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25 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Brittany

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bounded by the sea and defined by its traditional character, Brittany is a beautiful region in northeastern France with welcoming and interesting places to visit.

Quaint fishing villages are nestled in bays along the Atlantic coastline, while the verdant countryside is dotted with picturesque medieval villages and fairy-tale castles.

The landscape varies from peaceful moors and pristine forests to secluded sandy beaches and dramatic seaside scenery. From its rocky promontories, the craggy northern coastline offers sweeping ocean views.

Brittany is also a land of myths, legends, and fascinating history. The region has a Celtic influence with a dialect related to Gaelic, and the local cuisine is delicious. Crêperies serve " galettes " (savory buckwheat crepes) and dessert crepes with toppings such as caramel, chocolate sauce, and fresh seasonal strawberries.

Bretons take pride in celebrating the ancient custom of "pardons," a special type of pilgrimage when townspeople attend Mass to ask forgiveness for their sins. The pardons also include religious festivals with participants wearing historical costumes.

Endless sightseeing opportunities and authentic local experiences await travelers to this captivating region. Discover the best places to visit and things to do with our list of the top attractions in Brittany.

1. Saint-Malo

5. belle-île-en-mer, 6. morbihan megalithic sites, 7. château de josselin, 9. île d'ouessant (ushant island), 10. côte d'emeraude (emerald coast), 11. côte de granit rose (pink granite coast), 12. cancale, 13. concarneau, 14. pont-aven, 15. crozon peninsula, 16. locronan, 19. la baule, 20. le folgoët, 21. fougères, 22. île de bréhat, 24. rochefort-en-terre, 25. roscoff and île de batz, map of attractions & places to visit in brittany.

Saint-Malo

This quintessential Breton port is a former island near the mainland. Designed as a citadel, Saint-Malo boasts well-preserved medieval fortifications that lend a distinctive character to the city.

During the Second World War, the historic center ( Vieille Ville ) of Saint-Malo was largely destroyed, except for the old walls; the Château de Saint-Malo , which dates to the 14th and 15th centuries; and the Cathédrale Saint-Vincent , which was founded in the 12th century.

The town was rebuilt after WWII in its original style, with granite houses that appear ancient. The city has also retained its medieval ambience because the atmospheric old cobblestone streets have survived the centuries.

Narrow pedestrian lanes lead to bustling public squares and side streets, with many restaurants and crêperies found at every turn. Gracing the Place Chateaubriand is the Hôtel France & Chateaubriand in a neoclassical building modeled after the grand seaside resorts of the Napoléon III era. Guest rooms feature elegant minimalist decor; some look out to the coastline. Amenities include a stylish café, brasserie, and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views.

View of the walled city of Saint Malo and its ramparts

Near the Place Chateaubriand are steps leading up to the ramparts , which date back to the 12th century. A walk around the complete circuit takes about an hour. From the projecting bastions are spectacular vistas of the town, the estuary (with the town of Dinard on the opposite bank), the sea, and the offshore islands.

Below the west side of the ramparts is the Plage de Bon-Secours , a sandy beach with summertime lifeguard surveillance and fantastic facilities, including a seawater swimming pool, showers, restrooms, and a café. The beach also has a view of the Saint-Malo Bay and the town of Dinard in the distance.

St-Malo Map - Tourist Attractions

On the banks of the Odet River, Quimper is a picture-postcard historic town. Visitors are delighted by the authentic atmosphere of this Breton riverside community, with its sweet pastel-painted half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and pedestrian footbridges decorated with potted flowers.

In the center of the town is the Place Saint-Corentin , presided over by Quimper's awe-inspiring Cathédrale Saint-Corentin . Dating to the 13th century, the cathedral is considered Brittany's finest Gothic building. Between the cathedral's two high towers (which were completed in the 19th century), the legendary figure of King Gradion peers above the town.

Across from the cathedral, the Musée des Beaux-Arts displays a wonderful fine arts collection in an elegant neoclassical building. Highlights are the works by French, Italian, Flemish, and Dutch painters, as well as pictures by Max Jacob and the Post-Impressionist painters of Pont-Aven (l'Ecole de Pont-Aven), which included Paul Gauguin, Émile Bernard, Maurice Denis, Paul Sérusier, and Charles Filiger, among others.

Quimper

South of the cathedral, in the former Bishop's Palace, is the Musée Départemental Breton (Breton Museum) with a collection of archaeological objects, folk costumes, ceramics, and artworks, which reveal Brittany's rich cultural heritage. There is also a collection of landscape paintings that depict Brittany's Finistère region.

Quimper was the capital of the Duchy of Cornouaille during the early medieval period and now is the chief town of the département of Finistère in southwestern Brittany. One of the attractions of visiting Quimper is the surrounding countryside of Cornouaille. This stunning, rugged landscape is characterized by its rocky peninsulas and sensational sea views.

There are also many seaside resorts in the area, including Tréboul and the fishing port of Douarnenez . The Pointe du Raz is the most westerly point in Brittany and offers an amazing panoramic outlook from the tip of the promontory.

Fountain on the Place Royale in Nantes, France

At the junction of the Erdre and Loire Rivers, the old Breton port of Nantes has played an important role in history. Nantes was the capital of the Duchy of Brittany during the Middle Ages, and it was here in 1598 that Henry IV signed the Edict of Nantes , which granted freedom of religious belief to Protestants.

Thanks to its advantageous port location, Nantes became a prosperous commercial town from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Nantes has also been a university town since the 15th century. Today, Nantes is still a thriving center of higher education, as well as France's sixth largest city.

Visitors may begin a sightseeing tour of Nantes' top attractions in the historic center at the Château des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes of Brittany), founded in the 15th century by Francois II, one of the last Breton rulers. Surrounded by parkland, this enormous fortress has all the essentials of a medieval castle: a moat, imposing towers, and sturdy defensive walls.

Château des Ducs de Bretagne

The château houses the Musee d'Histoire de Nantes (History Museum of Nantes) on display in the opulent Flamboyant Gothic reception rooms. The diverse collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, model ships, and scientific instruments.

The museum requires an entry fee, while the château gardens and rampart walk are open to the public for free. The Château des Ducs de Bretagne also has a crêperie restaurant, La Fraiseraie , that specializes in crêpes (both savory and sweet), as well as frozen desserts (sorbet and ice cream) made with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The château's bookstore sells souvenirs, toys, special regional candies, and books about the history of the castle and the city.

After touring the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, visitors should continue west of the castle to the historic quarter of Nantes known as the Bouffay district . In this medieval quarter of half-timbered houses, tourists may wander through the maze of winding streets and shop at the enticing boutiques.

In the center of Nantes is the Place Royale , an elegant 18th-century square. Nearby (within a 10-minute walk) is the busy thoroughfare of Rue Crébillon with many shops and restaurants and the Cours Cambronne square that has a small tree-lined green space with park benches.

Nantes Map - Tourist Attractions

The old capital of Brittany, Rennes is still the region's economic and cultural center, as well as a university town. After a fire in 1720, much of the town had to be rebuilt, and more reconstruction was necessary after WWII. Rennes is now a modern city with streets laid out at right angles.

Visitors can begin a walking tour at the Place de la Mairie to admire the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), built in 1734. West of the Place de la Mairie is the Eglise Saint-Sauveur , a lovely church built from the 17th to the 18th centuries. East of the Town Hall is the Place du Parlement de Bretagne encircled by 18th-century houses.

Farther northeast, the Romanesque abbey church of Notre-Dame en Saint-Melaine dazzles visitors with its elaborately sculpted facade and ornately embellished cloister. Several blocks away is the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre with an interesting blend of architectural styles.

Tourists should also take time to stroll the narrow cobblestone lanes around the cathedral where there are perfectly preserved historic houses such as the Hôtel de Blossac at 6 Rue du Chapitre.

Rennes Map - Tourist Attractions

Belle-Île-en-Mer is the largest of the Breton islands but is still only 17 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide. The island's name translates to "Beautiful Island in the Sea," fitting of its sublime natural setting on the Quiberon Bay of Brittany's southwest coast.

The main hub of activity on Belle-Île-en-Mer is Le Palais , an interesting town with many restaurants, hotels, art galleries, and artisans' workshops.

Above the harbor in Le Palais is the Citadelle Vauban , a medieval citadel that was enhanced by French military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban in the 17th century. The site is now a Hôtel-Musée (Hotel-Museum), with the former barracks converted into upscale guest rooms, a museum focused on the history of Belle-Île-en-Mer, and a chic gourmet restaurant.

Picturesque beach on Belle-Île-en-Mer

From Le Palais, there is a route running southwest across the island to the rugged Côte Sauvage (coastline). Southeast of Le Palais is the Plage des Grands Sables , the island's most beautiful beach. This sheltered beach has a fine-sand shoreline and gentle waters. It's a great place for water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing.

The island has three smaller villages. The village of Bangor , on the Côte Sauvage (wildest part of the island), was founded in the 6th century by British monks. Picturesque farmlands surround Locmaria , a rural township on the highest part of the island. Sauzon is a little fishing village with narrow streets and a thriving marina in its well-sheltered harbor.

To arrive at Belle-Île-en-Mer, tourists can take a 45-minute ferry boat ride (available year-round) from Quiberon. From April through October, ferries run from Port Navalo (about 50 minutes) and from Vannes (about two hours). During the high season, private taxi boats run from Quiberon to Belle-Île-en-Mer, and the ride takes about 30 minutes.

Le Grand Menhir in Locmariaquer

A peaceful, protected bay in southern Brittany, the Golfe du Morbihan is connected with the Atlantic Ocean only by a narrow channel. The bay is filled with numerous small islands featuring unspoiled natural scenery. The two largest islands Île aux Moines and Île d'Arz are popular summer vacation destinations (many tourists take a boat trip from Vannes).

Inhabited since prehistoric times, Morbihan is filled with fascinating megalithic sites , unique stone structures that are the most ancient found anywhere in the world (many are older than Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt). These monuments are evidence of a prehistoric culture of which almost nothing is known.

Locmariaquer has some of the most amazing megaliths. "Le Grand Menhir" was the largest stone monument ever erected in prehistoric Europe; this 20-meter-long, 280-ton stone structure was created around 4,500 BCE.

Also in Locmariaquer, the "Table des Marchands , " features enigmatic engravings, and the "Tumulus d'Er-Grah" is a Neolithic monument from 5,000 BCE.

On the Île de Gavrinis is a remarkable Neolithic burial site, the "Cairn de Gavrinis ," built around 4,000 BCE. The pyramid-shaped chamber is intricately decorated and covered with a grassy mound of earth. Engravings depict patterns and symbols such as swirl designs, axe heads, and horned animals. To visit the Cairn of Gavrinis, book tickets in advance.

Circuit des Alignements, Carnac

Carnac on the Quiberon Bay (near Locmariaquer), takes its name from the Celtic word "carn," meaning a stone monument. Visitors are awestruck by Carnac's Neolithic sites including the "Circuit des Alignements , " freestanding circles and rows of stones up to six meters high, and the Tumulus Saint-Michel megalithic monument topped by a small chapel.

One of Europe's best museums of prehistory is found in Carnac, the Musée de Préhistoire , which presents objects discovered at archaeological sites in the area. The collection illustrates the development of humans from 450,000 BC through the Paleolithic Period (Stone Age) and the Neolithic era, up until the Gallo-Roman epoch.

Château de Josselin

With its picturesque canals and pretty half-timbered houses, the medieval village of Josselin is a must-see tourist attraction in the Morbihan area of Brittany. Apart from the town's old-world charm, the highlight of Josselin is its medieval château, which is a perfect example of feudal architecture.

The Château de Josselin has been inhabited throughout the centuries by generations of the Rohan family. The town of Josselin takes its name from the son of the Viscount who built the château.

Presiding over the Oust River valley, this majestic castle dominates the landscape with its soaring walls and turreted towers. The austere exterior contrasts a sumptuous facade on the interior courtyard, exemplifying the Flamboyant Gothic style of the Breton Renaissance.

Tourists may take self-guided tours or guided tours of Château de Josselin to admire the lavish interior. The sitting and dining rooms feature monumental fireplaces, and the library contains more than 3,000 antique books.

Gardens in the Château de Josselin

A formal French garden surrounds the château. Visitors will delight in wandering the perfectly manicured tree-lined lawns and rose garden with 40 different heirloom varieties. The grounds also include a romantic English garden full of lush flowering vegetation, with a picnic area and benches for relaxation.

The château also has a Dolls and Toys Museum , which displays dolls dating back to the 17th century. Many of the dolls are dressed in authentic Breton costumes. With nearly 5,000 items, this collection is the largest of its kind in France.

Official site: http://www.chateaudejosselin.com/en/

The medieval town of Vitre

East of Rennes on the left bank of the Vilaine River, the town of Vitré has a magical old-world ambience complete with ancient town walls and towers. In 1999, Vitré was awarded France's title of " Ville d'Art et d'Histoire " ("Town of Art and History") because it is one of the few medieval towns in Europe that has remained so well intact.

Within this delightful historic town are many quaint narrow lanes and half-timbered houses. The prettiest street is Rue de la Baudrairie , once the quarter of the " baudroyeurs " (saddlers). The town's Gothic church, the Eglise Notre-Dame , was built in the 15th and 16th centuries. The interior features an intricate triptych consisting of 32 panels of Limoges enamel.

Testimony to the town's feudal past is the Château de Vitré , a fairy-tale vision crowning the spur of a rocky outcrop. Classified as a Historic Monument , the grandiose multi-towered and fortified castle was built around 1080 by the Baron of Vitré and renovated during the Middle Ages.

The Château de Vitré is open to the public and houses the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire (Museum of Art and History). The museum displays artworks dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries, along with beautiful gilded reliquaries. There's also an 18th-century apothecary's shop on view.

Chateau des Rochers Sevigne near Vitre

About seven kilometers southeast of Vitré is the Château des Rochers Sévigné , an elegant 15th-century Breton manor house. The château stands in an expansive parkland that includes woods with walking paths.

The celebrated letter-writer Madame de Sévigné stayed here between 1644 and 1690, during which time she wrote letters to her daughter (which are now well known in the French literary canon). In 1689, the son of Madame de Sévigné commissioned royal gardener André Le Nôtre to create the formal French gardens on the estate.

The Château des Rochers Sévigné is open to the public for guided tours ; two rooms of the castle contain a museum collection devoted to Madame de Sévigné. Visitors will see the chapel, the tower, and the garden. The museum displays portraits of family members and other items that Madame de Sévigné cherished.

Île d'Ouessant (Ushant Island)

The Île d'Ouessant is a rugged island with incredible scenery, including treacherous cliffs and rocky promontories beaten by wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Only seven kilometers long and four kilometers across, this small island has an untouched and otherworldly feel.

Along the island's coastline is a ring of lighthouses, essential to the boats traveling by the island at nighttime. The Phare de Créac'h lighthouse on the northwest coast is passed by thousands of ships every year. This location marks the entrance to the English Channel.

Nature is the main attraction of visiting Île d'Ouessant, especially along the island's coastal paths. Île d'Ouessant is known for its indigenous sheep, and the island also has about 400 different species of birds. The best beaches are around the island's main village, Lampaul .

To arrive at Île d'Ouessant, tourists can take a ferry boat (approximately a 2.5-hour trip) from Brest or a shorter (about a one-hour) ferry ride from Le Conquet.

Cap Fréhel, Emerald Coast

This gorgeous stretch of coastline runs along northern Brittany from Saint-Malo to Cap Fréhel. The Côte d'Emeraude includes many wonderful seaside resorts: Dinard (the most stylish), Paramé, Servan-sur-Mer, Rothéneuf, Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, Saint-Lunaire, Lancieux, Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer, and Saint-Cast-le-Guildo, which are linked by a seaside road.

The most striking feature of the Emerald Coast is the Cap Fréhel , which reaches a height of 72 meters above the sea. This vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coast.

Inland from the coast are the towns of Dinan (a picturesque medieval town); Fougères , which boasts an impressive medieval castle; and the Château de Combourg , which was the family home of the 19th-century writer and statesman René de Chateaubriand.

Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast)

Named for the pink color of the rocky coastline, this marvelous seaside route runs between Perros-Guirec and the port of Ploumanac'h. The town of Ploumanac'h has a natural harbor that is a nice area to take a walk.

The Côte de Granit Rose is famous for its incredible rock formations, the Rochers de Ploumanac'h . These imposing weather-beaten rock structures are found between the beaches of Trestraou and Saint-Guirec. Some of the formations are as high as 20 meters, and many seem to take on the shape of recognizable figures such as a witch, Napoleon's hat, and a rabbit.

Visitors can go for a hike along the Sentier des Douaniers (The Custom Officers' Path) to admire the Ploumanac'h rocks. Beginning at the Plage de Trestraou (beach), this eight-kilometer out-and-back trail affords spectacular views of the pink granite landscape and the turquoise waters in the distance. The scenic path runs alongside the sea and traverses wild moors before reaching the yacht-filled marina of the Port of Ploumanac'h.

Tucked away on the Sentier des Douaniers is the Plage Saint-Guirec , a sheltered sandy beach where the calm waters are ideal for swimming, and the Maison du Littoral , which presents exhibits about the Ploumanac'h nature site.

For those who would like to go camping in the area, the Domaine de Trestraou offers sites for tent camping and camper vans. The Domaine de Trestraou is just a short walk from Trestraou Beach and has a water sports center, as well as a mini-golf course and tennis courts.

One of the highlights of this coastal area is Perros-Guirec , a popular seaside resort in Brittany and favorite destination among Breton families. Perros-Guirec has three sandy beaches with kids' clubs, as well as opportunities for water sports during summer.

View over Trébeurden

Trébeurden is another seaside resort that attracts many beach lovers in summer. The historic town of Trébeurden also delights visitors with its artisan craft shops, traditional farmers market, and gourmet restaurants. Visitors will enjoy dining at the town's crêperies, which serve the Breton specialty of buckwheat galettes, and seafood restaurants.

The Restaurant des Rochers in Trébeurden offers exceptional seafood dishes and stunning marina views. Another local restaurant, the Manoir de Lan-Kerellec , has earned a Michelin star for its superb modern cuisine.

Bird-watchers will appreciate the Pink Granite Coast because of its diverse avian life. Brittany's largest bird sanctuary lies nearby on the Sept-Îles (Seven Islands) archipelago. Regular boat trips run from Perros-Guirec and from nearby Port-Blanc to Sept-Îles.

Cancale

Cancale is a tiny fishing village on the Baie de Saint-Michel. The local cuisine makes use of all the fresh seafood. Some of the best restaurants are around La Houle port .

Anyone with a sweet tooth will want to try the pâtisserie boutique and tea salon, Grain de Vanille (12 Place de la Victoire), which serves artisanal pastries, ice cream, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.

For those who would like to learn about oyster production, one of the best places to visit is the La Ferme Marine de Cancale . Located in a protected marine environment, this working oyster farm offers guided tours.

Above the port in the old town of Cancale is the 18th-century Eglise Saint-Méen , devoted to the 6th-century Welsh saint. The church houses the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires , with exhibits about the town's history of seafaring and fishing, as well as a collection of traditional local crafts and costumes.

Every year on August 15th , the town celebrates the Fête de l'Assomption de Marie (Festival of the Assumption of the Virgin) to pay tribute to the Virgin Mary, the protector of sailors, and to honor those who have perished while at sea. The festival's religious procession takes place through Cancale's streets, which are adorned with decorations for the occasion.

Sentier des Douaniers (The Custom Officers' Path) to Pointe du Grouin

Refreshing scenic walks give visitors a chance to discover the coastline around Cancale. The Sentier des Douaniers (The Custom Officers' Path) is a hiking trail that follows the entire coastline of Brittany. The portion from Cancale to La Pointe du Grouin affords spectacular vistas of dramatic cliffs and beaches.

Cancale also has pristine sandy beaches that draw many vacationers during the summertime.

About five kilometers from Cancale overlooking the Bay of Saint-Michel, the Château Richeux is a dreamy three-star Relais & Châteaux property renowned for its fine-dining restaurant, Le Coquillage , which specializes in farm-to-table cuisine and fresh-caught local seafood. The bread served at the restaurant is handmade using organic flour and baked in a wood-fired oven. The hotel has only eleven guest rooms, all of which feature bay views.

Concarneau

At the mouth of the Moros River, Concarneau is France's third largest fishing port. This historic fortified town is a called a " ville close " ("closed city") because it was a 14th-century stronghold entirely enclosed by sturdy granite walls and towers. The defenses were enlarged by Vauban in the 17th century.

