brittany tourism office

Rennes Tourist Office

Welcome to rennes, capital of brittany.

Degemer mat!*

* “Welcome” in Breton

Rennes is a multi-faceted city of many influences, a pleasantly sized city with a strong Breton character. A lively, student city, a hot spot for food lovers and host to a number of festivals all year round. The economic and cultural capital of Brittany has also managed to retain its small-town atmosphere, where everything can be done on foot. With its pedestrianised streets, squares, monuments, colourful half-timbered houses and lively terraces, Rennes will charm you with the originality of its heritage and the hospitality of its inhabitants.

“An ideal location for visiting legendary sites”

Located just 1 hour 25 minutes from Paris by high-speed train (TGV), Rennes is the ideal destination for visiting Brittany’s legendary sites: in less than an hour from Rennes you’ll be in Saint-Malo and on the beaches of the Emerald Coast, at the heart of the mythical Broceliande Forest, the birthplace of Arthurian legends, or gazing over towards Mont-Saint-Michel. Rennes also lies at the crossroads of the region’s main cycling routes. Its privileged location makes Rennes the Goldilocks of tourist destinations: “just right” for discovering all the treasures of Brittany.

Travel time from Rennes

• To Saint-Malo : By Rennes-Saint-Malo train – operated by SNCF. Travel time: 50 min. Full fare: €15. By car: 55 minutes on the RN137 trunk road.
• To Mont-Saint-Michel : By Rennes-Mont-Saint-Michel bus – operated by Keolis. Travel time: 1 h 10 min. Full fare: €15. By car: 59 minutes on the A84 motorway (no toll).
• To Brocéliande Forest : By Bus n°1a – operated by Breizhgo. Travel time: 1 h. Full fare: €5. By car: 45 minutes on the RN 24 towards Lorient/Vannes.
• To Gulf of Morbihan : By Rennes-Vannes train – operated by SNCF. Travel time: 1 h. Full fare: €20. By car: 1 h 30 min. on the RN 24.
• To Nantes : By Rennes-Nantes train – operated by SNCF. Travel time: 1 h 15 min. Full fare: €18. 1 h by car on the N137.

10 must-have experiences in Rennes

Where you can stay in Rennes

Hotels and accommodation to suit every taste

In Rennes, you’ll find a wide range of hotels and accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. The youth hostel is located on the banks of the canal along the V42 green cycle route to Saint-Malo, not far from the Gayeulles campsite, which is set in a huge park close to the green route. Other establishments are also very affordable in terms of rates, such as the riverside Chouettes Hostel, which has shared dormitories, one of which is reserved for girls. When it comes to unusual accommodation, there are several places you won’t want to miss: the Mama Shelter, located at the heart of the historic center, and the Magic Hall, both of which offer highly original decor and an ideal location.

For lovers of relaxation, there are several 4- and 5-star spa hotels with swimming pools and wellness areas to choose from: the BW Premier Collection Saint-Antoine hôtel & Spa, the Novotel Spa and the Balthazar Hôtel & Spa, all just a 5-minute walk from the train station. Located a little further from the centre but accessible by metro, the BW Plus Hôtel Isidore and the Hôtel LeCoqGadby Hôtel & Spa are also ideal choices for those who enjoy massages, jacuzzi pools, hammams, etc.

You’ll find other beautiful residences around Rennes too: the Domaine de Cicé Blossac, a beautiful 4-star property nestled at the heart of a riverside golf course, the Château d’Apigné and its immense park, where you can live that authentic château lifestyle, and numerous charming B&Bs and gîtes if you’re looking to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Breton countryside.

