30 minutes away from Moëlan sur mer, Lorient, the birthplace of the French East India company which traded in textiles, porcelain and spices, is proud of its rich past of seafaring adventures and exotic trade.It is now France's second largest fishing port.
It had a strategic position in Brittany and the Kéroman submarine base was built by the Germans from 1941 to 1943 for attacking the Atlantic convoys. Its presence is the reason why Lorient was at the heart of the battle of the Atlantic.The base was pounded by allied bombers from the allied aircraft but proved to be impregnable. Instead, the allies decided to isolate the base by completely destroying the town of Lorient, but not before giving the inhabitants time to evacuate.That's why there are hardly any old buildings in Lorient.
At the end of the war, it was used by the French navy until 1997 and was very active during the Cold War.Three impressive submarine pens make up the base and Kéroman 3 is open to visitors . We'll take a guided tour. The guides, as well as being knowledgeable are also very helpful and really enthusiastic.
We'll finish our tour with a visit of the submarine Flore. You will be surprised at how cramped it is inside as you imagine the life of the crew members!
Opposite the submarine base, the villa Kerlilon which was requisitioned by Admiral Doenitz in June 1940 and became his headquarters to lead the Battle of the Atlantic. The villa Margaret next to it was built in 1896 and also requisitioned in 1940.It is now a restaurant where we can have a drink and enjoy the view!
The former submarine base has been repurposed ; The bunkers are now boathouses and Lorient La Base has become an ocean racing centre. It is a highly successful offshore racing hub and has become the place where famous sailors prepare for their race and benefit from dedicated infrastructure.