This walled town transports visitors back in time. While ambling through ancient narrow streets past old stone buildings and houses adorned with colorful geraniums, visitors are immersed in the medieval ambience. However, Concarneau has enough to keep modern travelers happy; there are plenty of bustling restaurants and interesting shops to discover.

During summertime, Concarneau is a popular seaside destination thanks to its sandy beaches. The Plage des Sables Blancs is a family-friendly beach with a fine white-sand shoreline and rental facilities for water sports. Near the city center, the Plages de la Corniche beaches are found along the Sentiers des Douaniers hiking trail.

Another attraction in Concarneau is the Musée de la Pêche ( Fisheries Museum ), which displays exhibits related to fishing and has a documentation center with publications about maritime activities and fisheries. The museum also presents temporary artistic exhibits with a theme of fishing, sailing, or the sea.

In August, Concarneau hosts Le Festival des Filets Bleus . This traditional Breton festival gives town residents a chance to dress up in period costumes and allows tourists to learn about the local culture. The festival includes a parade, dancing, and games that are unique to the region.

Pont-Aven

About 16 kilometers east of Concarneau, this charming artists' village takes its name from the river running through town. The riverside is lined with shady trees and old mills, a lovely backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Pont-Aven was discovered in the 1860s by American painters but is most famous for its association with post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin and the Pont-Aven art movement. Gauguin arrived in Pont-Aven in 1886, and along with artist Émile Bernard, created a new style of painting known as the "Ecole de Pont-Aven" (School of Pont-Aven).

The village's Musée de Pont-Aven displays many paintings by artists of the Ecole de Pont-Aven. For those who want to take in the scenes that inspired great art, a Painters' Trail map (available at the tourist office) indicates the sites in Pont-Aven and the surroundings that were captured by the School of Pont-Aven painters.

Pont-Aven is a delightful place to visit anytime of year, but is especially enjoyable in early August during the Fête des Fleurs d'Ajonc (Festival of Gorse Flowers). For this summer festival, townspeople dress up in old-fashioned regional costumes, while the streets are animated with traditional Breton dancing and bagpipe music.

Crozon Peninsula

North of Cornouaille and the Pointe du Raz, the craggy Crozon Peninsula is distinguished by its rocky promontories, which offer some of the most outstanding views in Brittany. The peninsula is dotted with numerous seaside resorts including Camaret-sur-Mer, Morgat, and Roscanvel.

The most dramatic location, the Pointe de Pen-Hir rises to a height of 70 meters above the sea, boasting exceptional coastal views, particularly of the isolated crags known as the Tas de Pois. Nearby is a memorial to Bretons who fell in the Second World War.

To the north is the Pointe des Espagnols , with a view of Brest. Between the Pointe de Pen-Hir and the Cap de la Chèvre is the Pointe de Dinan , which provides a stunning view of the monumental rock known as the "Château."

Locronan

In Brittany's picturesque Finistère region, Locronan is one of the most charming towns in Europe . The town is listed as one of the " Plus Beaux Villages de France " (Most Beautiful Villages in France) and " Petite Cité de Caractère " (Small City of Character) because of its magnificent 15th-century church and grand Renaissance houses.

Locronan is a destination for a special type of Breton pardons (pilgrimage festivals) called a " troménie. " The Grande Troménie pardon is held here in July every six years. Similar to a pilgrimage, the Grande Troménie is a 12-kilometer religious procession during which thousands of believers participate in walking prayer. A smaller troménie is held every year.

Near Locronan, just eight kilometers away, is another pilgrimage destination, the Chapelle Sainte-Anne-la-Palud . The chapel boasts a painted granite statue in veneration of Saint Anne, who was executed in 1548.

Just outside the village of Sainte-Anne-la-Palud is a well-sheltered sandy beach known for its breathtaking sunsets.

Dinan

Perched on a hill above the Rance River's left bank (between Dinard and Saint-Malo), Dinan is one of the prettiest towns in Brittany. Still surrounded by its old walls, Dinan's old town boasts handsome late-medieval to Early Renaissance houses (particularly on the Rue du Jerzual) and the monumental 14th-century Château de Dinan (Palais des Ducs de Bretagne).

The château, with its 14th-century dungeon, impenetrable 15th-century fortifications, and imposing towers, recalls the austereness of the Middle Ages. For a glimpse of the medieval era, the château hosts Les Soirées , evening events in which actors in historical costumes bring to life the world of Jean IV, the Duke of Brittany, his knights, and his servants.

Another must-see attraction in Dinan is the Basilique Saint-Sauveur , a church built between the 12th and 16th centuries, which gracefully blends various architectural styles.

An interesting excursion from Dinan is the boat trip down the Rance River to Dinard or Saint-Malo.

Dinard beach huts

Dinard enjoys a splendid natural setting (across from Saint-Malo) along the Rance estuary. Mimosas and camellias flourish here under the influence of the Gulf Stream.

An old fishing village that was transformed into a prestigious seaside resort in the 19th century, Dinard retains its nostalgic charm. Elegant seaside villas; colorful striped beach huts; and a recently renovated historic waterfront hotel, the opulent Grand Hôtel Barrière , reveal the town's Belle Epoque heritage.

Today, Dinard is still considered one of the best beach destinations in France . Dinard has four beaches, which are all supervised by lifeguards during the high season (July and August).

Just north of the old town is the Plage de l'Ecluse, also called the Grande Plage ("Large Beach"), an expansive beach with a fine sand shoreline, and the Plage de Saint-Enogat in the Quarter Saint-Enogat, a good place for water sports; both of these beaches have lounge chairs and cabanas for rent.

Plage de l'Ecluse, Dinard, Brittany

Steps away from the Plage de l'Ecluse , the artisanal ice-cream shop, Vent de Vanille (3 Bis Boulevard du Président Wilson), sells ice cream prepared from organic local milk and sorbet made with seasonal fresh fruit. Vent de Vanille also specializes in mille-feuilles , a crispy layered puff pastry dessert with creamy fillings.

Near a public camp site, the Plage du Port-Blanc offers wild natural scenery and opportunities for water sports such as sailing, canoeing, and windsurfing. Tucked away in a sheltered bay, the Plage due Prieré across from the Port Breton park features beautiful scenery and coastal paths.

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Dinard is take a leisurely walk by the sea or along the palm-fringed waterfront Promenade du Clair de Lune (Moonlight Promenade), which overlooks the Baie de Prieré. The promenade is illuminated in the evenings during July and August.

Besides the beach, Dinard also has gourmet restaurants and many cultural offerings. At the end of September through early October, the town hosts the Festival du Film Britannique (British Film Festival), with a week of film screenings at various cinema venues throughout the town.

La Baule

La Baule is one of France's top Atlantic Coast beach destinations, with a more modern feel than Brittany's 19th-century seaside resorts. Hugging a bay on the estuary of the Loire River between Nantes and Belle-Île island, La Baule has several miles of sandy beaches and a seafront boulevard lined with large hotels, which are packed during the high season.

Apart from sunbathing and swimming, the area is popular for sailing and windsurfing. Near La Baule is the smaller seaside resort of La Baule-les-Pins , and to the east is the Parc des Dryades botanical garden.

About six kilometers away from La Baule is Guérande , a walled medieval town that is best known for its salt marshes. Local artisans harvest the salt by hand, and it is sold all over the world.

In Batz-sur-Mer (eight kilometers from Guérande), the Musée des Marais Salants (Museum of the Salt Marshes) explains the history and techniques of harvesting sea salt.

Basilique Notre-Dame du Folgoët

The medieval village of Le Folgoët is worth visiting to admire the Basilique Notre-Dame du Folgoët , a pilgrimage church that dates to the 14th century and still is an important spiritual destination.

Every day, many visitors come to pay tribute to the Notre-Dame de le Folgoët statue and to say prayers in front of the Virgin Mary.

The church features an exquisite Flamboyant Gothic style and an ornate north tower, which is considered one of the finest in Brittany.

Fougères

The Château de Fougères presides over the charming town of Fougères (50 kilometers northeast of Rennes), nestled in a tranquil landscape of forests and agricultural land. With the appearance of a fairy-tale castle, this formidable château has 13 towers around a circuit of fortifications.

The château was built between the 12th and 15th centuries, representing a period of feudal life in France during the Middle Ages. To immerse visitors in the historical ambience, the Château de Fougères presents spectacles that bring the medieval era to life. On Thursday evenings during summertime, the château stays open late and is illuminated by torchlight, and special events such as medieval games and festivals are held at the château on occasion throughout the year.

The medieval atmosphere continues in the walled old town , an enchanting, enclosed world of quaint half-timbered houses (with lovely examples around the Place du Marchix ). There are also lively outdoor cafés and restaurants that appeal to modern-day tourists.

Other historic attractions in Fougères include the Eglise Saint-Sulpice , featuring a Flamboyant Gothic interior, and the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), which dates from the 14th century.

In a characteristic half-timbered house next to the Town Hall is the Musée Emmanuel de la Villéon , which displays the work of the Impressionist painter who was born in Fougères.

The town of Fougères also boasts a unique museum, the Musée des Métiers de la Chaussure (Shoe Museum) housed in a century-old shoe factory.

Ile de Bréhat

The Île de Bréhat is a tiny island, only three-and-a-half kilometers long. Completely free of cars, this idyllic island is appreciated for its temperate climate and beautiful natural scenery, including many wildflowers and striking red granite cliffs.

The main hub of activity is the village of Le Bourg , which has many cafés, restaurants, and hotels.

To arrive at the Île de Bréhat, visitors may take a ferry boat from the Pointe de l'Arcouest in Ploubazlanec. Ferries run regularly from Paimpol, and the journey takes only 10 minutes.

Vannes

On the Gulf of Morbihan, the historic town of Vannes is halfway between Nantes and Brest. The old town grew up within the ancient walls and around the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre . Dating back to the 13th century, the cathedral has an Italian Renaissance-style rotunda-shaped chapel, which contains exceptional 17th-century tapestries and a valuable treasury.

From the Promenade de la Garenne , there is a fabulous view of the cathedral and the Tour du Connétable, a tower built in the 14th and 15th centuries.

The 15th-century Château Gaillard now houses the Musée d'Histoire et d'Archéologie, a museum focused on the heritage of Vannes, with a collection of archaeological finds, paintings, and objects d'art.

Rochefort-en-Terre

The village of Rochefort-en-Terre (35 kilometers away from Vannes) is listed as one of France's "Plus Beaux Villages" (Most Beautiful Villages) as well as a "Village Fleuris" ("Flowering Village") because of the vibrant flowers that decorate the town.

Tourists should take time to wander around the village through the atmospheric, narrow streets. There are many artists' ateliers , as well as attractive half-timbered and old stone houses featuring window sills bursting with bright geraniums. Potted flowers also adorn the squares and hidden corners of the town.

Surrounded by a tree-shaded parkland, the Château de Rochefort-en-Terre has all the elements of a medieval castle. However, it's actually a 17th-century horse stables that was updated in the 20th century. (The ruins of the original château are found on the grounds.)

In 1907, the Château de Rochefort-en-Terre was purchased by Alfred Klotz, the American painter who invested a fortune to renovate the building. Visitors can admire the exterior of the château while wandering through the park. The interior of the castle is not open for visits.

Roscoff and Île de Batz

Roscoff has the most typically British character of Brittany's ports. Located on a scenic peninsula, the village delights visitors with its lovely harbor, historic shipowners' houses, and an exquisitely decorated Gothic church.

Just three kilometers off the coast from Roscoff is the Île de Batz, a tiny Breton island with a mild climate and serene environment, perfect for relaxation.

Visitors will enjoy the picturesque seaside scenery, sandy beaches, and lush exotic garden on the Île de Batz. During the summertime, ferries run regularly from Roscoff to the Île de Batz.

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The 10 Best Places In Brittany You Don’t Want To Miss!

THE BEST PLACES IN BRITTANY, FRANCE

When Southern Brittany Blew Our Socks Off With Its Pretty Places…

I mean, we shouldn’t have had socks on in the first place because Brittany, France, is the kind of region where people live in their flip-flops (or wellies), but hey, we’re British!

Southern Brittany is also the kind of region where some days you even question if you are still in France at all. After spending 2 weeks on the road visiting the Loire, Dordogne, Alsace and Auvergne in France, Brittany was a contrast that was quite distinct.

We had visited a few places on the north coast of Brittany a couple of years ago and picked up a distinct non-French feel in parts, but the south side has a much more relaxed vibe with some of the best places in Brittany.

In this article we will tell you a bit about Brittany’s history which has carved this beautiful French region, give you some suggestions on where to stay and list our favourite things to do in Brittany….

Brittany best places to go

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT BRITTANY, FRANCE

To visit Brittany is to feel its history and whilst you might be eager to get to our list of Place’s To Visit In Brittany , we think it’s worth considering a quick outline of its bygone years – its historical personality pop’s up in whichever places in Brittany you choose to visit. So here we go…

Over a thousand years ago Anglo-Saxons invaded Britain and upset a few people, especially the Celts, as they attempted to unite the new nation with a collective language. The Celts weren’t ready to give up their traditions and mother tongue so many upped sticks and emigrated across the channel to the area of Brittany in France. Today Brittany is still classed as one of the 6 official Celtic lands (Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Cornwall and the Isle of Man are the others). And it’s these ancient people who give the region of Brittany a completely different feel to the rest of France! 

Whereas the north of Brittany has towns with reputations stemming from the 20th century (whether that be associations with World War 2 or the booming sea-side resorts built for the rich and famous), South Brittany still has a foothold in a more ancient past with its pretty granite towns like Locronan and Vannes and the even more ancient Neolithic stones of Carnac . It also has a host of plus beaux villages  (France’s list of towns which Walt Disney must’ve gotten a hold of in his princess days) to visit and coo over. 

If you are toying with visiting Brittany in France, and are wondering which part of the region would be best, here are some of our highlights from a week in the south. The best things to do in Brittany and the most beautiful places to visit…

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All the best bits of Brittany you really don't want to miss | 10 Best Things To Do In Brittany, France | Travel tips for Brittany | pretty towns | places to stay #BrittanyFrance #Vannes

THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN BRITTANY

Wondering where to stay in brittany, france.

If you are still in the planning stages of your Brittany holiday we can definitely help with your decision on where to stay, otherwise, skip to the Best Things To Do In Brittany list below.

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN BRITTANY FOR A SHORT BREAK?

Depending on what you like to get out of a holiday will decide on which area of South Brittany will suit you best. If you are only able to do a short break in Brittany then the small city of  Vannes would definitely be the best place to stay. Many hotels in Vannes don’t require that you stay a minimum number of nights so it’s perfect for a short break choice.

It’s a beautiful medieval town and perfectly located for day trips to the Gulf of Morbihan for some of the best beaches in Brittany. You are also only a short drive from the beautiful ‘plus beaux ville’ town of Rochefort-en-Terre and the achingly pretty port of St Goustan in Auray , plus those ancient Carnac stones we mentioned earlier. There are so many interesting things to do in Brittany and Vannes puts you in a prime location for day trips.

where to stay in Brittany South

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRITTANY FOR A WEEK’S SUMMER HOLIDAY?

You will find, especially in Summer, a lot of hotels and accommodation in Brittany will only let you book for a week. Because of that, you may want to choose one spot as a base and explore the region from there. Roads can be slow in Brittany, especially around the little towns and beaches as the speed limits are quite restrictive. Therefore, if you’re visiting the south of Brittany, choosing a base close to the main road N165 will speed up any journeys you might want to do.

Some of the best towns in Southern Brittany you might want to visit on that stretch are; Auray , with its magical medieval port area, Saint Goustan , and the area around the town of Pont Aven if you want access to the Natural Park Armorique for hiking and rustic isolated beaches.

The further west you go in Brittany, the more remote it gets, so if you’re all up for having the place to yourself but offsetting that with a lack of restaurants, shops and just life in general, the west side of Brittany, France would make a detached and special holiday if loneliness is your thing. I did have my eye on Hotel de la Plage near Plonevez-Porzay at one point as it’s right on the beach, it came highly recommended and the hotel is so beautiful you could really live in luxury for a few days! But, with so many places to visit in Brittany, we chose Auray Saint Goustan.

hotel on the beach in Brittany

Hotel De La Plage

We have spent time around Auray, the Gulf of Morbihan and between Lorient and Quimper and we cannot fault Auray as one of the best places to stay in Brittany. There are plenty of amenities (including a great choice of hotels and restaurants) and if you do want to spend a day exploring the west coast from here, quick access to the N165 makes this more than possible. 

places to stay in Brittany

La Villa Bel Ange

La Villa Bel Ange is a cute little hotel by the water in a serene peaceful setting. The nearest town is Saint-Philibert but you’re only a 15 minute drive from Auray Saint Goustan. The rooms have balconies and there is a hotel terrace also, it’s the perfect kind of place to kick back and relax. You can see the sea through the trees in the garden and there’s also a lovely coastal walk at the back of the hotel.

Hotel in Brittany

Miramar La Cigale Hotel and Spa is another beautifully modern hotel situated in the Gulf of Morbihan. Maybe not the best place to stay in Brittany for day trips to the west of the region but still an easy distance to Vannes and Rochefort-en-Terre. The balcony views are stunning and you have some of the best Britanny beaches on your doorstep.

The Best Places In Brittany To Visit

Before we visited this part of France many of the Brittany travel guides I read described the region to be like Cornwall in the UK. And, it has to be said that if you were dropped from space onto a Brittany country lane, you would probably think you’d landed in Cornwall. Slatestone walls, gorgeous little cottages and typical hydrangeas to a back-drop of sea-side pines definitely is a theme. However, beyond the picturesque villages and cliff-side drops to the Atlantic, Brittany has so much more to offer. From medieval cities and ports to little seaside estuaries, plus beaux ville’s and hidden beach coves. Here are our top recommendations for ‘must-see’ Brittany tourist attractions…

THINGS TO DO IN BRITTANY

If you were just here for a short break, Vannes is probably one of the best places to visit in Brittany for sampling some excellent Bretagne food, doing a bit of shopping, and absorbing a slice of history. You’d have no need to go beyond the ancient medieval walls of this charming town, and it’s a pretty sturdy representation of Brittany life.

Places to visit in brittany - vannes

As a gateway to the Gulf of Morbihan (Brittany’s archipelago collection of 42 islands almost closed off from the Atlantic), this Vannes absolutely got its roots from its geographical location to the sea. It began life as a Roman settlement but soon became a vulnerable town, explaining the ancient ramparts. There’s no prettier place to view these foreboding walls and towers than from the Jardin des Ramparts adjacent to La Marle River . As if a mathematician dreamed up a garden you can stroll through pristine lawns of precise topiary and colourful flowerbeds that were clearly designed on graph paper. And, before you enter either the Porte Gambetta or Porte Poterne at either end, take note of Vannes’ answer to the medieval washing machine – Les Vieux Lavoirs, the quaint timber-framed wash-houses.

Back inside the protective walls, Vannes churns out all sorts of examples of architecture where ancient and slightly less ancient buildings woo the tourists. Around Cathedrale Saint Pierre the rainbow timber-framed houses and shops lean over little squares of pavement cafes and cobbled streets. Then at Place Henri IV, Vannes shows off its unique cantilevered buildings where homes were built with larger top floors like a row of expanding souffles in the oven vying for space as they mushroom out. 

Whether you are shopping, eating or simply wandering, Vannes has you wrapped in a beautiful medieval scene of ancient city life and just being here makes you feel more attractive! It’s like France got frozen in time on one of its best days, when everyone had simultaneously finished their spring clean or was just about to put their house on the market. Vannes was definitely one of the best towns in Brittany we visited!

vannes highlights

Travel Tips

  • Check out the indoor market Halles des Lices near Porte Poterne for lunch. Grab what you want from the stalls and head over to the corner to find a seat. The wine guy near the seating area really knows his stuff and can find you a glass of something lovely to compliment your meal.
  • Vannes’ market days are Wednesday and Saturday in the mornings. Parking can be a little harder at these times so arrive early.
  • There is a land train down by the marina which churns out a monologue of interesting history if you don’t mind looking like an overgrown child for half an hour.
  • Vannes shopping is unrivaled locally as the town is awash with good French high street names, a kindly amount of gift shops and plenty of independent concept stores to interest all tastes. Add to that all the different varieties of food shops too and you’ll never want to leave.

2. Quiberon

Quiberon has a quidditch team, is famous for canned sardines, and is almost an island. If all of that hasn’t piqued your curiosity then just make a visit for the same reason most tourists stop off here : one of the nicest things to do in Brittany is go for coastal walks to take in the ruggedly beautiful landscape and Quiberon is one of the best places to do this. 