A pleasantly sized city

In Rennes, everything can be done on foot or by metro

If you want to get around Rennes, nothing beats walking. The historic center is like a village. It takes just 20 minutes to get from the train station to the tourist office, where you’ll find a number of hotels. Rennes also has two metro lines that can take you from one end of the city to the other in less than 15 minutes. Finally, the day and night bus network and self-service bicycles complete the very comprehensive and safe transport network. Tickets for the bus and metro network cost €1.70 for one hour of unlimited travel across the entire network. There’s no need to buy a ticket – you can pay directly with your bank card at the entrance gates. Other day packages are available, with special rates for groups or families.

Rennes has two metro lines (a and b) that can take you across the whole city in just 15 minutes. In the historic centre, a free electric shuttle bus helps those who have trouble walking to get around.

Bus routes connect the airport to all parts of the metropolitan area, and provide easy access to all neighbourhoods, day and night. Taxi ranks are located just outside the TGV station, where you’ll also find a number of car rental companies (on level 0 towards the West exit). Tickets are valid for the entire bus and metro network, and also give free access to park-and-ride facilities at the city gates.

Last but not least, the Star network offers a self-service bike rental service from €1 per hour (and €2 for 24 hours). There are 50 stations throughout the city where you can rent or return the bikes. Right next to the bus station, the Maison du vélo (15 bis place de la gare) also offers short-term bike rentals.

Need advice?

We’re waiting to welcome you to the Tourist Office

Rennes Tourist Office is located at 1 rue Saint-Malo in the Couvent des Jacobins (convention centre). It’s open 7 days a week, and easily accessible from the Sainte-Anne metro station. The English-speaking travel consultants who work there will give you plenty of ideas for visiting the city, finding accommodation and making the most of your trip to Brittany.

You can also book guided tours and purchase tickets for shows and leisure activities throughout the city and beyond. A shop in the Tourist Office offers a wide selection of local products and environmentally responsible souvenirs.

Tourist Office opening hours:

The Tourist Office, located at 1 rue Saint-Malo, is open 7 days a week at the following times:

• September 1 to June 30 : Monday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• July 1 to August 31 : Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sundays and public holidays : 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on December 25, January 1 and May 1).
• Exceptional closures : December 24 and 31 at 5 p.m.

Questions you may have before coming to Rennes.

What’s the weather like in Rennes?

The Breton climate is mild and temperate. Summer is generally cooler than in other French regions. In winter, sub-zero temperatures are rare. Generally speaking, the weather in Rennes, like everywhere else in Brittany, is quite changeable. It’s not uncommon to have alternating rain and clear skies in the same day, so it’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket just in case. In autumn, the region is occasionally swept by ocean storms that are more spectacular than they are dangerous. Spring is particularly pleasant, with cool mornings and pleasant afternoon temperatures. Across the entire year, average temperatures in Rennes are around 13 degrees. Excluding heatwaves, summer temperatures fluctuate between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, or even higher.

What are the local culinary specialities?

If there’s one local speciality you really must try in Brittany, it’s galettes de blé noir (savoury) and crêpes au froment (sweet). In Rennes, there are almost forty crêperies where you can sample these delights. These are traditional, inexpensive restaurants that serve dishes for the whole family. But Rennes’ signature speciality is the galette saucisse: a tasty pork sausage wrapped in a buckwheat pancake. It’s a kind of hot dog served with Breton sauce, and usually accompanied by mustard and onion confit. A popular dish that can be enjoyed on the street or at the market, and which has another advantage: it only costs between €2.50 and €3. To be enjoyed without moderation. In Rennes, you’ll also find the Brittany’s finest local produce being served the restaurants: seafood and produce from local farms, with a higher proportion of organic produce than the rest of France.

When is the best time to visit Rennes?

Rennes can be enjoyed all year round, with a cultural or music festival taking place nearly every week. The liveliest times are at the end of the year, in December, when the Trans Musicales music festival, Christmas markets, outdoor lighting displays, huge projections onto the town hall and end-of-year shows all take place. During the summer months of June, July and August, you can enjoy major contemporary art exhibitions as part of Exporama, screenings at the Parlement de Bretagne and many other free festivals (Transat en ville and Tombées de la nuit). September is also a busy time for cultural events, with several film and music festivals and heritage days taking place, when you can visit many monuments free of charge. Spring is the ideal time for cycling, walking along the canals and strolling through the flower gardens (Le Thabor, Parc Oberthür, Prairies Saint-Martin, Jardin Saint-Georges).

