of the Bélon, it is no less different in some respects... Steeped in the artistic culture of the 19th century, the ria also bears the name of one of Cornouaille's great cultural regions.
If the Aven could speak, it would tell us about the watermills built by the ancients and crossed by its powerful course, but also about the painters of another time who drew their inspiration here: starting with Paul Gauguin and his friends from the Pont-Aven school. Before coming to Le Pouldu, they were all faithful bathers in the Goulet-Riec cove, as are the locals, holidaymakers and local enthusiasts today...
The Aven also describes its source to the north of Destination Quimperlé les rias, in the commune of Scaër, its journey through the South Finistère countryside to Pont-Aven, and its course downstream to the pretty port of Rosbras. Then its voice will mingle with that of the Bélon to flow in unison into the ocean at the Pointe de Penquernéo. Go to the beach at Port Manec'h, in Nevez, listen carefully, open your eyes wide and breathe in this immense, authentic landscape.
A new section of the GR®34 has been open to the public since May 2023 at Riec-sur-Bélon. A new 4km stretch along the water's edge offers unparalleled views over the Aven ria. Admire the preserved flora and fauna and the comings and goings of boats, kayaks and paddleboats.