Quiberon juts out into the sea for 9 miles and at its narrowest point is only 22 meters thick. This dramatic-looking area of Morbihan is renowned for its rugged coastline and rustic fishing villages, along with a healthy handful of clean sandy beaches.

On the west coast of Quiberon, the waves are so rough that swimming is forbidden. But, the sand dunes, sea caves, and heathland make it the perfect spot for some picturesque hikes – if a little bracing. And, if you’re looking for places to surf in Brittany, Quiberon has a couple of good swells.

things to do in Brittany, France - hiking in Quiberon

Conversely, the east coast of Quiberon is more sheltered and definitely attracts those just wanting a serene spot to sunbathe, less exposed to the elements. It’s also the stretch where a handful of blue and white fishing villages provide content for postcard-makers! One of the best places in Brittany for beach-lovers for sure.

3. Locronan

The first thing that strikes you about Locronan is that you feel like you just walked onto a film set. To be fair though, you actually did. Yet, despite being the set location for several very famous French films, including ‘A Very Long Engagement’, people actually still live in this 17th-century vista. It’s the lack of road signs and painted tarmac along with the heavily preened shop fronts and gardens that give it away but life goes on in Locronan like nothing major ever happened. 

Visit Locronan - Brittany's best places to see

You might notice the grandeur of some of the homes and also surmise that huge churches like the one in the main square don’t just build themselves, and you’d be right : Locronan was once a wealthy town because of the skilled weavers selling to Navy’s worldwide. But then sails went out of fashion, Locronan lost its livelihood and the town’s appearance stood still as younger folk moved to the cities for work. What comes from that is a pickled village – like a handsome jar of gherkins, Locronan stayed eternally old and unmodified. Definitely worth a half-day’s visit, although probably found on most Best Places To Visit In Brittany lists so you do have to share this beauty with a handful of other tourists.

  • Parking on the street only spoils photos; there is one main car park with ample parking and is only a couple of minutes walk to the centre.
  • Glassware, ceramics, leather, weaving, embroidery, lace and silver are just some of the many crafts displayed in shops around Locronan. It’s the perfect place to pick up some original Celtic products.
  • About a mile out of town is the Locronan summit with amazing views of the Douarnenez Bay 5 miles away. It’s a nice hike from the main square.

4. The Rhuys Peninsula

The Gulf of Morbihan is an inlet protected from the Ocean by an arm of land known as the Rhuys Peninsula. This hooked peninsula has two main towns, Sarzeau and Arzon , which probably aren’t worth your time for a day trip – busy port towns with not a great deal to see other than boats. However, both the north and south coasts of the Rhuys peninsula offer a great deal in terms of Brittany tourist attractions. 

The geography of this stretch of land makes the coast which faces the ocean a sheltered part of Brittany and home to many lengths of beautiful and rugged sandy beaches. With less wind than some of the other beaches in Brittany’s southern region, this is where you’ll catch the sunbathers. But it doesn’t stop there – towards the tip of the peninsula, south of Arzon, there are some incredible cliff-top walks and ancient sights like the  Cairn du Petit Mont , a huge dry stone burial chamber and Château de Suscinio , a former hunting lodge of the Dukes of Brittany.

best places to visit in southern brittany

This area of Brittany is synonymous with the food this part of France is famous for, so if you’re a foodie you really mustn’t miss a trip to some of the towns of the Rhuys Peninsula. Saint-Armel has the salt farms and cider makers, whilst Le Tour de Parc is where you need to be for the best wild oysters in Brittany, some say France. La Perle de Quehan , a little hidden gem, is a cute little restaurant that came highly recommended to us by our Airbnb host. They have an outdoor terrace, which on a summer evening proposes the most perfect backdrop (Quehan bay) and serves both Pacific and Belon oysters. You could make a hobby out of Oyster-sampling in Brittany with all their different varieties and the Rhuys peninsula is the perfect place to start!

  • This is a very family-friendly area of Brittany and easy to find accommodation near little coves and sandy beaches. Many homes for rent in this area have boats, bikes and other equipment for guests to use and even in August the roads are quiet and safe for children to play. If you’re looking for somehwere to stay in Brittany with the familiy we found Villa Charles & Ashton in a beautiful location,right on the beach and sleeping up to 18 people – it would be a great choice for a few families needing a large villa with all the amenities.
  • You would definitely need to hire a car if you were staying in the Rhuys peninsula as public transport is limited.

5. Auray Saint-Goustan Port 

Whilst the little town of Auray is quaint in a typically Bretagne kinda way, with its window boxes and cobbled streets, it’s Port Saint-Goustan that truly impresses. By all means though, take a wander up the steep high street of Auray and have a peek in their many art galleries and bespoke gift shops – but cute Brittany towns aren’t hard to come by so you won’t be missing out if you have to pass on this one. However, Saint-Goustan is another matter altogether, a definite Brittany highlight!

If you take a left at the top of the Auray high street you will circle round to one of the best views of this gorgeous port… 

best places to visit in southern brittany

Like a town that time forgot, Saint-Goustan has to be one of the most attractive places in all of Brittany! Built in the 17th century for a booming trade it happily got to keep its pleasing aesthetics when nearby Lorient port was built to take over and keep up with the increasing Brittany imports and exports.

Other than a handful of restaurants, cafe’s and art shops a few hours in Saint-Goustan mostly encompass a stroll along the promenade to watch the fishermen mend their nets. There is often a market, very French with mostly crockery and books, and in the evenings there is every chance you might be treated to some music from Saint-Goustan’s very own (aging) Ed Sheeran. Or, if you’re lucky, a bunch of locals gathered for an evening of French Salsa with their friends – accompanied by wine of course.

Saint Goustan Brittany, France

  • As we’ve already mentioned, Auray-Saint-Goustan is one of the most perfect places to stay in Brittany – there are plenty of eating establishments around to keep the holiday cooking down.
  • If you are only visiting for a few hours, try to catch the Port at the back end of the day, during the golden hour – it’s really quite a sight. Plus, there’s a fantastic buzz around the square. Take a drink at Le Yac’h along the promenade (if you can find a seat) as it’s the perfect place for a spot of people-watching with a Cidre in hand.
  • There are parking places on the roads around the town but you are more likely to find a space on Quai Neuf parallel with the River d’Auray.

We wrote more about our visit to Auray Saint Goustan in this post.

6. Rochefort-en-Terre

Not all ‘ plus beaux villes’  are created equal. We were slightly disappointed by the nearby PBV village of La Gacilly when we were out one day, in search of all the best places to visit in Brittany, but finishing off the second half of our day in Rochefort-en-Terre was the enhancement we needed.

France's prettiest town - Rochefort-en-terre

Maybe it’s where all the retirees in theatre production and set-design buy houses, or maybe you have to sit an aesthetics exam before you can purchase a property? Otherwise, I just could not fathom how they manage to continually keep the place looking so gorgeous. In 2016 it was voted the most beautiful village in France, and several years later it doesn’t seem to have lost any of its charm. So what’s so good about Rochefort-en-Terre?

Well unless you hate fairytales – everything! It’s so picture-perfect you begin to wonder if real people live in this place, or have you just stumbled upon a theme park of a Medieval Shopping Centre? Artisan shops are owned by super-friendly locals who are actually pleased you’re visiting their little town… I know, right! And in between making their bespoke jewelry, leather goods and social charms they all somehow have managed the art of window-boxing too.

Break up your souvenir browsing with a café au lait at one of the town’s little coffee stops, then have a fresh crêpe for lunch. Wander the streets and sample some goodies from the many chocolate, nougat and cake shops. It’s an easy walk (slightly steep) up to the ancient Château of Rochefort-en-Terre and an interesting wander. Also, peep your head into the old church too for a little bit of sacrosanct sparkle. In review, Rochefort-en-Terre is one of the most enchanting places of interest in Brittany.

best places to eat Rochefort-en-terre, Brittany

  • There is ample free parking in Rochefort-en-Terre, at either end of the town.
  • Depending on the month, the castle and museum might be closed on Monday and Tuesdays.
  • Several shops close at midday for a couple of hours.
  • If you’re on a tour of Brittany castles, the nearby Josselin Castle is only a 40-minute drive away – the two places amount to a great Brittany day trip in our opinion.

7. Saint Cado

house in the water, Saint-Cado, Brittany

Saint Cado was one of those places it took me ages to find. I’d seen photos of this little island house all over Instagram but uncovering its location was another matter – it’s a little bit of a Brittany hidden gem! And, apart from anything else, I had a feeling we’d just be doing a quick drive-by for a cheeky photo and there’d be not a lot more to discover. But, Saint Cado ended up making it onto my ‘Best Places In Brittany’ list! 

It had everything I look for in a holiday day trip; cute little places to have half a shandy (complete with terraces and views), a pleasant little amble to walk off the holiday laziness, a handful of artisan shops and artists with their easels and pristine houses to slyly and nosily take a peek into! And then, as if that’s not enough – it has this beautiful little house off to shore all on its own, ripe for the photo-taking.  

The area has been fished for decades – tuna, sardines and oysters predominantly – and the little house which sits on a piece of bedrock in the middle of the Étel estuary once belonged to an oyster farmer. He must have had a nightmare getting his Tesco delivery! Still, we sat on the bridge for over 20 minutes just dreaming up stories in our heads about life in that little cottage. Want to know my Brittany highlight – Saint Cado it is.

house on an island, Saint-Cado, Brittany, France

Île de Saint-Cado is connected to the mainland by an old stone bridge and once you reach the islet it’s worth taking the 20-minute stroll around its periphery for pretty views of coves and river vistas. The little fishing village is old, like really old, and the main square is dominated by a 12th-century chapel. Local cottages are the typical Brittany style with pretty blue shutters and gardens of pink and blue hydrangeas. We were not sorry we’d put in the effort to visit.

  • Driving around Saint Cado is not encouraged, unless you are staying there as it’s the lack of cars that adds to the charm of this cute little Brittany town, so park at the car park off Rue des Jardins in Saint-Cado and walk the 5 minutes to the bridge. 
  • This little area around the Étel estuary has its own micro-climate and there are several sandy beaches along the mouth of the river which are slightly more sheltered than other beaches in Brittany. Several are well-known kite-flying spots too so if you want something to watch whilst you sunbathe, perfect! We loved Plage de Kerminihy which backed onto some beautiful and protected sand-dunes – the flora and fauna were quite unique.

8. The Carnac Stones

Nicknamed ‘France’s Stonehenge’ you can well imagine this is one of the top Brittany tourist attractions. If you are planning on visiting the Carnac Stones in Brittany, the first thing you need to know is that from October to March it is free, but from April to September you can only visit as part of a guided tour – this solution has kept down the problem of overcrowding and damage limitation in the busiest holiday seasons.

visiting the carnac stones France Brittany

Questions like; what are the Carnac Stones? How did they get there? and what were they used for? will all go unanswered when visiting this ancient site – but they’ll certainly provoke some interesting conversations. What we do know though is that this is the largest megalithic site in the world, here in Carnac, France. And, better preserved than some of its contemporaries too. 2,800 individual ancient standing stones span 4 kilometers and reach 4 meters tall in some instances – they really are a sight to behold.

We think the best way to appreciate these Neolithic alignments is to take the Megaliths Trail – a 7km Carnac walk starting in Place de l’Eglise in the centre of Carnac. It takes in some stunning panoramic views, enough stones to last a lifetime, and is the perfect way to see a bit of the Brittany countryside’s flora and fauna. You can pick up a map from the tourist information office in Carnac, or alternatively download a PDF of it here .

9. Trinité-sur-Mer

If there was ever a pretty Brittany town that rang of that busy Cornish vibe, it’s the port of Trinité-Sur-Mer. Sailing schools, yacht clubs and shops full of Breton stripes and boat shoes entice the rich and famous to drop anchor for a few days and blend in with the other million boat owners. It certainly isn’t one of the prettiest towns in Brittany but it has energy and activity in spade-fulls.

The sea is the lifeblood of a true Breton and half of Bretagne own their own boat – that makes Trinité-Sur-Mer the push-off point for weekend ocean adventures. But it’s equally as busy on a week-day during summer and the traffic jams through the town become an interesting exercise in ‘spot the sugar-daddies and gold-diggers. 

Trinite - sur - mer; places to visit in Brittany France

It feels like an upper-class seaside resort where the uber-privileged rub shoulders with native Bretons – the only way to tell them apart is to walk downwind; natives don’t wear aftershave in the daytime!

Still, it’s a happy stop-off for some fine seafood restaurants, complete with terraces overlooking the beautiful harbour. And a great place for a bit of window shopping. Plus, you’re only a five-minute drive to the next town of Carnac (home of the neolithic stones) which pulls you back in time and is the perfect complement to the modern living of Trinité-Sur-Mer: a good combo of places to go in Brittany for a day-trip.

10. Josselin Castle

Castle-hunting was always going to be on our list of things to do in Brittany  – who doesn’t love a French Chateau!? Fougères, Guildo and Hermine are some of the other Brittany castles we’ve visited before but Château Josselin is a must-see tourist attraction.

Sitting handsomely on the edge of the Oust River this impressive medieval structure is still the family home of the 14th Duke of Rohan. And once you’re up close and personal it’s impossible to not be impressed by all the details and manicured formal gardens. Inside is equally as intriguing as the guided tour tells the stories behind royal gifts, lavish dining rooms and artwork from the Greats. 

The town isn’t too shabby either and becomes a little more alive in the imagination once you’ve taken the castle tour and learned the connections to the townsfolk of yesteryear. In fact, the whole area gives off a fairytale essence, especially when you consider it was in the nearby forest of Paimpont – legendary King Arthur’s forest of Brocéliande where Merlin was imprisoned and the fountain of youth exists! However, the town of Josselin has its own magical forest, Bois d’Amour (or Love Wood) which is the most pleasant of spots for a family picnic. 

  • Josselin Castle is only open to the public from April – October.
  • Tours are mostly in French but there is usually one English-speaking tour a day – check their website for times (it was 2.30pm when we visited).
  • The Chateau also has a well-stocked Doll Museum if you are looking for things to do with kids on your holiday.
  • Saturday is market day in Josselin.

best places to visit in southern brittany

So there you have it, our Top 10 Places To Visit in Brittany. There are so many things to do in Brittany, we know you are going to LOVE it!

Brittany Travel Tips

Getting there….

There are so many Brittany attractions across the whole region but in our opinion the south is quite different from the north and if you are planning a Brittany vacation we would suggest picking an area and sticking to it. This post has concentrated mostly on places to visit in South Brittany because this was our most recent trip but we have had some fabulous holidays around the towns of St Malo and Dinard too – maybe that’s a post for another day!

DRIVING TO BRITTANY, FRANCE

If you are planning on driving to Brittany in France, to give you some perspective it’s about 6 hours from the Calais side of the Channel Tunnel to Vannes in Brittany. It’s also only around 4 hours from Paris if anyone was considering a two-stop holiday itinerary, tying in the capital.

FLYING TO BRITTANY

Alternatively, you can also fly into Brittany; there are several airports in Brittany doing commercial flights – Dinard, Brest, Nantes and Rennes. Most encompass budget airlines too so Brittany can make for a really cheap weekend break from the UK if you play your cards right. Dinard Airport has no public transport though so hiring a car beforehand is essential.

TAKING THE TRAIN TO BRITTANY

Train travel in France is easy, convenient and quick – you can get to Rennes from Paris in about 1.5 hours. Vannes also has a train station too.

WHERE TO STAY IN BRITTANY

Location-wise, if you are the kind of traveller who wants lots of things to do in Brittany then the area around Vannes would be a great base. You have a choice of old timber-framed towns, beach resorts and harbours – if you skipped our recommendations scroll back up to our Where To Stay In Brittany section.

BRITTANY WEATHER

Many Brits will tell you it has the perfect climate for summer holidays – not too hot and a wonderful gentle breeze from the sea. Temperatures reach the mid-20s in July and August and evenings often require a light jacket still. The breezes are mostly south-westerly though so they provide respite from the midday sun, not a chilly annoyance!

So there you have our best of Brittany top 10 recommendations. It’s a region of history, culture and charm though, so there is so much more to see than we have documented. In fact, we would return again in a heartbeat. 

What about you? Do you have any travel plans to visit this part of France?  Drop us a line if you have any Brittany travel questions, we’ll always try and help. 

MORE TIPS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY IN FRANCE, FROM OUR ARCHIVES;

  • The 10 Best Things To Do In Lyon, France
  • Visiting Futuroscope In Vienne, France
  • France’s Prettiest Port Town – Honfleur, Normandy
  • Travel Diaries Of Alsace  
  • Travel Diaries Of Strasbourg
  • Visit Auray-Saint-Goustan – The Port That Time Forgot

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you book from our website we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every little helps, so thank you from My Life Long Holiday. x

Our Top 10 list of the Best Places To Visit in Brittany, France. Beatiful beaches, pretty cities and amazing landmarks. #Brittany #France Brittany France Travel

5 Comments Add yours

  • Pingback: Things To See And Do In Breton France – chaletcouleursdefrance.com

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I am planning a trip to S Brittany to celebrate golden wedding anniversary in September Can you please recommend a good restaurant ? Many thanks

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Hi. What immediately came to mind was Le p’tite Goustan in Auray St Goustan when you said wedding anniversary. A really special place in such a romantic setting. Check out my post on Auray St Goustan to get a better feel for the town. Have a lovely trip!!

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Greetings! Can you please tell me where is the location in Brittany of the photo which is posted directly under the paragraph title A BRITTANY SHORT BREAK? Thank you so very much. We are booking an itinerary right now. Kindly, Katharine

Hi. It’s called Pont-Aven, just to the west of Lorient. It’s only small but very cute.

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Best Things to Do in Brittany, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Brittany (Bretagne) France

La Bretagne – Brittany in English –  is one of the most beautiful regions of France, with wild landscapes, historical cities, rich culture, and a strong identity. It is a region of tradition and character, where the stories of sailors meet the Celtic legends.

Brittany, in Western France ,  has a double face deeply rooted in both the land and the sea. Bathed by the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean , Brittany offers breathtaking coastal landscapes. It is also a land of medieval towns, mysterious rock alignments, and deep forests full of legends.

Region of Brittany - France

The region of Brittany is divided into four departments: Côtes-d’Armor (22), Finistère (29), Ille-et-Vilaine (35), and Morbihan (56). The capital of Brittany is Rennes .

Are you planning a trip to Brittany, France? Our list of best things to do in Brittany is far from exhaustive, but it has the essential places to visit in Brittany and the main Brittany tourist attractions.

Related posts

Martigues - Southern France

Brittany Travel

BY PLANE: Brest  (BES) and  Rennes  (RNS) are the 2 major airports in Brittany. It is possible to travel to Brest and Rennes from other cities in France and some cities in the UK such as London, Manchester, Dublin, Southampton, Manchester, or Exeter.

Find cheap flight tickets to Brittany

BY FERRY: Brittany is well connected with the UK and Ireland through the ports of Roscoff and St-Malo . The ferry companies serving these destinations are Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries.

Book your ferry to Brittany

BY TRAIN: Traveling to France by train is straightforward. The main cities of Brittany are served by TGV trains from Paris and the south of France (Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille). It is also possible to travel to Brittany by train from England, taking the London-Rennes or London-Brest railway line.

You can explore many other places in Brittany by regional trains (TER Bretagne).

Book your train tickets to Brittany

Explore Brittany by Car

Brittany is a great place for memorable France road trips . With a car, some good tunes, and the best company, you are set for one of the best adventures in your life. Visit the main cities and then go off the beaten path to get the most out of Brittany.

Recommended road trips in Brittany:

  • Road trip Dinan to Mont St-Michel

If you don’t have your own car, we recommend booking in advance through platforms like Discover Cars . This site takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, etc., and compares prices for you.

Browse Car Rental Companies Available in Brittany

What to Do in Brittany France

Ile Vierge Lighthouse - Plouguerneau

What to do in Brittany France for one week or two? This is our list of the best things to do in Brittany, France. From coastal walks and Corsaire cities to impressive castles and deep forests, the Brittany Region is a myriad of landscapes and sites waiting to be discovered.

The Alignments of Carnac (Karnag)

Carnac Stones - Brittany

The alignments of Carnac are located in Morbihan , Southern Brittany. It is an exceptional site of megalithic alignments of more than 3,000 menhirs over more than 4 kilometers. These menhirs, erected between 6,000 and 2,000 AD, are found in four sites: Le Ménec , Kermario , Kerlascan, and Le Petit Ménec .