What languages are spoken in Brittany?

The official language in Brittany and Rennes is French. The Breton language is still very much alive in the region. In the part of Haute-Bretagne where Rennes is located, the traditional language is called Gallo. If you don’t speak French, Breton, you’ll encounter plenty of English speakers due to the large student population and the region’s cultural proximity to Great Britain. Last but not least, at the Tourist Office, our travel consultants can answer your questions in English, German or Spanish.

Where can I safely leave my luggage?

Hotels often offer to keep your luggage safe if you’ve stayed there. Additionally, many shops and businesses are part of the nannybag network, making it easy to reserve somewhere to store your luggage.

Who to call in an emergency

Emergency numbers in Rennes are the same as anywhere else in France:

• 112, the European emergency number, even works without a SIM card.
• Call 18 to contact the fire service.
• Dial 15 to contact Samu (the emergency medical service).
• Call 17 to contact the police and gendarmes.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 Best Things to Do in Brittany, France—From Seaside Castles to Chic Oyster Bars

By Caitlin Gunther

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Don't believe the myth that Brittany , France, is perpetually gray: While the northwestern region of France has its fair share of rainfall, sunshine is also abundant on its Emerald Coast—especially outside of winter months. And with historic towns, jagged coastlines, and white-sand beaches, it’s no wonder the storybook landscape has been a favorite of British vacationers from across the channel since the 19th century: Perhaps they started the rumor to keep the place to themselves.

The sea looms large around Brittany, a peninsula bounded by water on three sides. It is, after all, the birthplace of the marinière , the classic and iconic French striped shirt originally donned by Breton sailors. There’s no shortage of water activities here: from surfing, snorkeling, and kite surfing to boating and paddle-boarding. And on terra firma, year-round, travelers have easy access to tennis, golf, hiking, and cycling. The beauty of Brittany compels you to slow down to really experience it.

The region’s unique cuisine is also an experience unto itself: You’ll find buckwheat crepes or galettes topped with bright, farm-fresh eggs, edges crisped to perfection, and dishes accentuated by umami-packed seaweed; fresh fish and briny oysters plucked from the coastline; and rustic and refined pastries baked with rich Breton butter. Home to Michelin-starred restaurants, family-owned creperies, BYOB oyster markets, and more, Brittany is an ideal destination for those with big appetites for fresh coastal cuisine.

For some relaxation, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from, whether you fancy a cozy, family-owned maison d’hote (which have five rooms or less, by law) or a scene-y seaside resort offering tasting menus and craft cocktail bars. More recently, passionate hoteliers have breathed new life into some of the most picturesque, historic properties to make the uncrowded region a more compelling destination than ever.

Recently, the Brittany Tourism Office shared that tourism has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. According to local business owners, word about this magical region is slowly spreading and each year they’re seeing more international visitors, including many more Americans. Take that as your sign to go now, before the secret is truly out (just be sure to tell your friends about your “terrible” vacation to “rainy” Brittany). Here are the best things to do in Brittany, France, 

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Fresh fish at Oyster Club, a nautical-themed nook in Dinard for oysters, octopus, prawns, and natural wine

The minimalist interior of Oyster Club

Where to eat in Brittany, France

While Brittany's culinary scene is home to its fair share of Michelin-starred restaurants (44 total, as of the 2022 guide edition ), most establishments are casual spots where you’ll find some of the region's most quintessential food experiences. There are countless mom-and-pop créperies to choose from, but at Breizh Cafe (which has multiple locations), you’ll find elegant takes on Brittany’s traditional buckwheat savory crepe, with combinations like smoked salmon, fresh goat cheese, and chive cream; or “white” ham, Comte cheese and churned Maison Bordier butter. At La Ferme Breizh Cafe in Saint-Coulumb, the famed restaurant grows buckwheat or sarasin for its flour and apples for its house cider. According to founder Bertrand Larcher, few creperies use Breton buckwheat. His goal for this project was to promote local agriculture. During the summer months, they welcome travelers to visit the farm and taste their products (like the classic sausage galette) at the source, in the fresh air, steps from the Guesclin beach.

