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Lannion Photonics Cluster
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Industrial site
Lannion, located on the Pink Granite Coast in Brittany, is the historic and technological heart of French telecommunications and photonics. Its industrial ascent began in the 1960s with the establishment of the National Center for Telecommunications Studies (CNET). Today, the region forms the core of the 'Photonics Bretagne' cluster, a globally recognized technopole specializing in light-based technologies. Over 100 companies and research institutes operate here, developing breakthroughs in fiber optics, laser systems, and optical sensors. Lannion serves as a prime example of successful industrial decentralization in France, evolving from a state-run laboratory into a dynamic ecosystem of startups and multinational corporations like Nokia and Orange. The close collaboration between the local engineering school (ENSSAT) and the industry ensures a steady stream of high-level talent for this specialized high-tech sector.
- Location: Bretagne, France
- Top sights: Borne de corvée · Chapelle de l'Institution Saint-Joseph · Carré Magique
- Nearby: Beg-Léguer (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 82 | 64 | 53 | 55 | 53 | 53 | 56 | 44 | 93 | 105 | 104 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Lannion Photonics Cluster is a major center for optics and photonics in Brittany. It brings together research institutes and companies working on fiber-optic communication and laser technology.
Visiting
The labs and production facilities are generally not open to the public, but the science center 'Espace des Sciences' in Rennes shows exhibits. Some companies occasionally hold open days.
Where to view it
From the hill of Lannion, there is a good view of the modern buildings of the technology park and the coast. The beach of Beg-Léguer features a view of the entire bay with the research centers.
Local products
In Lannion's shops, regional products such as Breton honey, cider, and sea salt are available. The proximity to the sea brings fresh oysters and mussels to the local markets.
Active season
Research projects run year-round, but the annual 'Photonics Week' in spring attracts professional visitors. Summer months are quieter for the industry but handy for tourist exploration of the coast.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the town of Lannion and its half-timbered houses or the Pink Granite Coast. The Sept-Îles archipelago is a nature reserve accessible by boat.
Geography
Facts
- In the 1960s, Lannion became the hub for the development of French digital switching technology.
- More than 100 photonics and digital economy firms are based in the Lannion area.
- The Anticipa technopole has supported tech startups in the region for over 30 years.
- Lannion is home to major R&D centers for global telecommunications giants Orange and Nokia.
- The region is a world leader in the development of specialty optical fibers.
- Approximately one in every ten jobs in Lannion is directly related to the high-tech sector.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Lannion Photonics Cluster (10)
Salle des Ursulines
Theatre hall in Lannion.
L'Imagerie
Gallery in Lannion.
Manoir de Crec'h Ugien🏰 castle
Manor in Lannion, France.
L'atelier Blanc
Gallery in Lannion.
La Cale du Flambard
Art gallery, tea room and event programming.
Espace Culturel Sainte-Anne
Cultural centre in Lannion.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lannion a center for photonics?
The Brittany region hosts a major cluster for telecommunications and fiber optics.
Can you visit the research center?
It is primarily a workplace and research site, generally not open to tourists.
What is the 'Photonics Bretagne' cluster?
A network of companies and laboratories working on laser and light technologies.
Are there sights in Lannion for tech fans?
The nearby Cité des Télécoms in Pleumeur-Bodou is a fantastic interactive museum.
How far is Lannion from the coast?
The town sits on a river estuary and is just a few kilometers from the Pink Granite Coast.
Lannion Photonics Cluster: where is it located?
Lannion Photonics Cluster is located in Bretagne, France.
Lannion Photonics Cluster: what is there to see?
Highlights include Borne de corvée, Chapelle de l'Institution Saint-Joseph, Carré Magique.
Lannion Photonics Cluster: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Lannion Photonics Cluster: why is it worth visiting?
Lannion, located on the Pink Granite Coast in Brittany, is the historic and technological heart of French telecommunications and photonics.
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