Take the time to wander around the giant stones and soak up the special atmosphere of the site: perhaps you will find the meaning of all these alignments!

Before leaving, check out the Kermario alignment, not far from Carnac, in Saint-Colomban: archaeologists have found along the coast the oldest forms of habitat, 300,000 years old!

A Romantic Getaway to Dinan

Dinan - Brittany

If you are wondering where to go in Brittany for a romantic getaway, Dinan is a good option. Overlooking the Rance River and surrounded by ramparts, the old medieval city of Dinan still keeps its half-timbered houses of the 15th century and its winding cobbled streets.

Visit the Clock Tower, the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, and the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Then take Jerzual street, the most famous street of Dinan, which goes down to the port on the Rance River. This is the perfect spot for a drink with beautiful river views.

TIP: Hotel Ibis Styles , in the heart of Dinan, has always great reviews

The Pink Granite Coast

Pink Granite Coast - Brittany

On the side of Perros-Guirec in the northwest of Côtes-d’Armor, the Brittany coast is dotted with rocks, cliffs, and coves in pink granite.

The best way to discover the Pink Granite Coast is by taking the 4 km section of the Sentier des Douaniers coastal hike (GR 34) that runs from the chic seaside resort Perros-Guirec to the village of Ploumanac’h. En route, be amazed by the rough sea, many uninhabited islets, and the reliefs of pink granite rocks.

When you reach the village of Ploumanac’h , voted the most beautiful village in France in 2015, spend some time on its beautiful and small sandy beach: when the tide is low, it is like walking over the moon.

Crozon Peninsula –  The Caribbean in Western France

Crozon Peninsula - Brittany

Who needs to travel far away with such beautiful landscapes in Western France?

Forming a gigantic cross in the sea, the Peninsula of Crozon (Presqu’ile de Crozon) offers Brittany’s condense. Its landscapes alternate spectacular cliffs, heather moors, and turquoise waters. As you can see, these Brittany beaches have nothing to envy to the Caribbean beaches, except perhaps the water temperature!

The Peninsula of Crozon is best explored from the sea so that you can see Crozon’s sandstone walls and rocky overhangs. Boats leave from the ports of Camaret or Morgat.

The Castles of Brittany

Château de Rohan - Brittany

Brittany is full of castles and fortresses, located on the coast but also inland. The Castles in Brittany don’t look like the castles of France we all have in mind, but they are also stunning constructions worth visiting.

Discover the history of Brittany – independent of the Kingdom of France until 1532 –  by visiting its most beautiful castles, full of legends. Some castles in Brittany even come with a phantom in the closet!

The list of most beautiful castles of Brittany includes Château de Rohan , Château de Kerjean , Château de Fougères , Château de Josselin or Château de Susscinio but there are many more!

The Sweet Life in Gulf of Morbihan

Gulf of Morbihan

With its many islands and islets, its microclimate that warms the sea, and its sweet life, the Gulf of Morbihan is one of Brittany’s most beautiful landscapes to discover all year.

In this ‘little sea’ – this is what the word ‘Morbihan’ means – it is possible to sail or kayak to discover islands and islets protected from the vagaries of the ocean and some pretty Brittany coastal towns.

Among the fifty or so islands of the Gulf, Île aux Moines is the largest and best known, while the Île d’Arz is sailors’ favorite.

The Enchanted Brocéliande Forest

Brocéliande Forest

Inland, Brittany offers rugged hilly landscapes and majestic ancient forests, such as the mysterious and dark Brocéliande forest . This is a very authentic place, the forest where the famous legends of King Arthur, Morgana, and Merlin were born.

During your walks in the shade of ancient trees, you will have the opportunity to see some remarkable sights like the Tomb of Merlin, or the Tomb of the Giant and the Fountain of Youth, specially designed to illustrate the Arthurian legends.

Brocéliande forest is one of the best places to visit in Brittany, France, very easy to visit on a day trip from Rennes. For those without a car, we recommend taking a day tour.

Saint-Malo – The Corsair City

Saint Malo - Brittany

Saint-Malo is one of the most beautiful cities in Brittany, with an interesting past of sailors, sea explorers, and corsairs. It is an old port city, one of the main Breton ports, with high granite ramparts which dominate the English Chanel.

Take a tour of the ramparts to admire the view of the outer harbor, Dinard, the entrance to the Rance River, and the beautiful Brittany beaches of the Mole and Bon Secours . From here, you can also see the islands of Grand Bé and Petit Bé. Then walk downtown to pay a visit to its Romanesque-Gothic cathedral and perhaps stop for a crêpe and a bowl of cider.

If the tide is low, walk to Chateaubriand’s tomb on Grand Bé island. Originally from Saint-Malo, the famous inventor of Romanticism, François René de Chateaubriand , is buried on this uninhabited island which, at low tide, becomes a peninsula.

Saint-Malo is easy to reach from Paris by train. Some people use beautiful Saint-Malo as a base camp to explore Mont Saint Michel, in Normandy, on a day trip.

TIP: the beachfront Hotel Le Nouveau Monde , in Saint-Malo, always has wonderful reviews

Sail the Brest – Nantes Canal

Nantes - Brest Canal

Built in the first half of the 19th century and inaugurated by Napoleon III in 1858, the Nantes – Brest Canal connects these two cities through the valleys of the Erdre, Isac, Oust, Blavet, Doré, Kergoat, Hyères, and Alder.

The Canal is the perfect place to spend a long weekend on a houseboat, at a cruising speed of 6km/h – check out this boat trip itinerary with Le Boat France for inspiration. On the way, admire its wonderful landscapes, dotted with castles and other interesting sights.

Explore the Best Towns in Brittany

best places to visit in southern brittany

This list of the best of Brittany would not be complete without its most beautiful towns. Brittany is home to some of the best coastal towns in France , but there are many rural gems also inland. From small medieval towns stuck in time to flowered granite villages, places like Rochefort-en-Terre , Locronan, Moncontour, Sauzon , or Pont-Croix will likely steal your heart.

Hike the GR34 – Le Sentier des Douaniers

Le Sentier des Douaniers

Last but not least, there is the GR34 (Le Sentier des Douaniers), a multi-day hike that borders all of Brittany’s coastline for over 2,000 kilometers.

This wonderful hike, which starts at the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel and ends in Saint-Nazaire (Loire-Atlantique), covers most of the Brittany coastal towns and sites mentioned above. On the way, hikers cross five French departments while enjoying the best of Brittany: great views, gorgeous beaches, and isolated lighthouses.

Food in Brittany

Galettes - Brittany

We could not finish this article about Brittany without mentioning its cuisine. The Breton Cuisine is a fresh mix of mackerel and sardines, pork rillettes, and Breton pancakes. The Breton cooks with what he has on hand: flour, apples, pork, and butter. Lots of butter. Perhaps this does not sound very sexy, but despite that, Brittany has forged a true culinary identity in France.

Being bathed by the Chanel and the Atlantic Ocean, Brittany obviously offers a wide choice of fish and seafood. To have a taste of it, order the Breton lobster, clams, and mussels, or a plate of oysters with shallot sauce.

Apart from the fish and seafood, the list of regional specialties includes:

  • Meat: Kig ha-farz (a dish of meats stewed in buckwheat stuffing, like a pot-au-feu);
  • Vegetables: Artichokes, cauliflower,
  • Crêpes and galettes:  Breton crêpes, Breton galettes, sausage galettes;
  • Cheese: Emmental
  • Desserts:  Far Breton (a flan-style custard cake), Breton cake, Kouign amann (a layered, buttery pastry), and pound cake.

Brittany is not the best region for wine travel, but the cider is amongst the most famous french drinks , and the Breton beer and some of its liquors won’t disappoint you!

PRACTICAL INFO & OUR FAVORITES | BRETAGNE, FRANCE

Practical Info

The best time to visit Brittany is from June to September. August and September are the best months for those who want to take a bath (but don’t expect a water temperature higher than 18ºC!).

In general, avoid the months of December to March. In December and January, the chances of rain in Brittany are more than 55%.

Where to stay in Brittany?

  • Best Hotels in Rennes
  • Best Hotels in Dinan
  • Best Hotels in Saint-Malo
  • Best Hotels Gulf of Morbihan

>> Here’s a selection of wonderful hotels in the Brittany Region

What to do in Brittany?

  • Sailboat and kayak
  • Hiking, cycling, horseriding
  • Beach, spa retreats
  • Sightseeing, Romantic, Cultural and gastronomy getaways

And there you have it, the list of best things to do in Brittany, France. If you want to learn about other regions, check out this  article on the Regions of France , where we have summarized the highlights of each region.

Click here to Explore the French Regions

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The top 15 things to do in Brittany

Daphné Leprince-Ringuet

Mar 7, 2023 • 12 min read

best places to visit in southern brittany

The charming medieval city of Dinan is famous for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses © RossHelen / Shutterstock

With its countless stone-walled crêperies, traditional dancing Fest Noz festivals and road signs translated in Celtic language, Brittany loves to be unapologetically Breton. You will fall under the charm of this land shaped by the ocean, where fishermen hum centuries-old sea shanties at the local bar and tide times determine the course of the whole day.

If you are not one to be put off by below-average water temperatures and the occasional drop of rain, here are 15 unmissable things to see, watch and experience in Brittany. The spectacular scenery and fresh catch of the day are well worth the effort.

1. Get lost in the charming streets of Brittany’s medieval towns

There is no shortage of defensive walls, granite castles and cobbled streets in Brittany . The region is home to a long list of towns and villages straight out of the Middle Ages, from Dinan’s colorful half-timbered houses to the flowery streets of Rochefort-en-Terre, through Moncontour, Vitré or Josselin – each with its own history of fierce battles, and lucrative mercantile trading.

Often topping the list of Brittany’s most picturesque villages, Locronan has been part of France’s select club of classified historic monuments since 1924. Perched on a mountain less than 10 km away from the sea, you can catch breathtaking sights of Douarnenez Bay. The town also has a rich history, as a convergence point for different faiths and many Druid sites survive today. There’s also a yearly Troménie procession paying tribute to the village’s Catholic patron saint, Saint Ronan.

Planning tip : The village puts on an enchanting Christmas festival in early December with concerts, shows and activities, all in true Breton style.

France, Brittany, Cotes d'Armor department, Cote de Granit Rose, Ploumanac'h, Sentier des Douaniers (old customs officers Path) on the Pink granite coast with view of the Ploumanac'h lighthouse

2. Take a romantic walk along the Pink Granite Coast

Stretching over a dozen kilometers between Perros-Guirec and Trébeurden, the Pink Granite Coast owes its name to the blush-color rocks with a rare chemical composition formed from volcanic activity some 300 million years ago. Take the GR34 footpath , which meanders along the coast, and be prepared for some truly splendid sights as the rocks’ soft pink meets shades of sea blues and earthy greens. Sunset lighting only adds to the magic.

Local tip : Keep your eyes peeled for some of the more fantastically shaped rocks, including the “painter’s palette” and the “crab claw” in Trégastel, or the “upside down bottle” and even “Napoleon’s hat” in Ploumanac’h. And don’t miss Mean Ruz, an active lighthouse near Ploumanac’h that is emblematic of the region, which is built – you guessed it – out of pink granite.   

3. Tour Finistère’s famous lighthouses

Finistère’s famous lighthouses dotted along the coast – proudly displaying their names in capital letters as they guide ships through the night – are a trademark of the region. Ile Vierge, Saint Mathieu, Stiff, Trézien, or Petit Minou are among the lighthouses you can visit. Don’t count on an elevator to help with what can be a tough climb (up to several hundred steps, depending on which you visit) but the views are worth it.

Planning tip : Be aware that many lighthouses are shut to the public during the winter months. Also make sure that you check access details before you visit as some, such as Ile Vierge, have specific requirements depending on tide times.

A young man in the tunnel to the sea at the Fort des Capucins a rocky islet located in the Atlantic Ocean, Roscanvel, on the Crozon peninsula in France

4. Trek around the beautiful coastlines of the Crozon peninsula

For some postcard pictures, head to the Crozon peninsula, where the rugged cliffs falling into turquoise waters attract ever-larger crowds of tourists every year. The area’s wild landscapes are nevertheless impeccably preserved.

The GR34 route , a long-distance walking trail that follows Brittany’s entire coastline from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire, will take you around the peninsula, making for almost 150 km worth of pine trees and fragrant heather overlooking small coves and sandy beaches. You can access the footpath year-round from many different access points and will quickly become familiar with the red-and-white tags indicating you are on the right way. 

5. Headbang to your new favorite song in Rennes

The capital of Brittany is also less-officially known as one of the epicenters of rock music in France, a reputation that has stuck since the late ’70s when the city’s annual Trans Musicales festival started growing in popularity. Since then, Rennes has become an exciting musical hub, packed with festivals on a quasi-monthly basis.

Interested in moped races by the day followed by an eclectic selection of music gigs at night? Check out Rock’N’Solex in May. Fancy discovering both traditional and experimental takes on Breton folk music? Have a look at the Yaouank festival in November. Whether you are a punk rock purist or keen to branch out of your musical comfort zone, you can be sure there will be a scene for you.

Panorama of a coastal area in Saint-Malo.... architecture, atlantic, beach, bretagne, brittany, buildings, castle, city, cityscape, coast, europe, exterior, fort, fortress, france, heritage, high, historic, history, house, island, landmark, landscape, low, malo, medieval, nature, normandy, ocean, old, outdoor, panorama, rock, saint, saint-malo, sea, sightseeing, sky, st, stone, summer, sun, tide, tourism, tower, town, travel, wall, water

6. Revel in the lives of the famous pirates of Brittany

The 16th and 17th centuries saw the advent of notorious and terrifying French pirates, many of whom kept their ships in the fortified city of Saint-Malo, which thus came to be known as a cité corsaire (pirate city). Head for the port, where you will spot Le Renard and L’Etoile du Roy, replicas of historical privateer (pirate) ships on which you can set sail for as little as half a day or up to a whole weekend. 

If you would rather remain on dry land, take a walk around the city’s 12th-century fortifications to take in both sea and city views. On a small island just 200m away you will see the National Fort, built in the 17th century on the orders of the King Louis XIV to protect the immense riches accumulated in the city by his privateers. 

Planning tip : Twice a year, around March and September, tidal coefficients surpass 100, a natural phenomenon that signifies an extreme tidal force. Keep an eye on those numbers online because in Saint-Malo this is prime time to observe massive waves dramatically crash against the city walls. Official coefficients are released via the Naval Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service (SHOM) and displayed at the harbor master’s office.

Plate of freshly shucked oysters in Brittany, France

7. Stuff your face with fresh oysters in Cancale

Sure, Normandy has Mont Saint-Michel… but Brittany has Cancale, where you can not only see Mont Saint-Michel from a distance but do so while sitting on a lovely harbor eating some of the region’s best oysters. The reputation of the huître de Cancale, the Cancale oyster, is established across France – this is a must-do for experienced oyster devourers as much as hesitant first-timers.

Local tip : Head to the town’s oyster market, which welcomes eight local oyster aquaculturists year-round, and buy some produce to enjoy on the spot or on the go. Before you know it, you will be expertly differentiating between flat and cupped oysters, two of Cancale’s specialities.

8. Take a surfing lesson

Who said France’s best surfing spots could only be found on the south west coast? Although colder, Brittany’s waves are attracting a growing number of water sports enthusiasts. La Torche in Finistère is one of the most prized locations, but don’t hesitate to branch out to lesser-known options, such as the excitingly named Bay of the Dead, located near the scenic Pointe du Raz, or Plouharnel in the Morbihan.

Not a surfer? Not a problem. Most surfing schools will let you rent bodyboards at a lower cost which require next to no skill or water sport experience. Happy wave jumping.

Planning tip : You will likely be given the option to rent a wetsuit with your board. Take it or bring your own, but don’t risk getting cold in the water, because you will.

9. Kayak through a secluded lagoon

It is not hard to see why Les Glénan archipelago is often compared to Tahiti. Made of seven islands and a dozen smaller islets, Les Glénan offers an exceptional – and largely uninhabited – spectacle of sandy beaches and translucent water. As the home of an international diving center and a world-famous sailing school, it will come as no surprise that it can only be reached by boat.

There are several options to visit, with shuttle boats connecting to various ports on the mainland between April and September. Prioritize the warmer summer months, when you can rent kayaks to tour the archipelago on your own. It’s not that often you get to disembark for a nap on a totally deserted isle.

Perfect Trip Menhir rocks in field in Brittany & Normandy

10. Wander around thousands of prehistoric menhirs

Next to the small seaside town of Carnac, some 3,000 menhirs, or upright stones, are sitting in three alignments – the largest gathering of prehistoric stones in the world. The site was built around 6,000 years ago, even before England’s Stonehenge, for reasons still shrouded in mystery. Walk the footpaths circling the alignments or join a guided tour to learn more about the wild and wacky hypotheses scientists have put forward to explain the collection.

Planning tip : The footpaths that are accessible year-round will only let you view the stones from the outside. You can also walk freely through the alignments from October to April. If you are visiting during the summer months, however, you will be required to book a guided tour. 

Vannes, medieval city in Brittany, with boats in the harbor and typical houses in the background, France

11. Go harbor-hopping in the Gulf of Morbihan

Small towns with pretty harbors abound in the Gulf of Morbihan. Pick and mix between Auray, Le Bono, Larmor Baden, Port Navolo or Port du Crouesty. Make sure you don’t miss the medieval city of Vannes with its windy, historical streets.

With up to 60 islands small and big sitting inside the Gulf, you might also consider booking a boat trip. A handful of islands can be visited and explored thanks to plenty of panoramic footpaths, the most popular of which are also the largest: Ile d’Arz and Ile aux Moines. 

Detour : At low tide, you will be able to walk to Ile Tascon from Saint-Armel on the mainland and get around the island in just two to three hours. The area is known for its high concentration of birds. Make sure you don’t get so lost in contemplation that you forget the rising water and get stuck there.

12. Re-enact the legend of King Arthur in the Brocéliande Forest

Merlin’s Tomb, the Church of the Holy Grail or the Valley of No Return may sound like they have no place in the real world, yet they are open to flesh-and-bone visitors in the forest of Brocéliande, also known as Paimpont Forest. The site, famous for its centuries-old legends and myths, served as the setting for Arthurian novels written by Chrétien de Troyes in the 12th century.

Trees that have lived through the last millennium overlook small ponds and quiet streams, creating an atmosphere that seems suspended in time. There is no shortage of options to make the most of your time in the forest, whether you are renting a bike, following a guide on a storytelling-themed tour, or simply wandering around on foot.

Planning tip : The forest is largely private, which means that only a small area and a selection of sites are completely open to the public. To further complicate matters, some zones may be shut when it is hunting season (from mid-September to the beginning of April), so plan ahead and check if access restrictions apply by visiting the Brocéliande tourist office in Paimpont. You can also find online maps of the forest with recommended routes for spring and summer or autumn and winter , as well as a useful guide to visiting the forest. Do not ignore any hunting-related sign that you encounter during your visit (pull out Google Translate if you need to).

13. Ride a certified Breton horse in Lamballe

Brittany is a land of horses. But not just any horses: the Breton breed is as imposing as it is gentle, and typically suited to carriage-pulling and agricultural work. To see some of the region’s best specimens and learn more about their history, head to the Haras National in Lamballe, a stud farm established in 1825 and which now boasts an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages and a historical harness room.

In addition to guided tours, you can book a 30-minute carriage ride around the town center or in the nearby park. During the school holidays, children can also spend half a day learning the basics of stable work. Make sure you book in advance.

14. Dive into Brest’s fascinating maritime history

Maritime history and culture have long permeated the city of Brest, which is still a key military base for the French Navy. Right in the city center, the Castle of Brest doubles as the National Maritime Museum, which recounts centuries of sea-bound expeditions through ship models, paintings and sculptures. 

The city sits facing the majestic roadstead of Brest, which, at 180 sq kms, is one of the largest in the world. Jump on a paddleboard, a kayak, a cruise or a sailing boat to explore this gigantic bay and its many spots of natural beauty. 

Detour : A 45-minute drive from Brest – or just on the opposite side of the roadstead if traveling by water – lies the ship graveyard of Landévennec where decommissioned vessels are moored while they await dismantling. You can catch a glimpse from various spots on the ground or watch from a safe distance at sea. An experience that, albeit slightly spooky, is definitely out of the ordinary.

 kerisac red bowl of cider with locale typical french Breton crepe complete on restaurant terrace sea side brittany;

15. Work your way through the crêperie menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Discussing Brittany without mentioning crêpes would be like passing on pizza while visiting Naples. In fact, you will find it hard to go more than 10 minutes without walking past one of the cozy crêperies that are so typical of the region. And your trip cannot be complete without having sampled an extensive selection of sweet and savory toppings.