Fans of fruits des mer can do no better than the Oyster Club in Dinard, a nautical-themed nook offering a daily menu of fresh catches from Brittany, like oysters from Cancale, and octopus and prawns from Guilvinec. Co-owned by a viticulture graduate, the wine menu is as thoughtful as the seafood selection, with an emphasis on organic and natural French wines. Last year, the Oyster Club team opened a sister restaurant, Kalypso , on the beach of nearby Lancieux, a haven for kite surfers. While seafood is still the specialty, Kalypso emphasizes more elaborate dishes, like octopus tacos with spicy mayonnaise or mackerel with salsa verde and succulent glasswort.

Finally, it would be impossible to write about Breton cuisine without mentioning the kouign amann, the buttery pastry that’s been likened to a sugary, caramelized croissant. In the heart of the walled city of Saint-Malo, Les Kouign Amann de Saint Malo is your gateway to kouign amann in all of its gorgeous, glistening varieties—traditional (butter and sugar), with fresh apple filling, with Nutella, or topped with apple and homemade caramel. Other regional treats, like far breton and ker-y-pom, are also available.

Cobblestoned streets in the medieval city of Dinan

The fortress-topped tidal island of Mont Saint Michel was the inspiration for the castle in Disney's Tangled .

The best things to do on Brittany's Emerald Coast

Open year-round and seven days a week, the Oyster Market in the port of Cancale disproves the ‘r’ rule—that you should only eat oysters during months with the letter ‘r’—once and for all. As one of the vendors recently told me, they continually shuffle their selection so as to avoid the problematically milky (or laiteuse) reproducing varieties. Choose among the market's eight vendors and watch as they expertly shuck your oysters. (You can also buy them unshucked, to-go, if you prefer). For something to sip, pop by La Quille wine truck and pick up a bottle of crisp Muscadet, then grab a seat just along the beach, with a clear view of tidal island Mont Saint Michel , and polish off a dozen fresh ones, topped with nothing but a simple squeeze of lemon.

In Brittany, you’ll notice that seaweed pops up in unexpected places—flecked into bright yellow butter, as a garnish on a seafood plate, or even baked into pastries. At cooking studio Sauvage , Maud Vatinel offers culinary classes dedicated to seaweed to discover its nutritional benefits plus how to prepare dishes like seaweed tartare and Kombu broths with vegetable gyozas.

Just across the bay from Dinard, the walled city of Saint-Malo merits a day of exploration. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was home to French corsaires—the King’s officially sanctioned pirates. Today, the best loot is in the narrow streets of the historic center, where you’ll find specialty boutiques selling the Roellinger spices , la belle-iloise tinned fish, Saint James marinière shirts, and more. This November, the Route de Rhum , the quadrennial yacht race from Saint-Malo to Guadalupe, will transform the city. For two weeks, millions of visitors will gather to send off the ships and enjoy parades, festivities, and the vendor village erected especially for the big event.

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

To travel back in time, pop over to the medieval city of Dinan to stroll the narrow cobblestone streets, past stone buildings and Tudor-style half-timber houses, and visit the 12th-century Saint-Sauveur basilica or the 14th-century Dinan Castle. Then spend a night in La Maison Pavie , a traditional 15th-century home in the heart of Dinan that was recently reopened as a stylish guest house.

