Between bunker walls and cutting-edge ocean adventures
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Massive concrete walls, a salty breeze, and the shimmer of sleek boat hulls on the water—La Base in Lorient is a place full of contrasts. Where one of Europe’s largest submarine bases once stood, a vibrant hub for sailing now thrives.
At its heart, the Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly welcomes visitors with open sails. Instead of gray memories of the past, this is a place that shows how new dreams can grow from old walls.
Experience the world of sailing
The museum feels like a testing ground for sailing dreams. It’s all about doing, not just watching. Hoist sails, practice knots, and navigate virtually through wind and waves. Kids are thrilled by the newly designed Cité des Moussaillons, a colorful play area full of simulators and hands-on stations.
Then everyone heads out to the pontoons, where the Imocas and massive trimarans—also known as the Formula 1 of the seas—are moored. Behind each vessel lie months of preparation: teams fine-tuning high-tech masts, calculating race strategies, and perfecting every detail of their boats. This glimpse behind the scenes shows that Lorient is more than just a harbor; it’s the beating heart of ocean racing.
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Dive into history
Right next to the Cité lies the submarine Flore-S645, a relic from the Cold War era. The moment you step inside, you can feel the tight quarters and the unique atmosphere on board. Narrow corridors, blinking control panels, and the crew’s sleeping bunks give a vivid sense of what life underwater was like. Together with the exhibition in the former bunker, Lorient’s turbulent past comes to life—from the destruction of World War II to its strategic role as a submarine base.
Zipline across the harbor
After all that history and discovery, it’s time for a dose of adrenaline. From the tower of the Cité, the TyRoll zipline takes you on a thrilling ride across the harbor basin. Stretching 300 meters, you glide with views of the boats, the bunker walls, and the open sea. For both kids and adults, it’s an exhilarating moment that makes the visit end on a real high note.
La Base today: architecture, harbor life, and good food
After diving into history and soaring over the harbor on the zipline, La Base offers the perfect way to unwind. Along the waterfront, cafés and restaurants serve fresh fish and Breton specialties. In the evening, it’s worth heading into the center of Lorient, where Restaurant Gare aux Goûts—recommended by the Michelin Guide—delights guests with creative, seasonal cuisine in a relaxed setting. The perfect ending to a day by the sea.
This article was created in collaboration with the Brittany Tourism Board.