Granted, crêperie etiquette can seem tricky. It is okay (and encouraged) to order a second galette if you are still hungry after your first one – and the same goes for crêpes . You are meant to drink cider with your meal, and it will come in a tiny bowl called a bolée . And if you have fearlessly chosen the galette à l’andouille , which is filled with a pungent type of sausage made from pork guts – then yes, that smell is normal.

Planning tip : It is not a given that your local crêperie will have an English-translated menu. Be aware that in many parts of the region, savory crêpes are called galettes and that they are made with buckwheat. It gives them a deliciously nutty, smoky taste and also means that they are gluten-free. A crêpe de froment is for your sweet tooth only and is made with standard wheat flour.

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Saint Malo beach in Brittany

Xavier Foucrier CC0

The Best Places to Visit in Brittany

best places to visit in southern brittany

Brittany in western France has so much to offer visitors who want to explore thousands of years of history, see stunning coastal landscapes, and discover beautiful little islands. Whether you want to relax on a golden sandy beach, visit ancient ruins and medieval villages, or go cycling alongside the sea, we will help you experience the best of Brittany! 

We have traveled extensively through Brittany, so we’re very happy to share our favorite places of interest with you. 

If you’d like to find out more about how we can help you plan your trip to Brittany, we invite you to take a look at some of our self-drive tours of Brittany .

Saint-Malo 

Saint Malo in Brittany is a port city that has a rich history and has one of the nicest beaches in France. The town is popular with travelers who enjoyed the book 'All the light we cannot see' by Anthony Doerr, which was set in St Malo in World War II.  If you're on a tour with France Just For You, we can plan a self-guided walking tour of St Malo for you which takes you to the places featured in the book.

The cobbled streets of this walled citadel are steeped in history, as are the high granite city walls that enclose the old town. In World War II, the town was under siege by the Germans, and going further back, it was occupied by privateers (pirates approved by the king). It is worth simply strolling around the old town and enjoying its charm. 

Then you can make your way to Plage du Môle, one of the best sandy beaches on the Emerald Coast (Côte d'Emeraude in French). Situated on the English channel, this beach is great for swimming and doesn't get too windy. The summer lifeguard station means it's safe and popular with families. And for lunch, try some Breton delicacies like oysters and crepes - these are served in many of Saint Malo's restaurants and markets.

You can combine Saint Malo with a trip to Mont Saint Michel Abbey, which is less than an hour’s drive away in Normandy.

Find out more about St Malo in our blog post on How to Spend a Day in St Malo .

Saint-Malo beach, Brittany

Pixabay CC0

Cancale 

Enjoy more of the Emerald Coast as you drive between Saint Malo and Cancale, a lovely little port in the northeast of Brittany famous for its oysters.

Cancale oysters have been famous since Roman times, popular among the soldiers of Julius Caesar, and with King Louis XIV much later. Cancale is officially a 'Site remaquable du goût' (a place of exceptional taste!) due to the exceptional flavor of its oysters. 

If you head to the pier from the town's harbor, you can see 4.5 square miles of oyster beds. There are a few oyster stalls on the seafront, and there are also various restaurants in town where you can try the famous 'oversized' oysters.

Cancale in Brittany

W. Bulach CC-BY-SA 4.0

Dinan is a lovely medieval town above the Rance river. Like Saint Malo, the town is surrounded by city walls and has some interesting architecture. This ranges from medieval to early Renaissance buildings and half-timbered houses on the Rue du Jerzual, to the impressive Château de Dinan, with its dungeon, fortifications and towers dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

We also recommend visiting the Saint-Sauveur Basiliica, which shows an interesting blend of different architectural styles. You can enjoy panoramic views of the town from the Clock Tower. And those interested in trains may enjoy a visit to the Railway Museum, which has model railways, signal boxes and posters.

It’s also possible to take a boat trip along the Rance river to Saint-Malo - very nice when the weather’s fine.

Dinan, Brittany

The old town of Vannes is between Nantes and Brest by the Gulf of Morbihan. This historic walled town surrounds the 13th-century, Italian Renaissance-style Saint Pierre Cathedral. Inside the cathedral, there are some beautiful 17th-century tapestries.

There's a nice view of the cathedral and the Constable Tower from the Parc de la Garenne. The medieval gates, towers and fortifications were built between the 3rd and 17th centuries. You can learn more about the heritage of Vannes at the Musée d'Histoire et d'Archéologie in the center of the old town. It is housed in Chateau Gaillard and its collections include paintings and archeological artefacts.

The walled city of Vannes in Brittany, France

mphb45 CC-BY 3.0

Île-aux-Moines, Morbihan

The Gulf of Morbihan is a pretty, protected bay in southern Brittany filled with gorgeous little islands with beautiful scenery. One of the largest islands is the Île aux Moines - you can take a day-trip there by boat from Port Blanc. The crossing only takes a few minutes. The island is around 3.5 miles long and nearly 2 miles wide, with a population of about 600 people - though the island is very busy in the summer.

It's a lovely place to spend a day exploring the countryside, relaxing on the beach or strolling along the streets in the north of the island, admiring the traditional Breton houses. There is a coastal path where you can go for a walk or hire a bike by the port and go cycling. 

There are also some interesting neolithic sites, including 'cromlech de Kergonan', a series of 24 stones in the center of the island, and the dolmen at Pen Hap in the south.

Two girls hiking on a coastal path on Ile aux Moines in Morbihan, Brittany

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The word Carnac comes from the Celtic word ‘carn’, which means ‘stone monument’. It’s on Quiberon Bay and has some fantastic Neolithic sites. These include the "Circuit des Alignements", consisting of circles and rows of stones up to 20 feet high, and a small chapel that sits on top of the Tumulus Saint-Michel monument. 

The Musée de Préhistoire is an exceptional museum on prehistory in Carnac - one of the best in Europe. You’ll find archeological objects that have been uncovered at  sites in this area. The collection shows the evolution of humans from 450,000 BC, covering the Stone Age, the Neolithic period, up to the Gallo-Roman epoch, which ended in the 5th century AD.

Megaliths at Carnac, Brittany in France

Nicolas Raymond, Flickr, CC-BY 2.0

Côte de Granit Rose

The beautiful Pink Granite Coast runs from Perros-Guirec to the natural harbor town of Ploumanac'h.

It has stunning weather-beaten rock formations, some higher than 60ft, known as the Rochers de Ploumanac'h. You can see these between Trestraou and Saint-Guirec. Some of them resemble familiar shapes, such as a rabbit, a witch and even Napoleon’s hat. 

There’s a nice 5-mile hiking trail, the Sentier des Douaniers, which has marvellous views of the rocks at Ploumanac'h and of the pink granite coast. It goes along the coast, crosses the moors and ends at Ploumanac'h port.

Also along the Sentier des Douaniers is the sandy Saint-Guirec beach, ideal for swimming as the sea here is calm.

For more sandy beaches and watersports, you can visit a family resort that’s popular with the locals, at Perros-Guirec. 

The old town of Trébeurden, also on the coast, is worth a visit for its handicrafts shops, traditional Breton farmers market, and excellent gourmet restaurants. Try one of the region’s specialties, buckwheat pancakes, at one of the local crêperies. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants to choose from, and a Michelin-star restaurant, Manoir de Lan-Kerellec.

Plougrescant also has some magnificent coastal rocky landscapes - l ook out for the Maison entre deux Rochers (the House between Two Rocks)!

Lighthouse at Ploumanach Brittany in France

Jeanne Menjoulet CC-BY 2.0

Pont-Aven is a famous village  in the Finistère department of Brittany known for its artists and its biscuits! Its name comes from the river that runs through it. It is most well-known for its association with post-Impressionist French painter Paul Gauguin , who arrived there in 1886. There he established the 'Ecole de Pont-Aven', a new style of painting. 

The Museum of Pont-Aven has many paintings on display by artists who adopted the Ecole de Pont-Aven style. If you come on a tour with France Just For You, we'll suggest a self-guided walking tour route which will take you in Gauguin's footsteps and show you some of the sites that he portrayed in his paintings. Alternatively, you can go to the town's tourist office and pick up a map which marks the Painter's Trail. 

If you're in Brittany in early August, try to be in Pont-Aven for the Fête des Fleurs d'Ajonc (Festival of Gorse Flowers). It's an ideal opportunity to see the locals dressed in traditional Breton clothes, listen to Breton bagpipe music and see (and maybe learn!) a traditional Breton dance.

As for the famous buttery biscuits (known as Galettes de Pont-Aven), you can buy some and experience their unique flavor at one of the local biscuit shops.

Pont-Aven Brittany

Mike Finn, Flickr , CC-BY 2.0

Locronan is the only village in the Finistère region that features in the list of ' the most beautiful villages in France '. Locronan is a beautiful, charming, well-preserved town. It has been named as a "Petite Cité de Caractère" (Small City of Character) because of its impressive Renaissance houses and magnificent church dating back to the 1400s. Most of the houses in the town were built using local granite and have traditional slate roofs.

The attractive cobble-stone Place de l'Eglise is a good starting point to explore the village. It's surrounded by ancient buildings, including a vaulted church, and has an ancient well in the center.

There are a few small shops and cafes around the square. From here it is easy to explore the rest of centre of the village as streets depart in all directions: to the left of the church follow the loop formed by Rue des Charrettes and Rue du Four and opposite stroll along the narrow road called Venelle Toul Prichen.

Locronan tourist office has a suggested route for you to follow as you explore the village. Or if you're on on a self drive tour of Brittany with us, we'll make sure you know all the must-sees.

Locronan, Brittany

Moonik , CC-BY SA 3.0

This is a good rest stop if you’re driving between Mont Saint Michel and the Loire Valley .

Fougères is in a beautiful location, surrounded by lush forests and fields. Its main attraction is the Château de Fougères, a fortress with thirteen towers, built between the 12th-15th centuries.

If you visit the castle, expect to be immersed in spectacles representing life in the region during the Middle Ages.

You’ll also notice a quaint, medieval ambiance in the walled old town, with its half-timbered houses near the Place du Marchix.

Other places of interest include Saint-Sulpice church, with its stunning Gothic interior, the Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) that dates back to the 14th century and the Shoe Museum, which was once a shoe factory.

The medieval walls around the old town of Fougères in Brittany

Daniel Jolivet, Flickr   CC-BY 2.0

Rochefort-en-Terre

This off-the-beaten-path village in Morbihan department has been named a ‘Petite Cité de Caractère’ (Small City of Character) one of the "Plus Beaux Villages" (Most Beautiful Villages in France) and a " Village Fleuris " ("Village in Bloom" or "Flowery Village") because of the pretty flowers you’ll see around the town.

Enjoy a stroll around the village's charming streets and discover old stone and half-timbered houses adorned with flowers, and local artist workshops.

The Château de Rochefort-en-Terre is surrounded by a park and resembles medieval castle. But actually, it only dates back to the 17th century, when it was used as a horse stables, and was restored in the 20th century. American painter Alfred Klotz bought the castle in 1907 and spent a fortune on the renovations. You can't go inside the château, but you can admire the outside while walking through the park.

Rochefort-en-Terre, Brittany

Calips , CC-BY SA 3.0

La Vallée des Saints

La Vallée des Saints is a project that aims to create 1,000 statues of Breton saints sculpted from granite from the Armorican peninsula.

Armorica was the name given to this area (now Brittany) during ancient times. It means "place in front of the sea" in Gaulish, the ancient Celtic language spoken in this region at the time.  The hundreds of statues at the Quénéquillec site at Carnoët represent the Christian evangelisation of ancient Armorica.

They're also a reflection of the faith of the Breton people. The main aim of La Vallée des Saints is to pass on the values that the locals hold dear.  It's an unusual and fascinating place to visit!

France Just For You trip planner Emilie in the Saints' Valley in Brittany. There are large sculptures of saints on the grassy field behind her. It's a cloudy day. Emilie is smiling.

The Pleyben Parish close (Enclos paroissial de Pleyben) is a cathedral complex in Pleyben. It includes the Saint-Germain church, a funeral chapel, a triumphal arch, and the calvary. 

The building has two impressive bell towers, one known as the Saint Germain, built in the Renaissance style with a domed lantern at the top, and the other with a spire in the Gothic style. You can find out more about Pleyben Parish close here .

Pleyben Parish close, Brittany

Kergourlay ,  CC-BY SA 3.0

La Presqu'île de Crozon

The Crozon Peninsula is right at the tip of the middle of Brittany. The sea here is very clear with some of the best beaches in Brittany . We recommend a visit to the gorgeous Landevennec Abbey , where you’ll see the ruins of ​​a medieval Benedictine monastery and a beautiful sea backdrop.

The ruins of Landevennec Abbey on the Crozon peninsula in Brittany

LeNanou , CC-BY SA 4.0

If you have time...

Dinard 

We don’t include Dinard in our self-drive itineraries, but it has a nice port and it’s good for luxury shopping.

Roscoff 

Roscoff is a nice place to explore if you’re arriving in Brittany by ferry from Plymouth, UK or Cork, Ireland. It has a very nice harbor, interesting historic houses that belonged to shopowners in the past, and a beautiful Gothic church.

Île de Batz

In the summer, there are regular ferries from Roscoff to the Île de Batz. It's a nice island to visit if you're staying in the Roscoff region, with sandy beaches, pretty seaside scenery, and an exotic garden. We don't typically include Roscoff and Île de Batz in our itineraries as it's very far out of the way if you then want to visit other parts of France. If you want to explore Brittany's islands, we prefer Ile aux Moines in the Morbihan Gulf or Ile de Bréhat, which are both easy to visit in a day from the mainland.

If you would like to explore Brittany by car , we would love to help you plan your trip! Just send us your France wishlist , and we'll be in touch!

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My husband and our friends spent two weeks travelling around Northern France, the Loire Valley and Paris. Emilie provided us with a detailed itinerary that exceeded our expectations. The accommodations were excellent and unique providing us with a variety of B & B's. Her recommendations for tours and sights took into consideration our interests and …

My husband and our friends spent two weeks travelling around Northern France, the Loire Valley and Paris. Emilie provided us with a detailed itinerary that exceeded our expectations. The accommodations were excellent and unique providing us with a variety of B & B's. Her recommendations for tours and sights took into consideration our interests and past visits. This was our friends first trip to France and our third. They were overwhelmed by the attention to detail and the care Emilie took in arranging transportation, accommodations etc. My husband and I enjoyed this trip even though we have visited most of the area previously, but Emilie had arranged some amazing tours that we had not taken. The Beaches of Normandy were highlights for all and the guide Emilie arranged was very knowledgeable and personable. All of the B & B owners shared their positive experience working with France Just for You. Emilie has made excellent relationships with her tour guides and hosts. We would highly recommend France Just for You and hope to return again one day. We will be sure to have Emilie prepare our next adventure.

Thank you Emilie for such a wonderful honeymoon! Every detail was taken care of so that my husband and I could just relax and enjoy ourselves! It was absolutely the easiest trip we have ever planned and we will certainly be using France Just For You on our next trip to France!

Cannot speak highly enough of our experience with Emilie and France Just for You. They attended to every detail and request. The B&Bs were welcoming and attractive - quaint and with modern conveniences. The table-d'hotes were very special and a chance to taste authentic, regional cuisine and wines. We were very thankful to discover this wonderful …

Cannot speak highly enough of our experience with Emilie and France Just for You. They attended to every detail and request. The B&Bs were welcoming and attractive - quaint and with modern conveniences. The table-d'hotes were very special and a chance to taste authentic, regional cuisine and wines. We were very thankful to discover this wonderful service. My husband has mobility issues and everyone was very accommodating. Also, felt it was good value. Bon voyage.

We would like to add our names to everyone else here who have had a truly excellent experience when using Emilie's, France Just For You company. We drove 2800 km on a recent holiday, and it was all arranged by Emilie. Everything she organized was perfect. We stayed in B and Bs and although we know a little French, all of our hosts spoke fluent …

We would like to add our names to everyone else here who have had a truly excellent experience when using Emilie's, France Just For You company. We drove 2800 km on a recent holiday, and it was all arranged by Emilie. Everything she organized was perfect. We stayed in B and Bs and although we know a little French, all of our hosts spoke fluent English. We had private guides for both the WW1 battlegrounds and then for Juno Beach, the Canadian WW2 D-Day landing beach. They showed up right on time and where both just amazing. She organized a wine tour that was fun and a walking food tour in Avignon. If anyone likes doing food tours, this one is a must! Our rental car was waiting when we got to the agency, although there was a very slight misunderstanding at first, but a quick call to Emilie sorted everything out. We had a very nice hybrid, automatic transmission car, with full, walkaway insurance. The personalized guide books she provides are just full of things one would never know without her books. We had a moble phone with unlimited text talk and data to Canada (although in truth I used my iphone as I was so familiar with it and it's apps.) I could go on and on, but let me say that everything from start to finish was looked after impeccably, and for anyone considering a driving holiday in France, we recommend France Just For You with as high a rating as it is possible to assign. She is great!!!

Without a doubt one of the best vacations my friend and I have ever taken! We keep raving to all about how authentic the trip was. Not only was every aspect of this trip gorgeous from the grape vineyards to the lavender fields to the mountainous towns and cathedrals, but the details were second to none. Emilie and Laura provided my friend and I …

Without a doubt one of the best vacations my friend and I have ever taken! We keep raving to all about how authentic the trip was. Not only was every aspect of this trip gorgeous from the grape vineyards to the lavender fields to the mountainous towns and cathedrals, but the details were second to none. Emilie and Laura provided my friend and I with the perfect girls getaway. When we first planned this trip, we had no idea what an amazing trip would lie ahead. The B&Bs were absolute perfection, and their owners were lovely and catered to all of our needs. The pools on the grounds of the B&Bs were just beautiful. We loved the delightfully French cuisine laid out on the breakfast tables and the opportunity to meet other travelers. The ten wine tasting with Francois in his range rover and the cooking class with Jacques were highlights for sure! Every day held beautiful travel memories.

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Thank you so much Emilie for all your hard work on our anniversary trip to St. Emilion and the Loire Valley! We had such a great time and everything you planned for us was just perfect. Having traveled to Paris and Nice many times, this was our first time exploring the countryside and we had a blast. We cannot thank you enough for everything! Kris and Kristina

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The Most Beautiful Towns in Brittany, France

Pont-Aven’s beauty has attracted many artists over the years, including Paul Gauguin

Brittany is one of France’s most distinctive regions, boasting its own language and a long history of traditions. It’s known for its Celtic heritage, some 3,000 megaliths from early human settlements, and the magical Brocéliande Forest of Arthurian legend. From medieval citadels to historic harbours, we chart Brittany’s most beautiful towns.

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best places to visit in southern brittany

Auray is best known for its cobbled streets, historical half-timbered houses and picturesque harbour, Saint-Goustan. The port served as a major trading site between the 17th and 19th centuries, even welcoming Benjamin Franklin, who arrived at Saint-Goustan in 1776 to solicit support during the American War of Independence. Nowadays it’s a yachting harbour with numerous restaurants and bars, an annual oyster festival, and regular book and craft fairs.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Take a trip to Carnac if you’re interested in history; its megaliths date back to the same period as England’s Stonehenge. It’s thought that thousands of neolithic standing stones – also known as menhirs – were hewn from local rock and erected by the pre-Celtic people of Brittany between 3000 and 4000BCE – for reasons that remain a mystery. The town is divided into Carnac-Ville, with a historic 17th-century church and the artefact-laden Museum of Prehistory, and Carnac-Plages, an attractive seaside resort on Quiberon Bay, with large sandy beaches and a thalassotherapy centre.

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best places to visit in southern brittany

Dinan is one of Brittany’s best-preserved medieval-walled towns. It’s a designated Ville d’art et d’histoire (Town of Art and History), and it supports local artists and craftspeople at its weekly market, Place du Guesclin, named after a 14th-century knight. Walk along its 3km (2mi) long ramparts, climb the St Catherine Tower and brave the 158 steps of the Tour de l’Horloge (clock tower) in Vieux Dinan (old quarter), characterised by winding pedestrian streets and half-timbered houses.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Locronan is home to the legend of Saint Ronan, after whom the town is named. Local tradition holds that he was a bishop from Ireland who came to find a hermitage ( loc in Breton), and the St Ronan Church housing his relics remains a pilgrimage site today. You’ll come across well-preserved renaissance granite houses in this town, which has served as the location for several films, including A Very Long Engagement (2004) by French filmmaker Jean-Pierre Jeunet.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Stop by at Paimpont to discover the legendary forest of Brocéliande, which was supposedly home to King Arthur and the wizard Merlin. Many trails lead from the town into this ancient forest, and you can explore them on a guided tour or alone. Meanwhile, the town’s abbey, which traces back to 1199, sits on the sacred site of a seventh-century monastery on the shores of a small lake, Étang de Paimpont.