If visiting in warmer months, the Emerald Coast presents no shortage of opportunities to get moving in the fresh air. The region is dotted with tennis courts and golf courses, such as Dinard Golf , a famed golf club in Saint-Briac-sur-Mer founded by English expats in the 19th century, where you can tee off on the green cliffs overlooking the jewel-tone sea. There are endless options for water activities—diving, surfing, paddle boarding, sea kayaking, and more—and the Brittany Tourism site provides a comprehensive guide for navigating by region.

Keep in mind: Brittany's Emerald Coast is just the tip of the iceberg. Brittany is also home to the Pink Granite Coast , the westernmost maritime Finistere , the wild Cornouaille area , and more. But this is a fine, and endlessly colorful point d'entrée for discovering one of France’s best-kept secrets.

Castelbrac Hôtel and Spa in Dinard

Where to stay in Brittany

In the chic seaside town of Dinard, the cliffs are lined with striking Belle Epoque villas. Among them, you’ll find the Castelbrac Hôtel and Spa , a resort that resembles a vast Scottish castle, with sweeping views of Saint-Malo Bay’s sparkling, blue-green water—making plain why this part of Brittany is called the Emerald Coast.

The property, which dates back to 1865 (built, as it happens, by a British family), was fully renovated and reopened under new ownership in 2015. With an eye toward preserving some of the hotel’s storied history, the decor is nautical meets Art Deco with high-end finishes. Each of the 23 light-filled rooms is unique, with modern touches (like bold, marine flora wallpaper) and sleek marble bathrooms. (Panoramic views from the Prestige Room are worth the slightly higher rate.) The onsite Michelin-starred restaurant, Pourquoi Pas, serves creative dishes that showcase regional ingredients, like John Dory in a seaweed broth with beans from nearby Paimpol, with a backdrop of boats seesawing as the tide ebbs and flows. Also not to be missed: the spa by French brand Thémaé, the crystalline pool nestled in the cliff, and a private tour of the bay via the hotel’s 40-foot wooden speed boat, the Fou de Bassan.

If you’re after the honey-slow pace of village life, check in to Le Nessay in nearby Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, which sits on a mound of land jutting into the sea, overlooking sleepy beaches lined with whitewashed changing cabins. Opened in 2018, it's a 19th century red-brick chateau that’s both imposing and playful—as if Wes Anderson designed a Disney Castle. The light-splashed interior decor is homey and inviting. Rooms bring to mind a stylish fishing refuge, with shiplap walls, high ceilings, and mid-century accents. Le Nessay’s restaurant and cocktail bar are destinations in and of themselves, attracting guests from outside the hotel to experience Chef Thomas Estrader’s thoughtful menu (the specialty is orzo, or pates langues d'oiseaux with Froment du Léon butter and langoustine tartare, served in a rich, foamed bisque) and inventive beverages from an ever-changing cocktail menu.

In Saint-Méloir-des-Ondes, a town near the historic Saint-Malo, you’ll find the singular Ferme du Vent , or wind farm , a collection of six tastefully appointed cottage rentals made from wood and stone, all flooded with natural light. Capturing the art of disconnection (there’s no WiFi or television), the Ferme du Vent connects guests with the natural surroundings—the vegetable garden, the nearby quince tree conservatory, and the peaceful sea stretching across the horizon—for a perfectly relaxing taste of coastal Brittany.

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Official tourism website of Lorient South Brittany

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This spring in …

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A precious land

Escape in an exceptional place

Follow the wind and the exceptional tides to share an unforgettable experience with the sea. Admire our seaside resorts’ architectural heritage and our charming fishermen villages. The marked paths of GR34 make the Emerald Coast of Brittany the ideal place for sports, hiking and heritage lovers.

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5 under-the-radar beaches to visit in Brittany

Whether its beautiful nature walks to try or the best culture spots, the Brittany Tourism office are asking visitors to dream and discover, by releasing lists of the best things to do in the region. Here, 5 spellbinding beaches, where calm and beauty are 100% guaranteed.

