Lorient, France

Capital City

With just 58,329 residents, Lorient is a small, provincial city on France's western coast. While the town boasts a rich maritime history and vibrant Celtic culture, the harsh climate and persistent bureaucracy can make daily life a challenge. The Allied bombing campaign during World War II razed much of Lorient to the ground, and the city still bears the scars, with only a few 18th-century buildings remaining. For those drawn to Brittany's rugged charms but seeking creature comforts, Lorient may prove a tough sell.