Ploumanac’h

best places to visit in southern brittany

Ploumanac’h, on the Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast) in northern Brittany, is a small village with a great beach. Pink granite rock formations form a surreal coastline, while the town’s active lighthouse stands prominently at the shoreline. Ploumanac’h features both a beach area (Ploumanac’h-Plage) and an inland village (Ploumanac’h-Bourg) – as is the case for most coastal towns in the region – between which lies a park with rock formations similar to those along the coast.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Pont-Aven, in the Finistère department in western Brittany, is an artistic haven known for the Pont-Aven School of painters, which ran from the 1850s until the 20th century. The school of painters was centred around artists Paul Gauguin and Émile Bernard, whose artworks depict village scenes – such as Gauguin’s Landscape at Pont-Aven . Elsewhere, in August, there’s a flower festival that celebrates Breton traditions.

Rochefort-en-Terre

best places to visit in southern brittany

Rochefort-en-Terre has won awards for being one of France’s most beautiful villages thanks to its half-timbered buildings and renaissance stone edifices. The village first garnered attention in 1907 when American painter Alfred Klots bought and renovated its medieval château. He encouraged the display of flowers in the town, which is a tradition that continues to this day.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Roscoff is recognised as one of the region’s “small towns of character”. It boasts a pleasant harbour and beaches that jut out into the Bay of Morlaix, while its town centre has maintained its architectural heritage of 16th- and 17th-century buildings. A short boat ride away is the small island of Île de Batz, which offers an idyllic getaway from the mainland.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Saint-Malo is one of the most popular destinations in Brittany. Its walled citadel, Intra Muros, is the main attraction; most of it was painstakingly restored after major destruction during World War II. The town is famous for being an important port during the 17th and 18th centuries, used by both trade ships and the notorious corsaires (privateers) employed as protection against the English. The city also enjoys a number of pleasant beaches and numerous seafood restaurants.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Rennes is Brittany’s cultural and economic heart. Although much of it was destroyed by fire in 1720, its stately parliament building, town hall and numerous museums remain. Pass through the medieval city gate and marvel at wonky, half-timbered houses before wandering among roses at Thabor Gardens. With two universities and a medical school, Rennes thrums with students who enjoy coffee and Breton crêpes in cobbled-lane cafes, perfect for filling up before heading to the Saturday morning Place des Lices, one of France’s largest markets.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Discover one of France’s most picturesque natural harbours in Brest. Bisected by the Penfeld River and set on the coast, the port city pays homage to its naval heritage with a National Navy Museum and an innovative ocean discovery park, Océanopolis. Days in Brest are made for strolling along vibrant quays, shadowed by medieval fortifications, where workers hammer in the shipyards and seafood restaurants spill onto the pavements.

Vannes, protected by ancient walls, is one of Brittany’s most-visited towns. The former trade port was built on a Roman site and today it boasts a maze-like network of narrow cobbled alleys that give way to traditional town squares. Leaning, cantilevered wooden buildings abound, complimented by the Italian renaissance-style Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, with its acclaimed 17th-century tapestries. Spend your days sampling local cider and shopping for cheese, visiting the art museum and soaking up Vannes’s old-world feel.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Quiberon is a narrow stretch of island-like land that juts 14km (9mi) into the sea. Come to explore its boardwalk boutiques and seafood eateries, where you can learn about the area’s famous canned sardines. Quiberon’s main attraction is its rugged coastline, most of which is a designated nature reserve. Long, windswept walks will take you past dunes and colourful heathland, sea caves and isolated coves where the current is too torrid for swimming.

best places to visit in southern brittany

In summer, Lorient is a magnet for swanky international yachts that bob in the marina while their owners explore the town. Remnants of Lorient’s seafaring history can be found in an 18th-century watchtower, naval museum and a German submarine left from WWII when Allied bombs destroyed the town to block Nazi supplies. Visit during the famous Festival Interceltique de Lorient, which takes place every August, with performances held in the marina and bars across the town.

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Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article .

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The Geographical Cure

20 Most Beautiful Towns In Off the Beaten Path Brittany

Planning a trip to Brittany France?

Here’s my guide to the most beautiful towns in Brittany, a dramatic and wild region of northwest France. Brittany is deliciously varied. There’s spectacular scenery — heathland, marshes, a jagged coastline, stunning sand beaches, and azure waves.

Brittany is also just filled with secret medieval towns and villages where you can disappear down a cobbled lane into history.

Pinterest pin for beautiful towns in Brittany

If you’ve been in Paris or just want to get off the beaten path and explore secret areas of France , Brittany makes the perfect escape.

In Brittany, the Breton language is still proudly spoken. It’s actually closer to Welsh than to French. The further west you go, the wilder Brittany gets. If you want sun, be sure to visit between March and October.

And don’t forget to sample the crepes. Crepes are to Bretons what pasta is to Italians.

Daoulas

20 Beautiful Towns in Brittany France

Brittany is divided into four departments: Finistere in the west, Cotes-d’Armor in the north, Ille-et-Vilaine int northeast, and Morbihan in the south. Let’s take a tour of the most beautiful villages in all four areas.

Daoulas is a beautiful town in Brittany that’s Shakespeare famous. Shakespeare’s father lived in Daoulas. He was a cloth merchant who exported precious fabrics to London. Daolus is even mentioned in Henry IV, Part I.

If, like me you’re a ruin luster, Daoulas is famed for the early Gothic ruins of an ancient Augustinian abbey.

The abbey was founded in 500 AD on the banks of the river. The cloister is a unique example of a 12th century Romanesque cloister. Today, it’s a cultural center.

main street in the medieval town of Locronan

2. Locronan

Locronan is one of Brittany’s plus beaux villages and also designated as a “little City of Character.” It was a rich merchant village in the middle ages.

So picturesque are its streets that Locronan has been the filming location for several historical films, including Roman Polanski’s Tess .

The centerpiece is the Grand Place of Locronan. It’s graced with gorgeous buildings, dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries — granite homes, slate roofs, and fetching shutters.

Don’t miss the 15th century Church of Saint-Ronan. The chief feature is its belfry, which lost its spire in a lightening storm. Another lovely building is the Notre Dame Chapel of Bone-Nousbelle.

Place du Puits in Rocheforte-en-Terre

3. Rochefort-en-Terre

Rochefort-en-Terre is one of France’s les plus beaux villages and a must see village in Brittany. It was voted “France’s favorite village” in 2016.

It’s difficult to imagine a more beautiful and well-manicured French hamlet. Rochefort-en-Terre is fairytale-perfect and almost mind blowing, a sensation I had upon glimpsing the beautiful Rothenburg ob der Tauber on Germany’s Romantic Road .

Rochefort-en-Terre is an architectural dream, beautifully sited on a hilltop overlooking the Valley of Arz. It’s a town where rich merchants built lavishly decorated chateaus. Most date from the 17th century.

street in Rochefort-en-Terre, a beautiful town in Brittany

The mansions run from the Rue de Porche to the Place du Puits. They’re made of granite and half timbers and adorned with corbelled turrets, sculptures, and wood carvings.

As you stroll, inspect the Notre Dame de la Tronchaye church, which dates from the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s famed for a statue of the Virgin Mary, which was discovered by a shepherdess in a tree trunk.

The most swoonful place in Rochefort-en-Terre is the Place du Puits. It’s the perfect intimate village setting with stone buildings, hanging iron signs, a fountain, and flower boxes on every facade.

Pop into L’Art Gourmand for delicious chocolatey things. If hunger calls, try Le Café Breton, boasting original medieval decor. There are plenty of crepes and waffles to be had as well.

Chateau Josselin in Josselin Brittany

4. Josselin

The town of Josselin sits on the Nantes-Brest canal. Its fortress, Chateau Josselin, was ravaged over the years, including by Cardinal Richelieu. But three round towers with conical roofs still remain. The fortress was restored in the 1860s.

Josselin is a seductive medieval ensemble. It’s home to medieval half timbered houses, the flamboyant gothic Basilica Notre-Dame du Roncier, and a lively Saturday market.

Climb to the top of the bell tower of the basilica for panoramic views over the town and surrounding area.

The basilica is Josselin’s finest building after the fortress. There’s a cardinal’s coat of arms carved on the doorway. The pulpit is an 18th century wrought iron masterpiece.

ancient menhirs in Locmariaquer in Brittany France

5. Locmariaquer

Lochmariaquer means a “place consecrated to Mary.” It’s a resort town, offering promontory views of the Morbihan coast. Beautiful homes line the seductive Rue Lafayette.

Aside from being a pretty village, Lochmariquer is a Stone Age paradise for history buffs and ruin lusters. It’s the site of the most renowned Breton menhirs or standing stones, dating from between 3500 and 1800 B.C.

The stones (or burial chambers) were aligned, in part, to reflect the movement of the sun and moon. One dolmen, Mane Rethual, can be entered along a cover tunnel. The Gran-Menhir is a single piece of granite, 280 tons.

14th century Trecesson castle in Paimpont

6. Paimpont

Paimpont is a village of lakes and chateaus. It’s reputedly the birthplace of the Lady of the Lake, from the Arthurian legends, who resurrected Lancelot. The Paimpont Chateau houses a museum devoted to Arthurian lore.

Surrounded by an ancient forest, Paimpont is the perfect stepping off point to explore the legendary forest of Brocéliande, which was supposedly home to King Arthur and the wizard Merlin.

Many trails lead from the town into the forest.

For those more interested in historical sites, the town’s ancient abbey dates from 1199. It was built on the sacred site of a 17th century monastery and has a stunning lakeside location.

beautiful rock formations in Plumanac'h Brittany France

7. Ploumanac’h

Ploumanac’h is one of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. It’s located on spectacular “pink granite coast,” halfway along the northern coast.

It’s essentially a glittering secret seaside. Ploumanac’h’s ruddy pink granite rock formations create an utterly surreal coastline. The town’s active edge of the world lighthouse stands guard.

Befitting a coastal town, Ploumanac’h contains both a beach area (Ploumanac’h-Plage), and an inland village (Ploumanac’h-Bourg). “Plou” means parish and “manac’h” means monk.

The most popular footpath in Ploumanac’h starts from the main beach area and undulates along the Sentier des Douaniers for three miles. Enjoy the soft dreamy granite and unusual vistas.

the Chateau de Fougeres in the village of Fougeres Brittany

8. Fougeres

Tiny little Fougere is a delightful medieval village, only 40 minutes from Brittany’s chief city, Rennes. Fougeres is a must see for its fairytale-like chateau, the Chateau de Fougeres. The cutest spot in Fougeres is the Place du Marchix with its half timbered mansions and gardens.

For a delightful stroll through town, start at the parking lot near the chateau. Walk through Porte Sainte, the only remaining gate to the walled city. The chateau is on your left.

The chateau is more than 1000 years old. It has 13 towers connected by ramparts.

After circling the ramparts, head to the medieval quarter to visit Saint-Leonard church. There’s also a hilltop garden, the Jardin Public, next door. From the Church of Saint-Leonard you have the best view of the chateau.

colored half timbered houses in Vannes

The medieval town of Vannes is one of the best places to visit in the Morbihan (southern) region of Brittany. Vannes is an ancient town famous for its iconic cobbled lanes, narrow streets, and walled fortifications.

As you stroll, enjoy the phenomenal art and architecture. Visit the magnificent Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Hotel de Ville de Vannes, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vannes, and Henry IV Square.

Vannes is also known locally for its great foodie scene — especially crepes, local cider, and seafood. If you need a meal in Vannes, you’re in luck. Vannes is home to several Michelen starred restaurants, including Le Pressoir.

Traditional french stone houses with blue windows decorated with red flowers in

10. Roscoff

Roscoff is a charming seaside town located in the Finistère region on the northern coast. It’s officially designated a “ town of character.” You can explore the harbor, beaches, and the attractive architecture.

Roscoff is filled with 16th and 17th century buildings. The main sites are its 16th century church and botanical gardens.

Other highlights of this pretty Breton town include the historic botanical garden of Georges Delaselle Garden and the heritage museum of Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon de Roscoff.

Neolithic stones in Carnac in Brittany France

Carnac is a small, charming town on Brittany’s southern coastline. Carnac’s claim to fame is its Neolithic stones, the Carnac Stones. They are the world’s largest and densest collection of Neolithic monuments, with almost 3000 stones.

If you are a ruin luster, Carnac is a mandatory stop in Brittany. Erected by the pre-Celtic people, the stones may date to as early as 4500 BC. They consist of single standing stones called menhirs and multi-cluster stones called dolmens.

Their actual purpose remains mysterious. Various theories claim they were used for ceremonies, burial sites, and even astrological purposes.

The town of Carnac itself is divided into Carnac-Ville and Carnac-Plages (beaches). At the town center is the 17th century church, St. Cornely, and the Museum of Prehistory. Carnac-Plages is an seaside resort on Quiberon Bay, with fine sandy beaches and plenty of shops and restaurants.

Atlantic beach under the towers of city walls in St Malo

12. Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a charming walled town, thrust out into the sea and straight out of the history books. Founded in the 1st century, Saint Malo became a prominent Roman fortified site.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was a famous port used by trade ships and pirates alike. Saint Malo starred in the wonderful and evocative book All the Light We Cannot See , winner of the 2015 Pulitzer Prize.

The best things to do in Saint Malo are to wander along the town’s 12th century ramparts (a rewarding 1 mile romp), which encircle the town, and explore the ancient churches. Though seriously damaged in WWII, Saint Malo was restored to perfection. To see it all, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Saint Malo Cathedral also dates from the 12th century. It has some beautiful stained glass windows.

But strolling the cobbled streets is the main attraction. Discover Maison Hussaye, the oldest house in the city with a cute turret. After a stroll, head to the beach and relax.

the pretty town of Quimper

13. Quimper

The postcard perfect town of Quimper is one of Brittany’s most beautiful and oldest towns, located along the Odet River. Originally settled during Roman times, Quimper is the Celtic capital of the region. It’s all Gothic architecture, footbridges, and ancient cobbled lanes.

Quimper’s most famous landmark is the Cathedral of St. Corentin, built between the 12th and 18th centuries.

If you’re an art lover, you can wile away a couple hours in the Musee des Beaux-Arts or Quimper’s Pottery Museum. Quimper had an economic boom in the 17th century thanks to its pottery trade.

If you’re a fan of the BBC’s Poldark series, you may remember that Quimper is where Ross Poldark makes a daring rescue of Dwight Enes from prison. The episode (Season 3, Episode 5) was filmed onsite at the former convent turned prison in real life in 1790.

the port town of Auray in Brittany France

Auray has all the components of a quaint, easy on the eyes town.

Located in the port of Saint-Goustan, Auray is fill with historic half-timbered and stone houses. It’s is a lovely place with chic restaurants, tony cafes, and arty boutiques.

Auray dates back to the 1600s and 1700s, when the port was a major trading hub and source of international sales. The town even welcomed Benjamin Franklin in 1776 when he sought French assistance in the Revolutionary War.

pretty stone homes in Saint-Suliac

15. Saint-Suliac

Saint-Suliac is another of Brittany’s plus beaux villages. It’s a charming tiny fishing village, located between Saint-Malo and Dinan.

Its pretty granite houses, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, are adorned with flowers, painted shutters, and fishing nets.

There’s not much to do besides enjoy the swoonful scenery. There’s an attractive 13th century church, one of Brittany’s oldest. You’ll want to photograph every nook and cranny.

If you promenade down the Rue des Besnieres, you’ll come to a statue of the Virgin of Grainfollet, which was thought to protect the villagers from the likes of cholera.

pretty street in Moncontour in Brittany France

16. Moncontour

Beautiful Moncontour is another of France’s “les plus beaux” villages. It’s a medieval walled town perched on a hill at the confluence of two rivers.

Based on its location, Moncontour was a strategically important medieval village. Richelieu battered the town in the French Revolution. But its doughty fortress still remains.

The old town of Moncontour is incredibly charming. Its half timbered houses date from the 17th century, when Montocour was a wealthy trader in hemp and linen. The most delightful ones are on the Rue des Dames, Rue du Docteur Sagory, and the Place du Martray.

Moncontour also has a 16th century parish church with a belfry, Saint-Mathurin. It boasts superb stained glass windows, which ornament the choir and the nave.

the picturesque village of Dinan, near Mt. St. Michel

Hanging on the side of a cliff, Dinan is one of the most famous and magical villages in Brittany. In all of France really.

If you only have time for one stop in Brittany, make it Dinan. It’s an impeccably preserved ancient city that escaped the bombing of WWII.

Dinan is a walled village with hefty ramparts, cobbled lanes, and half timbers everywhere. Dinan has barely changed since the middle ages. What could be more romantic?

The best thing to do in Dinan is to simply savor its old world charm. Wander the port, walk the ancient medieval walls (1.8 miles), admire the 14th century Chateau de Dinan, and visit St. Sauveur Basilica.

 Rue du Jerzual in Dinan

The basilica dates from the 12th century. It’s a charming blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It has striking modern stained glass in a well lit nave.

But Dinan’s absolute must see site isn’t really a site at all. It’s a street, the Rue du Jerzual.

It’s the pedestrianized main street that winds through the town down to the port. Along the way, you’ll pass half timbers with wisteria covered facades, art galleries, and shops.

street in the historic village of Vitre in Brittany France

Vitre is a beguiling medieval town with a fairytale castle. It boasts Brittany’s characteristic half-timbered houses, stones cottages, and quaint cobbled streets.

The spiky castle is called the Chateau de Vitre. You can take a self guided tour. One tower is 6 levels high, affording great views. The fortified castle is small, but authentically foreboding.

The infamous Madame de Sévigné is Vitre’s most famous former resident. She was a novelist who fell in love with the chateau-castle and visited frequently.

Her private letters to her daughter — sparkling with wit, intelligence, and gossip — are considered one of the great works of 17th century literature.

Mont St. Michel, one of the most beautiful places in Brittany

19. Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most visited landmarks, dedicated to the Archangel St. Michael. It’s a breathtaking Gothic fortress-style island commune rising dramatically from the bay.

Both the rock top abbey and the cobbled alleys will leave you in a medieval state of mind.

The star attraction is the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel and its lovely cloister. It was settled in 996 by Bendictine monks. For 1,200 years, it’s been a Christian pilgrimage site. The abbey is a mix of architectural styles, with religious and military overtones.

After the French Revolution, when France was de-Christianized, the abbey became a prison. It was closed in 1863. In 1979, Mont St. Michel was declared a UNESCO site.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Mont Saint-Michel . Click here to pre-book a skip the line ticket.

You can visit on a  full day guided tour from Paris . Alternatively, you can book a  guided tour from Bayeux .

oysters from Cancale, the oyster capitol of Brittany France

20. Cancale

Cancale is a coastal fishing village. It’s also the oyster capitol of Brittany, gaining fame when it was featured in Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations .

If you’re crazy for oysters, you can even take a tour of the oyster beds with the Saint Malo tourist office.

While known for its oysters, Cancale is beloved for its natural beauty. You may even have a glimpse of Mont St. Michel. Stroll around the port, cruise on a traditional fishing board, and wander in the historic center.

You can even walk to Cancale from Saint Malo.

You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources for France:

  • 3 day itinerary for Paris
  • 5 day itinerary for Paris
  • Hidden gems in Paris
  • Secret hidden gems in France
  • Famous landmarks in France
  • 10 day itinerary for southern France
  • Charming hidden gems in Provence
  • Guide to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
  • 30+ beautiful towns in northern France
  • Beautiful villages in Normandy

If you’d like to visit the most beautiful villages in Brittany, pin it for later.

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2 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Towns In Off the Beaten Path Brittany”

Hi, Thank you for your suggestions, now i have an idea where to go. I am planning to go to Brittany in July. Where is a good base for 4 days to see all these towns and villages? Much appreciated.

Dinan and Vannes make good bases, I think. If you want to explore the north, try Ploumanac’h.

