Pont de Saint-Goustan

Pont de Saint-Goustan is a small stone bridge in Auray, in the Morbihan department of Brittany, France. Spanning the Loc'h river (also known as the rivière d'Auray), it links the town centre with the picturesque harbour quarter of Saint-Goustan, one of the most photographed corners of southern Brittany.

Why does this bridge matter to Auray?

The crossing here is anything but recent. As early as the 12th century a passage existed at this spot — first a ford, later a bridge — defended by the nearby Château d'Auray. This was the route linking the open sea to the inland territory, which turned Saint-Goustan into a working fishing and trading port. The port itself takes its name from Saint Goustan, patron of sailors and fishermen, a fitting reminder of a place that has lived off the water for centuries.

What is the bridge's connection to Benjamin Franklin?

The bridge leads directly onto the quay now known as Quai Franklin. On 4 December 1776, Benjamin Franklin — American diplomat, physicist and inventor — came ashore right here at Saint-Goustan. Contrary winds had prevented his ship from reaching Nantes, so he covered the final stretch of his crossing by rowing boat, stepping onto French soil at this small Breton port. Franklin had arrived on a diplomatic mission: to persuade the court of Louis XVI to back the young United States in its war of independence against Britain. The mission succeeded — in February 1778 France and the United States signed a treaty of alliance, amity and commerce. In tribute to that arrival, the port's main quay was renamed Quai Franklin in 1927.

What does the bridge look like today?

Pont de Saint-Goustan has kept the modest, stone-built character typical of Breton bridges linking old harbour districts. Standing on it, one side offers a calm view over the Loc'h river, while the other opens onto rows of half-timbered stone houses, cafés and restaurants lining the quay. It is this contrast that draws walkers and photographers, especially at sunset when the light catches the water.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

Once across the bridge, it's worth heading into Auray's old town, with its narrow medieval streets, or following the quayside to see the boats moored in the harbour up close. The port of Saint-Goustan itself, with its stone houses and unhurried atmosphere, has long inspired painters and postcard-makers depicting Brittany.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Pont de Saint-Goustan located? The bridge is in Auray, in the Morbihan department, connecting the town centre with the Saint-Goustan harbour district across the Loc'h river.

Why is the bridge linked to Benjamin Franklin? Because it was at the port of Saint-Goustan, right beside the bridge, that Franklin landed on 4 December 1776 during his diplomatic mission to France.

Is the bridge old? A crossing has existed at this site since at least the 12th century, though the bridge's current form dates from later rebuilding.

What is worth seeing just across the bridge? The Quai Franklin and the historic Saint-Goustan harbour quarter, with its stone houses, cafés and river views.