The Brittany Tourism office describes the region as a ‘slowtourism destination, which is popular as much for its diversity of beaches and scenery, as well as its well-preserved natural parks, wellness facilities, identity, gastronomy, cultural heritage and cultural life.’ Among their several other lists of the best spots to entertain oneself in the region this summer, the association has created a list of the best, under-the-radar beaches in the area, which are anything but tourist traps.

Anse de Rospico

Situated between Pont-Aven and Concarneau, the peninsula of Nevez is home to some absolutely unmissable beaches. Particularly noteworthy is the Anse de Rospico, a local beach with beautiful rocky cliffs surrounding it. The water is crystal clear, the sand white, and at low tide there are pools among the rocks which are perfect for exploring. To get there it is possible to go on the GR® 34 coastal path, the famous ‘Customs Officer’ path which runs over 2000km from Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire.

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Petit Pérello beach in Plœmeur

A cove for true conoisseurs and locals, this is just beneath the Fort du Talud, and situated amongst the many wild beaches which make Plœmeur so charming (the airport Lorient Bretagne Sud is located in the centre of the town). South-facing with white sand and transparent water as far as the eye can see, Petit Pérello is a true paradise.

Traon Erc’h beach in Roscoff

65 metres of beautiful unspoiled beach , with golden sand and turquoise waters. In the morning it’s not uncommon to see people practising yoga, and in the afternoon families come with their children, often on the hunt for crabs that inhabit the waters here. Whether you’re calling it a small beach or a large cove, you can’t deny this beach is a wonderful spot with a lot going for it. Not far away is Roscoff, which is home to the Roch-Hievec, a botanic garden with around 3,000 subtropical plant species.

Corps de Garde beach in Binic

A beautiful way to escape without leaving the Côtes-d’Armor. You can easily find yourself with the beach to yourself here. The GR®34 Customs Officers path, also leads to this soft sanded cove, a private beach on the south-side of the commune of Binic-Étables-sur-Mer. Nestled between two points of land and rocks beneath the seaside area of Les Godelins, the beach is famous for its calm atmosphere and transparent water (beach cabins included).

While you’re there, be sure to stopover in Binic, a little medieval village which became one of the most important French fishing villages. Make sure to visit its historic market, which, from the 16 th century, sold different produce from the land and sea from its docks, as well as other trade and ship arsenal.

Pissot au Val-André beach

Some say that the seaside area of Pléneuf-Val-André, nestled between the bay of Saint-Brieuc and the Emerald Coast, is a real playground for lovers of the seaside. The cove of Pissot, is a hidden gem, sheltered from the winds and accessible by foot (involving only a short walk), where you can admire La Pointe de Pléneuf and the l’îlot du Verdelet. The water is a beautiful emerald colour and the surrounding vegetation is extremely lush. The aforementioned Custom’s Officer path is en route, and if you go along it, you will find some beautiful Breton artwork on show in the little port of Dahouët. Perfect after a day at the beach.

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Visit Vannes

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A thriving town of art and history

Vannes won’t settle for any neat categorisation! Overlooking the Gulf of Morbihan, two-and-a-half hours from Paris, this is a mediaeval town with a quirky sense of humour, a marina with a slightly rebellious streak. Picturesque, cultured and gourmet. Its extraordinary heritage is universally acknowledged, as its lively atmosphere all year round. As for the rest… good luck trying to define it!

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Experience Vannes

This fortified and preserved town harbours a wealth of architectural heritage. Ramparts, gardens in bloom, its almost entirely pedestrianised centre, cobbled streets lined with intriguing granite sculptures and half-timbered houses, no wonder visitors flock here, for its easy-going pace of life and a coffee on Place Henri IV of course! Either side of the summer months is the best time to come.

Artistic M.U.R.murs !