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Last Updated on March 5, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

solosophie

10+ Beautiful Towns in Brittany You Won’t Want to Miss

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 5th April 2022

Categories France

Last Updated on 5th April 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

The jagged coastline, azure waves, and a salty breeze constantly whistles through Brittany, an area on the very North-Western edge of France. The region is full of cute little villages, ancient cities and historical sites that are well worth a visit. Here are 10+ beautiful towns in Brittany that you won’t want to miss!

The region of Brittany is located in North Western France and is known as ‘Bretagne’ in French. With a distinctively different feel from the rest of the country, Brittany even has its own language, that of Breton . For more inspiration about the area, be sure to check out our suggested Brittany itinerary.

10 gorgeous places to visit in Northern France: dreamy view of Dinan, Brittany

#4 Saint-Malo

#8 quiberon, #9 rochefort-en-terre, #10 saint-servan, #14 cancale, #15 locronan, #16 concarneau, #17 paimpol, #18 sainte-marine and bénodet, enjoyed reading about the most beautiful towns in brittany pin this article now, read it again later:.

As the capital of the Brittany region, the charming city of Rennes is a great place to start when it comes to exploring the region. All timber-framed houses and grand gardens, you could easily spend a week getting lost along its cobbled lanes. The Grand Cathedral in the city centre is also well worth a visit, and dates all the way back to the early 1800s.

Rennes Brittany

Walled, medieval and full of cobbled lanes, Dinan is one of the most magical towns that all of France, if not Europe has to offer. The well-preserved fortifications that surround the town date all the way back to the middle ages (well before the region of Brittany was even incorporated into the French empire) .

If there’s one ‘must-see Dinan attraction’ you must visit, make it Rue du Jerzual. After all, the main high street which winds its way through the middle of the town and hasn’t changed all that much in centuries. Whilst here, make sure to try a ‘ Kouignn-Amann ,’ a local speciality primarily made using butter and sugar- heaven!

most beautiful towns in Brittany: Dinan

Located in the Morbihan region of Brittany (also home to sites like the Presqu’Île de Quiberon ), Vannes is an ancient city which is famed for its iconic cobbled lanes, narrow streets, and walled fortifications. The city is also known locally for its great food scene.

While in the charming city of Vannes , make sure to sample crêpes, local cider (a Breton speciality) , and some seafood- if you’re a fish eater. Otherwise, some of the top things to do in Vannes include wandering thro the stunning Saint-Peter Gothic cathedral and admiring the art of the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vannes.

Vannes Cathedral (Cathédrale St Pierre)

The charming walled town of Saint-Malo features heavily both in local myth and modern literature. And once you’ve visited, you can easily see why. The town’s heavily armed defences and location at the very edge of the land cut a striking picture in the landscape.

The town was founded as early as the 1st Century CE and soon after became a prominent Roman fort. Since then, the town has gone from strength to strength, even playing a key role in establishing the city of Quebec in Canada.

Today, you can still wander along the town’s ramparts, explore the ancient churches and discover the history of this ancient city for yourself. For more ideas of Saint-Malo’s top attractions, check out this guide to the best things to do in Saint-Malo .

most beautiful towns in Brittany: saint malo

Although best known for its ferry links to the UK, no list of the most beautiful towns in Brittany would be complete without at least a gentle nod to the charming town of Roscoff. Located in the Finistère region of Brittany, the town is known as being a ‘town of character’.

Today, thanks in part to the botanical gardens and 16th-century church, Roscoff attracts crowds of tourists all year round. Other highlights of the pretty Brittany town include the historical botanical garden of Georges Delaselle Garden and the heritage museum of Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon de Roscoff.

Roscoff Brittany

Carnac is a small, charming town on the fringes of the coastline. But what makes it so famous the world over are its strange alignments of Neolithic stones, situated a little outside of the settlement. In actual fact, the Carnac Stones together form the largest collection of Neolithic monuments in the world.

Altogether there are upwards of 3000 stones. These collections include dolmens  (a single chamber neolithic room ), menhirs ( a single standing stone ), and tumuli ( a grave mound ). Truly an amazing historical site to witness with your own eyes, if you make it your mission to see just one thing in Brittany, make it the Carnac stones!

Carnac Stones, Brittany, France

The picture-perfect town of Quimper is all gothic architecture and ancient walkways. Located alongside the Odet river, the town is the capital of the Finistère department of Brittany (the region of Brittany is divided into four departments).

Originally settled during Roman times, Quimper is the Celtic capital of the region, and as a result, you’ll find many Celtic influences throughout the settlement. The architecture of the town is characterised by small footbridges over the many streams punctuating the town, as well as Gothic architecture which dates back to the 13th-16th-Centuries.

Quimper Brittany

Situated by the sea, Quiberon lies at the end of Presqu’Île de Quiberon , an almost island at the edges of the sea. Quiberon may be nice, but what really draws you to the area is the wild landscape, rugged cliff faces, and sparkling water. Much of the coastal area alongside Quiberon is now a designated nature reserve.

The Quiberon peninsula is the kind of place you never get to hear about in guide books, but probably should do! Some of the best things to do in Quiberon include sampling the local cuisine (thanks to its position along the seaside, you’ll find plenty of seafood-inspired menus in this Brittany town), enjoying the many nearby beaches, and exploring the Côte Sauvage (Wild Coast) peninsula.

most beautiful towns in Brittany: quiberon

Perhaps the prettiest village in all of Brittany, Rochefort-en-Terre really is a throwback to a bygone era, where horses were used instead of cars, and where you collected every item of grocery in a different shop. Wander along the award-winning ancient streets (the town has previously been listed as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France) , and check out the town’s medieval Château.

Rochefort-en-Terre Brittany France

Of all the Brittany towns listed within this article, one of the lesser-known (yet still worth visiting) is that of Saint-Servan. Situated just a twenty-minute walk away from the walled city of Saint-Malo, highlights of the Breton settlement include a historic tower overlooking the sea (Solidor Tower) , several beaches, and plenty of independent shopping opportunities.

saint servan brittany france

Situated seaside, the quaint port town of Auray is well worth a visit if only to catch a glimpse of the rugged coastline that makes the region so iconic. Much of the town dates back to the 1600s and 1700s when the port was a major trading hub for international sales.

The port even welcomed Benjamin Franklin when he visited l’Hexagone to support the French Revolution. Today, the town is little changed and a visit to this, one of the most beautiful towns in Brittany, truly feels akin to stepping back in time.

Think small restaurants, chic boutiques and plenty of picturesque views. Otherwise, be sure to explore the many abbeys, chapels, and churches which litter the surrounding region. Situated alongside the Rivière d’Auvray, the location makes for a great base from which to explore the wider Morbihan department.

things to do in auray france europe

Not to be confused with the much more famous town of Dinan, the picturesque town of Dinard lies just across the water from the walled city of Saint-Malo (a ten-minute ferry ride, to be precise) and is one of the easiest day trips from Saint-Malo you could hope to take. Once in Dinard, some of the best things to do include seeing the many fine houses dotted across the town and myriad of nearby coastal walks.

dinard brittany france

Situated along the world-famous Brittany coastline, Brest is a beautiful town that looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook. All medieval fortifications and beautiful vistas, Brest is best-seen over the course of several days on account of its size.

Some of the best things to do in Brest include the National Navy Museum, which is housed in a former Château and strolling along the natural harbour front. Of all the beautiful towns in Brittany, Brest is easily one of the most stunning!

Brest Brittany France

Off the beaten tourist track and yet worth visiting nonetheless, Cancale is famed for its wealth of locally sourced seafood (including the chance to buy fresh oysters from the historic harbourside itself).

Other highlights of the Breton town of Cancale include numerous Brittany hiking trails, including the nearby ‘Pointe du Groin,’ which is the most Westerly point of the Bay of Mont Saint Michel. Be sure to visit this viewpoint at sunset if possible as the views are simply breathtaking!

cancale view, brittany, france

A particularly charming Brittany town which boasts wisteria during the spring months, colourful hydrangea bushes in the summer months, and adorable cobbled lanes all year ’round is that of Locronan, which can be found in the Finistère department of Brittany.

Other highlights of this charming Breton settlement (so stunning that it’s included in the guide to the most beautiful villages of France!) include a 15th-century church dedicated to St Ronan (be sure not to miss the green wooden pulpit), the museum of art and history, and the Petite Troménie, a pilgrim route to have been taken by St Ronan.

Locronan Brittany

Charming, medieval, and fortified to this very day with high walls that are spectacular to see around sunset, visitors to Brittany can’t go wrong by paying a visit to Concarneau, which can be found  in the Finistère department of Brittany.

As well as a modern part of town, there is a distinctly different area which encompasses the medieval slice of Concarneau, and it is here where most of the town’s main attractions can be found.

Concarneau

Though the fishing port of Paimpol lacks in number of attractions in comparison with some other towns in Brittany, what is lacks for in terms of things to do it more than makes up for in terms of sheer beauty and wealth of history.

Some of the top attractions in Paimpol include bathing in the natural swimming pool (which is at the end of the town’s main beach), learning about the cod fishing industry in Brittany by heading to the small Sea Museum, and strolling around the port.

visit paimpol brittany

One of the lesser-known hidden gems of Brittany is the harbour of Sainte-Marine, which is a little fishing village that lies on the fringes of Bénodet. Lying at the mouth of the River Odet, highlights of this Brittany community include the Odet River Lighthouse and wandering among the fishing houses.

Bénodet

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Tuesday 19th of September 2017

Thanks for the post! I can only visit one or two towns in this region on my next trip to France. Which do you think are the most historic/picturesque?

Sophie Nadeau

Thursday 21st of September 2017

Hi, Lilly and thanks for the comment! So many towns and villages are beautiful in this part of France that it's pretty hard to pick one! However, if I could only choose one town to visit, it would most definitely be Dinan as it's filled with pretty houses, cobbled streets and plenty of history. :)

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The most beautiful towns and prettiest villages in brittany (france).

  • Post published: 14 January 2022
  • Post category: Brittany / Europe / France

No matter which region you choose to explore in France, there are always beautiful towns and villages to visit. Brittany is no different. Although most of the obvious things to do in Brittany are related to the ocean, Brittany also offers a strong heritage and culture. Here’s my (non-exhaustive!) selection of the most beautiful towns and prettiest villages in Brittany.

Houses and shops with wooden and stone facades in a pretty village in Brittany (Treguier)

I’ve ordered the list by region so that you can more easily find a lovely town or village to visit near you. The numbers are not my order of preference; they are useful to locate the place on the map at the end of the article.

The most beautiful towns and villages in Ille et Villaine (north)

Square full of people in front of beautiful half-timbered houses in Rennes, Brittany.

I hesitated to include Rennes in my list of beautiful towns and villages in Brittany. It’s the biggest city in Brittany, and it doesn’t have the atmosphere most people look for when looking for beautiful towns and villages. However, if you wander in the old town, you’ll find beautiful squares and buildings with many restaurants and lively terraces in summer.

The medieval city of Vitré is at the junction of three French regions: Brittany, Normandy and Anjou. The streets of Vitré are very charming, with a castle, half-timbered houses and rich residences.

2. Fougères

best places to visit in southern brittany

Located at the limit of Brittany and Normandy, Fougères is home to Europe’s biggest medieval fortress. The beautiful castle will take you on a journey to learn more about the Dukes of Brittany. Also, Fougere’s beautiful belfry is one of the oldest in Brittany. If you prefer to relax in a more natural setting, you’ll find two lovely gardens not far from the town centre, and there’s also an ancient forest with megalithic sites just near the town.

3. Combourg

best places to visit in southern brittany

The village of Combourg was made famous by Chateaubriand . The famous French poet lived there from 1777, so Combourg is seen sometimes referred to as the “cradle of romanticism”. Those who read its book Mémoires d’Outre Tombe will find it particularly interesting.

There are lovely views of the castle from the lake, and the city centre is made of beautiful houses with noble granite and half-timbered façades. We enjoyed our time there, but I wouldn’t recommend visiting Combourg if your time in Brittany is limited or if you’re not interested in learning more about Chateaubriand. There are more beautiful villages in the region.

4. Saint Malo

Saint Malo

Saint Malo is one of the most famous towns in Brittany as it is located not far from the Mont Saint Michel , the second most visited French attraction. The historic city is beautiful and lively with shops, restaurants and cafés. The walk around the ramparts (about two kilometres) offers wonderful views of the coast, the 18th-century island forts and the port of Saint Malo. You can climb to the top of the castle to get stunning views of the area too.

If you have time, take a detour to Saint Suliac, only 10 kilometres away, on your way to Dinan. Saint Suliac has a lovely port on the estuary of the river La Rance.

The most beautiful towns and villages in Cotes d’Armor (north)

best places to visit in southern brittany

Many have said Dinan is the prettiest town they’ve visited in Brittany. And I may agree!

As you explore the narrow streets of the medieval walled town, you feel that you’ve travelled back in time. The ramparts – the oldest ones in Brittany – are impressive. You can climb to the top of the 40-meter high Tour de l’Horloge to get wonderful views over Dinan and the region. The lovely port on the river and the 40-meter high viaduct are not to be missed. Make sure you also check out Rue du Petit-Fort and rue de Jerzual, which you’ll see on many postcards in Brittany.

6. Moncontour

I admit that I have never visited Moncontour. But it is on the list of France’s most beautiful villages , so I thought it would be logical to include it on my list of Brittany’s most beautiful villages. Like a few others on this list, the ramparts and the half-timbered houses and bourgeois residences create a charming village.

7. Plougrescant

Plougrescant - Best Of Brittany

The village of Plougrescant is not as charming as the other ones on the list of pretty villages in Brittany. But it is home to one of the most picturesque houses you’ll ever see, so it is worth the detour. It used to be on many postcards from Brittany before the owner of the house forbade it.

8. Treguier

Houses with wooden facades in a pretty village in Brittany (Treguier)

Treguier has a lovely old district with stunning houses from the 15th and 16th centuries. Its beautiful cathedral is an imposing and interesting masterpiece with three towers, each with a different architectural style. The small harbour on the Gaudy River is lovely too.

9. Lannion and Ploumanac’h

best places to visit in southern brittany

I hesitated to include Lannion on this list of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. It’s mentioned on some lists, so I thought it could be helpful to share our experience in Lannion. We spent one night there and had a very quick look at the town centre.

In the heart of the historic town, you will love the sculpted decorations on the slate houses and the beautiful half-timbered houses. The manors have towers attached to the front; they house spiral staircases. Although the few houses looked lovely, we found there wasn’t much to see compared to many other villages and towns in Brittany. It’s worth a quick detour if you’re passing by, but I wouldn’t recommend specifically organising a visit to Lannion.

The tourist information website praises the views from the Brélévenez church at the top of 140 steps (but you can also drive there). We weren’t really impressed.

It takes approximately 20 minutes to drive from Lannion to Ploumanac’h , near Perros Guirec, which was named French people’s favourite village in 2015. I don’t find the village itself particularly interesting: it’s a small beach town with a small port like many others in Brittany. However, the natural Pink Granit Coast there is stunning if you’re looking for impressive scenery rather than lovely building.

The most beautiful towns and villages in Finistere (west)

10. roscoff.

best places to visit in southern brittany

Roscoff is an interesting detour if you’re on the northern coast of Finistere. A 3.5-kilometre heritage circuit will take you to all the must-sees around town. From the port of Roscoff, ferries leave to go to Ireland, so all interpretative signs are also in English.

11. Landerneau

Between the river and the sea, Landerneau has remarkable charms you won’t find in other beautiful villages in Brittany. The most notable building is probably the Rohan bridge, built in the 16th century. It is the only bridge in Europe that still has people living on it.

12. Locronan

best places to visit in southern brittany

Some say Locronan has lost its charms and has become a village made for tourists. It’s true that tourism is driving the rhythm of this small village, and you won’t find many locals around. But it’s still one of the prettiest villages in Brittany. It looks like time has stopped there, and the atmosphere from the old, cobbled, pedestrian-only streets makes you feel like you’ve just entered a movie set. I really enjoyed my time in Locronan.

13. Quimper

With lovely squares and pedestrian streets in the city centre, Quimper is a lovely town in Brittany. You won’t be able to miss the Cathedral Saint Corentin when visiting Quimper. Indeed, its spires can be seen from almost every street. It took more than three centuries to build it.

Quimper is known to be the cultural heart of Brittany. So if you like museums, allow enough time to visit all that Quimper has to offer.

14. Concarneau

The walled town of Concarneau (Concarneau Ville Close) is quite extraordinary and one of the most visited sites in Brittany. Indeed, it even gets a bit too crowded in summer, so plan to go there early if you are visiting Brittany during the peak season. Concarneau Ville Close is located on a small island accessible via two bridges. It’s made of narrow streets with beautiful houses and shops. You can take a walk around the ramparts for spectacular views.

The fishing port of Concarneau is one of the most active ports in France. You may find it interesting to watch a fish auction (around 6.30 am) or fishermen unload their catch (around 10 pm).

15. Pont Aven

No one will argue Pont Aven shouldn’t have a spot on a list of the prettiest villages in Brittany. Many artists over the years stayed in Pont Aven and were inspired by its beauty. The famous French painter  Paul Gaugin  created the  Pont Aven School . Those who love art will want to allow time to visit the galleries and museums while in Pont Aven.

16. Quimperlé

Two rivers meet in Quimperlé to create a third one. The narrow cobbled streets and lovely bridges full of flowers are lovely to explore. The Church abbey of Sainte-Croix, built in the 11th century, is at the heart of the beautiful village. Because of the lack of space, the village had to develop on the hill. With the Notre Dame of the Assumption Church at the top, it is sometimes referred to as the “Mont Saint-Michel of the land”. I find the comparison quite exaggerated, but it is still a lovely view.

The most beautiful towns and villages in Morbihan (south)

17. saint goustan (auray).

Best of Brittany Saint Goustan Auray

The port of Saint Goustan and Auray are next to each other and both worth a visit. I reckon Saint Goustan is the most picturesque port in Brittany. You can walk across the four-arch stone bridge from the 13th century to get the best views of this charming village along the river. The cobbled streets and half-timbered facade houses with sailing boats in front make postcard-perfect pictures.

Vannes Rampart - Best of Brittany

Vannes, the capital of Morbihan, is one of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. It is very enjoyable to explore its multiple facets and atmospheres. The port is very lively with restaurants and bars. Inside the walls, the heart of the medieval city takes you back in time with about 272 heritage-listed buildings in the town. Just outside the walls, it’s a pleasure to have a stroll in the lovely public gardens.

19. Rochefort en Terre

best places to visit in southern brittany

Rochefort en Terre is one of the most visited villages in Brittany. In summer, only pedestrians can access the lovely cobbled streets. Beautiful, colourful flowers always add to the charms of this pretty village where 16th-century half-timbered houses are mixed with Renaissance buildings. From the castle, the view of the roofs and their different shapes is interesting.

Rochefort en Terre was named French people’s favourite village in 2016.

20. Malestroit

Malestroit was built in the 11th century between two arms of the Oust River. Even when you go inland, all the beautiful villages in Brittany have strong links to the water. Place du Bouffay is a perfect place to sit down and admire the surrounding buildings. Malestroit is located on the Nantes-Brest Canal, and Josselin is just a bit further north.

21. Josselin

best places to visit in southern brittany

With a beautiful castle and old town next to a lovely canal, it’s not surprising to find Josselin on the list of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. You’ll find pretty medieval half-timbered houses in the Sainte-Croix district, and you can climb up to the top of the bell tower of the Gothic Basilica Notre Dame du Roncier to get panoramic views of the area. Although it’s at the end of my list, it is one of my favourite villages to visit in Brittany.

If you continue north on the Nantes-Brest Canal, you will reach Pontivy. This town in the middle of Brittany used to be called Napoleonville. It is a must-see for those passionate about history and Napoleon Bonaparte, who wanted to turn Pontivy into the capital of the region.

What are the most beautiful towns in Brittany? Do you know a pretty village in Brittany that’s not on my list? Share your experience in the comments below!

Map of the most beautiful towns and prettiest villages in brittany.

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Saint Goustan really looks like a pretty town! Would really love to come there grab a cup of coffee and read a book by the harbor! Thanks for sharing!

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Top 10 Brittany Beaches

When we think of beaches in France, our minds naturally wander to the South of France – sometimes it’s easy to overlook the beauty of Western France’s coastline… in particular, well-known surf mecca, Brittany. Wild and rugged, with some beautifully unspoilt crescents, the scenic coastline of Brittany stretches for more than 1,000 miles. It was a difficult task, but we managed to narrow it down to our top 10 Brittany beaches for all your seaside holiday needs (not just surfing!).

Best for families: Plage de l’Écluse

Brittany Beaches - Plage de l’Écluse Dinard

This fine sandy beach in Dinard is great for a family day out – safe for swimming and wide enough for all manner of beach games, you can kick back with a book in the sunshine while the kids run wild. Although quite a popular spot for locals and visitors, you can always find somewhere to lie your towel – and with the promenade behind, there’s plenty of places for a bite to eat.

Best for surfing: Saint Tugen

Brittany is a magnet for surfers looking for lesser-known surf spots, and although this is quite a well-known surf beach, it remains uncrowded – outside of the main summer months, anyway. When it gets to summer, Saint Tugen has a few lifeguards posted because the swell is so huge and the currents are strong (making it a risky place for a swim). So, if you visit outside of summer, take care if you want to go for a dip. A beautiful and wild surf beach with reliable waves in all tides , for all experiences. 

Best for escaping the crowds: La Palue

La Palue Brittany Beaches

Known as ‘the end of the Earth’, the Crozon Peninsula is peppered with unspoilt beaches, hidden coves and great hikes… it’s also home to our third best beach in Brittany, La Palue. Relatively uncrowded, rich in wildlife, and with a sweet nearby village – you’ll escape the crowds and get a taste of real Brittany. Although surfing tourism hasn’t hugely picked up yet in La Palue (which adds to its charm)… it’s known for its consistent breaks and great waves – it’s surfable in all tides!

Best for water-sports: Saint-Pierre-Quiberon

Brittany Beaches -Saint-Pierre-Quiberon

This seaside resort in the north of the Quiberon Peninsula has a rugged charm, like most of Brittany’s beaches. Surrounded by coastal wilderness, the area is good for cycling and walking – however its main draw is its array of water-based activities. With a national sailing school, it’s great for lovers of sailing, but you can also take on kayaking, diving, kitesurfing and sand yachting.

Best for castaway vibes: Les Canons

The gorgeous island of Belle-Ile lies just off the coast of Brittany and is naturally punctuated with sandy bays, rocky inlets, and surf beaches (60 beaches in total!). It was difficult to pick a favourite, but we landed on Les Canons, a remote beach with fine sand, clear water and generally not another person in sight! Live that French island life, mon chérie.  

Best for dramatic scenery: Ile Vierge

Brittany Beaches - Ile Vierge

Another beach that belongs to the Crozon Peninsula, Ile Vierge in Morgat is a natural beauty. Not the easiest to get to, you have to walk down steep, crumbly terrain from the car park (so this isn’t a good option for those with little ones or reduced mobility)… however, the beach that awaits you is well worth the effort! The dramatic scenery and white sand make for beautiful views, while the clear waters and caves are great for snorkelling and swimming.

Best for a little bit of everything: Plage du Sillon

This sandy, golden stretch in Saint-Malo goes for 3km, meaning that even when it’s busy it never really feels like it. Voted the best beach in France in TripAdvisor’s 2018 Traveller’s Choice Awards, whatever kind of beach day you’re looking for, you can get it at Plage du Sillon. Fully supervised, you can be confident in the knowledge it’s a safe beach for the kids, there are all the facilities you could need – along with a bar and a restaurant, it’s great for a slow amble along the water’s edge, as well as windsurfing, kiting and sand yachting. You can even visit a spa that overlooks the beach and offers treatments like sea walking and yoga on the beach!  

Best for epic coastal views: Baie des Trespasses

Baie Des Trepasses Brittany Beaches

Credit: S Moller via Wikimedia

Also known as The Bay of the Dead due to the shipwrecked bodies that used to wash up on the shore – thankfully those days are over – Baie des Trespasses is a very scenic, unspoilt beach that’s popular with surfers – it comes complete with a surf school and supervision. Flanked by both Pointe du Raz and Pointe du Van, if you take a walk to either of the two you’ll be treated to some amazing sea views out to Île de Sein and the famous Ar Men lighthouse. If you’re aiming to walk the GR34 coastal path, it’ll take you from one to the other.

Best for bucket-and-spade days: Plage de Trestraou

Perros-Guirec is a chic, family-friendly resort at the heart of the Pink Granite Coast and is home to the second to last entry on our list – Plage de Trestraou. Wide, sandy, and great for a traditional bucket-and-spade type holiday, this stretch of beach is sheltered by rocky outlets at either end and is backed by a bustling promenade with shops and eateries. Making it one of the best beaches in Brittany for a more traditional seaside day out. 

Best for history: LostMarc’h

Brittany Beaches - Lostmarc'h

Yes, you read that right, there’s actually a beach on this list that offers up a little bit of history! An ancient area with a cliff fort and menhir from the Iron Age, as well as ruins of a 17th-century lookout, LostMarc’h is great for a wild coastal walk to these sites. The beach is a good spot for surfing too, with fairly consistent Atlantic swells completely unsheltered, however, it’s not really a safe spot for swimming as there are strong currents and no lifeguards. 

Brittany beaches map

Did our list of best beaches in Brittany make you want to explore this lesser-known coastline? We’ve got a great selection of villas in Brittany close to all the sandy action! If you’re just not sure what you’re after, give our concierge team a shout – they’ll be happy to help you find your next coastal getaway!

Looking for a full list of villas to rent this year? Check out our villa holidays page here.

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3 Responses

best places to visit in southern brittany

Brittany has so many beaches, it must have been hard for you to choose the top 10. Silicon beach belongs on top of the list, I think it’s one of the best beaches in Europe.

best places to visit in southern brittany

It’s definitely been a hard one! So many great ones. Oooo ok, I’ve not heard of that one but I’m sure it’s also amazing 🙂

best places to visit in southern brittany

Looks like some decent beaches.

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The 10 most beautiful parks and gardens

What will you go for? English style or French? Country landscapes or exotic gardens? In Brittany we have a huge range of parks and gardens. This is a land of mariners and travellers; they’ve brought back species from the four corners of the globe. This wealth of varieties is also due to the temperate climate and the soils that are especially suitable for acclimatising exotic species. Come and wake up your senses and get away from it all in Brittany’s ten most beautiful gardens.

  • 1 The Georges Delaselle Garden
  • 2 La Roche Jagu estate
  • 3 The Brest National Botanical Conservatory
  • 4 The Cornouaille Botanical Park
  • 5 La Ballue Garden
  • 6 The Brocéliande Gardens
  • 7 The Haute Bretagne Botanical Park
  • 8 Kerdalo Garden
  • 9 The Trévarez estate park
  • 10 Daoulas Abbey

batz-jardindelaselle-e-berthier-para2.jpg

1. The Georges Delaselle Garden

A small exotic world.

On the Isle of Batz , the Georges Delasselle Garden takes you around the world. This garden was laid out in 1897 by Georges Delaselle, a Parisian businessman with a passion for exotic species that he planted over a period of 40 years. It gives pride of place to summer-flowering plants that remind you of faraway places. There are 2,000 species, representing all the continents, with plants from California, Australia, Chile or South Africa growing side by side with natives of other foreign lands. It’s definitely a change of scene!

Georges Delaselle Garden

2. La Roche Jagu estate

Outstanding views.

In the heart of Le Trégor province, the 15th-century Château de la Roche-Jagu and its medieval-style estate offer outstanding views over the Trieux estuary. As you stroll through the grounds you’ll come across a wide range of different landscapes: medieval gardens, a palm grove, an avenue of camellias, lakes and retting ponds and salt meadows… not forgetting the horse pond and the pergola pathway with its sweet scents of roses, honeysuckle and wisteria. This 74-hectare estate can be explored on foot without booking ahead. Entrance is free and it’s open all year round.

La Roche Jagu estate

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3. The Brest National Botanical Conservatory

A world-tour of endangered plants.

In the heart of the Stang-Alar valley, just a short walk from the town centre, the Brest National Botanical Conservatory has been working to protect threatened plant species for 40 years. As you pass through its garden or tropical glass-houses, you’re taking a world tour of endangered plant species: heathers, bamboos, sequoias, eucalyptus, hibiscus, tree ferns and many more. From Armorica to America, from Mauritius to the Canaries, this centre of science and relaxation tells the story and displays the fragile beauty of the plant kingdom throughout the seasons.

Brest National Botanical Conservatory

4. The Cornouaille Botanical Park

An english symphony.

The Cornouaille Botanical Park, located between Bénodet and Pont-L’Abbé, boasts a collection of 4,000 plants from all over the world, a water-garden, an exotic garden and a museum of minerals. Through the months and along the avenues, you can explore the meanderings of this park in the English style, where curves are everywhere. Camellias, rhododendrons, magnolias, maples, hydrangeas and water-lilies mingle and complement each other in a symphonic arrangement of form, colour and scent.

Cornouaille Botanical Park

parc-botanique-de-cornouaille-combrit-4.jpg

5. La Ballue Garden

The most beautiful garden for topiary art.

La Ballue Garden is close to the Mont-Saint-Michel and overlooks the Couesnon valley. It draws its inspiration from Italian baroque. There’s plenty to interest visitors, including a fun labyrinthine route that passes through 13 different green enclosures. The garden is laid out geometrically, in the French style. Its topiary art, château and undulating landscape add to its harmonious beauty. Yews, privets, wisteria, box and bay shape the space into amazing volumes, perspectives and effects of light and shade. You’d think Lewis Carroll or Tim Burton had designed it. Entering this garden is like stepping into a picture.

La Ballue Garden

Read also Art in the great outdoors

6. The Brocéliande Gardens

The most mysterious of all.

At Bréal-sous-Montfort, tours of the Brocéliande Gardens happen upside down. You follow routes called Réveille tes pieds (Wake up your feet), Active tes sens (Awaken your senses), File là-haut (Climb up high) or Joue de l’eau. You go around in bare feet, with a blindfold, up the trees or with your head in the clouds, so you experience sensory adventures like never before. Feel the magic of the Sentier des korrigans (the elves’ pathway) or laugh at the inhabitants of Poul’ailleurs. If you’re in a more contemplative frame of mind, opt for an Asiatic Excursion or a stroll through the irises, roses and lilacs or the orchards filled with ancient apple varieties. In this garden with a difference, biodiversity goes hand in hand with creativity and working together.

Brocéliande Gardens

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7. The Haute Bretagne Botanical Park

The most original.

Not far from Fougères , let your imagination run free in the Haute Bretagne Botanical Park. Covering 25 hectares, it has 24 poetic gardens in three groups (gardens of Arcadia, romantic gardens and twilight gardens), which will transport you down the ages and across continents. From spring to autumn, you can enjoy the many species, scents and views, and the ever-changing beauty of light and colours, from the ethereal blue of the hydrangeas to the flamboyant red of the rhododendrons. Have a family adventure tracking down a T-Rex, a ghost, the Minotaur or the weird carnivorous plants!

Haute Bretagne Botanical Park

8. Kerdalo Garden

The most romantic.

In the depths of a valley that slopes steeply down to the River Jaudy, the artist Peter Volkonski designed the 17-hectare Kerdalo Garden (today managed by his daughter and son-in-law) as a living tableau, with a strong chromatic bias and with water as the unifying principle. You’ll see ponds, cascades, a water staircase, a grotto, pavilions, bas-reliefs made of seashells and more. The soul and magic of this romantic place, crafted by nature and art, is utterly charming. Italian terraces sit side by side with English gardens and a meadow surrounds the manor house. It’s a real treasure, enriched by the presence of 5,000 local species, including many acid-loving cultivars, together with wild and exotic plants.

Kerdalo Garden

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9. The Trévarez estate park

Centuries-old and contemporary too.

In the centre of Finistère, overlooking the valley of the river Aulne, the Domaine de Trévarez park is the vast, 85-hectare setting for the pink Belle Époque château that was the modernist dream of James de Kerjégu. Its eclecticism is remarkable: French, Italian, Japanese, romantic gardens, fountains and architectural fantasies. And the park uses the landscape and the forest to its best advantage. With centuries-old collections of camellias, rhododendrons, not to mention oak trees, maples and fuchsias, the plant life provides a spectacular feast for the eyes in every season. You can also get to know the world of the contemporary artist is invited each year to be the artist in residence at the château (in 2016, the sculptor Robert Schad) and there are lots of entertainments and activities to keep the family amused.

Trévarez estate park

10. Daoulas Abbey

The most virtuous.

Among its many treasures, Daoulas Abbey has a remarkable medicinal plant garden organised on two levels: Western Europe on one side and Oceania, Africa, America and Asia on the other. Overlooking the abbey church and the cloister, this herb garden combines medieval and Renaissance influences and forms a contrast with the romantic style of the vast grounds that surround it. From 2016 onwards, a garden containing medicinal trees has been added to complete the picture. There’s a camphor tree, a mandrake, a tea-tree and more. You can discover the medicinal, aromatic and flavouring properties of the 300 species from all over the world.

Daoulas Abbey

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  1. Southern Brittany

    Southern Brittany - Morbihan Gulf. Enjoy the gentle pace of life on the Gulf's islands, discover megalithic secrets and half-timbered houses, experience the thrills of ocean racing, picnic at the isle of Groix on the deck of a traditional sailboat, and take a stroll along the banks of the Blavet and Scorff rivers.

  2. 25 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Brittany

    Roscoff and Île de Batz. Map of Attractions & Places to Visit in Brittany. 1. Saint-Malo. Saint-Malo. This quintessential Breton port is a former island near the mainland. Designed as a citadel, Saint-Malo boasts well-preserved medieval fortifications that lend a distinctive character to the city.

  3. The 10 Best Places In Brittany You Don't Want To Miss!

    6. Rochefort-en-Terre. Not all ' plus beaux villes' are created equal. We were slightly disappointed by the nearby PBV village of La Gacilly when we were out one day, in search of all the best places to visit in Brittany, but finishing off the second half of our day in Rochefort-en-Terre was the enhancement we needed.

  4. From little villages to charming ports in Southern Brittany

    Ask a Groisillon the way. The islanders' sense of hospitality is not just a legend! Between Groix and Hennebont, the bay of Lorient offers exceptional navigation conditions and six ports which are all charming stopping points. With 40 km of bicycle routes, cycling is the best way to get around Groix. You can also opt for an electric car.

  5. Best Things to Do in Brittany, France

    The alignments of Carnac are located in Morbihan, Southern Brittany. It is an exceptional site of megalithic alignments of more than 3,000 menhirs over more than 4 kilometers. ... Brocéliande forest is one of the best places to visit in Brittany, France, very easy to visit on a day trip from Rennes. For those without a car, we recommend taking ...

  6. 15 best things to do in Brittany

    9. Kayak through a secluded lagoon. It is not hard to see why Les Glénan archipelago is often compared to Tahiti. Made of seven islands and a dozen smaller islets, Les Glénan offers an exceptional - and largely uninhabited - spectacle of sandy beaches and translucent water.

  7. The 14 Best Places to Visit in Brittany

    The Best Places to Visit in Brittany By Naomi. Copywriter & Editor. Itineraries & Travel Tips The Best of France. November 2022. ... The Gulf of Morbihan is a pretty, protected bay in southern Brittany filled with gorgeous little islands with beautiful scenery. One of the largest islands is the Île aux Moines - you can take a day-trip there by ...

  8. The Most Beautiful Towns In Brittany France

    Dinan. Dinan is one of Brittany's best-preserved medieval-walled towns. It's a designated Ville d'art et d'histoire (Town of Art and History), and it supports local artists and craftspeople at its weekly market, Place du Guesclin, named after a 14th-century knight. Walk along its 3km (2mi) long ramparts, climb the St Catherine Tower and ...

  9. 20 Most Beautiful Towns In Off the Beaten Path Brittany

    These Brittany towns are among the best places to go and visit in France. Planning a trip in northern France? This Brittany travel guide takes you to the 20 most beautiful towns and villages in Brittany. ... Carnac is a small, charming town on Brittany's southern coastline. Carnac's claim to fame is its Neolithic stones, the Carnac Stones. ...

  10. Brittany, France: travel guide, places to visit and attractions in Brittany

    Perros-Guirec. One of our favourite towns in Brittany, Dinard is well known for its belle-epoque villas. Dinard. The Morbihan Gulf is well placed for exploring the islands off the southern coast of Brittany. Morbihan Gulf. An extensive historical centre and lively atmosphere make Vannes an unmissable highlight of your visit. Vannes.

  11. The 10 destinations

    It's a funny place, Brittany. Although it's one distinct region, it can be divided up. There are ten unique geographical destinations here: ten worlds to explore that reveal Brittany's many faces. Discover the 'Terres Océanes' at the western tip, the Forest of Broceliande, the green inner lung, the little ports of Cornouaille (Brittany's Cornwall), and the pink granite rocks.

  12. Brittany places to visit and attractions

    Brittany highlights; Brittany places to visit and attractions. ... La Forêt-Fouesnant is a small village with the third largest marina in southern Brittany. See guide. Landerneau (Finistere) ... The quiet small town of Locmariquer is best known for the famous oysters produced here, and available in the local restaurants! ...

  13. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Brittany

    Historic Walking Areas. By 316dawnj. Fantastic place to walk, great views! 6. Oceanopolis. 3,720. Aquariums. One of Brittany's main tourist attractions, this aquarium is known as the biggest open-air aquarium in Europe. See full details.

  14. 10+ Beautiful Towns in Brittany You Won't Want to Miss

    #3 Vannes. Located in the Morbihan region of Brittany (also home to sites like the Presqu'Île de Quiberon), Vannes is an ancient city which is famed for its iconic cobbled lanes, narrow streets, and walled fortifications. The city is also known locally for its great food scene. While in the charming city of Vannes, make sure to sample crêpes, local cider (a Breton speciality), and some ...

  15. The most beautiful towns and prettiest villages in Brittany (France)

    Saint Malo is one of the most famous towns in Brittany as it is located not far from the Mont Saint Michel, the second most visited French attraction.The historic city is beautiful and lively with shops, restaurants and cafés. The walk around the ramparts (about two kilometres) offers wonderful views of the coast, the 18th-century island forts and the port of Saint Malo.

  16. 36 Wonderful Things to Do in Brittany, France

    Port De St Goustan. One of the best free things to do in Brittany at night is visit the Port de Saint-Goustan on the Auray River. Saint-Goustan is a former fishing port and trading centre. To explore the charming port, guests can stroll along the shady terrace and cross the four-arched stone bridge with splendid views.

  17. Top 10 Brittany Beaches: From Surf Hotspots to Sandy Beauties

    Best for castaway vibes: Les Canons. The gorgeous island of Belle-Ile lies just off the coast of Brittany and is naturally punctuated with sandy bays, rocky inlets, and surf beaches (60 beaches in total!). It was difficult to pick a favourite, but we landed on Les Canons, a remote beach with fine sand, clear water and generally not another ...

  18. Brittany

    Brittany. Art, History & Archaeology Sites & Museums. Brittany is the westernmost region of France, it is that large peninsula extending out into the Atlantic Ocean. The region has the greatest concentration of megalithic sites than anywhere else in the world. Rennes has been an important city since Roman times, and while many know of the ...

  19. The official website for Brittany Tourism

    Brittany is all about getting away from it all, whether you're walking or enjoying good food, following your dreams or just exploring. Along the footpaths, on the beach or in the cobbled streets, take a deep breath of sea air and let yourself go: this is Brittany! Beaches and seaside activities. Nature and Outdoor Activities.

  20. Things to do / see

    There's something for everyone in Brittany, with its countryside, coastline and heritage. You'll never make the same trip twice; there's so much to see and do. Beaches and footpaths, châteaux and forts, zoos, aquariums and museums. Coves for canoeing and paddle-boarding, canals where you can walk along the towpath, golf-courses where you can practice your swing, theme parks where you ...

  21. Road trip itineraries

    Southern Brittany - Morbihan Gulf. Rennes and Brittany's historic gateways. Cap Fréhel - Saint-Malo - Mont Saint-Michel Bay. Brittany Loire Ocean. Pink Granite Coast - Morlaix Bay. Do you want to discover Brittany, but don't know where to begin? Let yourself be guided! To the south, to the north, from top to bottom, for four to.

  22. Road Trip France: 10 Must-Visit Places Around Normandy & Brittany

    Carnac. One of the most historic and downright curious locations anywhere in France, Carnac is home to several sites that date back around 5,000 years. Carnac is such a remarkable and unique place that you don't have to be an everyday history-buff to get a real kick out of its Neolithic treasures.

  23. The 10 most beautiful parks and gardens

    Yews, privets, wisteria, box and bay shape the space into amazing volumes, perspectives and effects of light and shade. You'd think Lewis Carroll or Tim Burton had designed it. Entering this garden is like stepping into a picture. La Ballue Garden. Read also Art in the great outdoors. 6. The Brocéliande Gardens.