Five centuries later, the streets are still a showcase for eye-catching urban art. Sensible and discreet you say? The Vannes we know gives free expression to public murals, not least the M.U.R. , as well as street art frescoes, from the Palais des Arts to the port’s left bank. BREF is a hive of artistic activity, a community venue with studios, gallery space, a bar, concerts and DJ sets, while the Hangar is poised to open behind the station. There’s always a photo exhibition to go and see at the Kiosque , while the Cohue museum, with its contemporary art collections, always has a surprise in store – don’t miss the luminous paintings by Geneviève Asse, who was born in Vannes.

Feel energised all year round

As the light and colours change with each new season, so our tastes and whims change too. From autumn to spring, Vannes can be savoured through an active, inventive cuisine that packs a flavoursome punch! At its outdoor and indoor markets , from Place des Lices to Place du Poids Public, you can indulge in the best surf ’n’ turf lunches on the go. Chez Marcelle is open year-round for fresh oysters from the gulf, while at Nuages de Gégé you can tuck into street food-style buckwheat or cream-filled choux buns. Equally tempting are the local fashion and home design concept stores, as well as the village feel of Saint-Patern, the town’s oldest and most popular neighbourhood with restaurants, café terraces, nightclubs and shops galore!

Vannes is a mediaeval town with a quirky sense of humour, a marina with a slightly rebellious streak.

Did you know?

The Danielo Rotunda is unique in France!

Attached to Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the round chapel on its northern side, also called the “Rotonde du Saint-sacrement”, is one of the very first examples of the Renaissance style on French soil. Quite simply unique.

Time for a sea change

All year round you’ll find something going on in the town’s bustling port. Its bars and café terraces aside, walking along its quays will already feel like a refreshing change. Cast your gaze out towards the Conleau peninsula, with a natural seawater pool, bathed in a seaside resort atmosphere. Set your sights even further by climbing aboard a ferry boat with your bike, and explore the Séné peninsula or Saint-Armel, along the gulf , to your heart’s content. In no time at all, you’ll disembark amidst a scenic backdrop of open-air cafés and little fisherman’s huts… A peaceful change of scene at a bargain price!

Plan your trip

Hotels, bed and breakfasts, campsites, gites, short-stay rentals, holiday homes, unique and unusual places to stay… Everything you need to make your dreams come true!

Looking for adventure in the great outdoors? Whether you prefer climbing trees, sailing on the water, going to the zoo or visiting a museum… Brittany has got you covered!

Vannes Tourist Office

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Main points of interest

• The Vannes Ramparts walkway and gardens.
• The historic Saint-Patern quarter and church (18th century)
• The port area
• The walled town: the half-timbered houses and mansions, the cathedral of Saint-Pierre and its rich furnishings, ‘La Cohue’ (a medieval hall housing the Museum of Fine Arts)
• The museum of history and archaeology (Château-Gaillard)

How to get there / move there

Getting to vannes.

Eurostar will get you to Paris from London in 2 hours 16 minutes, then, with 11 trains a day, Vannes is 2 hours 30 minutes from Paris by TGV, France’s inter-city high-speed rail service. There are regular connections with France’s major towns and cities.

Vannes is 450 km from Paris (5hrs) on the A11 ‘Océane’ motorway, and 110 km from Nantes and Rennes by dual carriageway. From the ferry ports, it is about 2 hours’ drive from St Malo and 2 hours 30 minutes from Roscoff.

For travellers on a budget, coach services are operated by Flixbus and BlaBlaBus , departing from many towns and cities.

Travelling in and around Vannes

Vannes is a great city to explore on foot, by bus or by bike. From the station to the city centre is a 20 minute walk or a 5 minute bus ride (service operated by  Kiceo .  Vélocéo  self-service electric bikes can be rented by the day.

For the islands of the Gulf of Morbihan, the ferry terminal is 10 minutes by bus from the city centre.

New: With the City Pass Golfe du Morbihan Vannes , you can access the Kiceo bus network and 30 must-see sites, all at an unbeatable price. Choose between a 24H, 48H or 72H option.

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