Brittany Region France Map

Introduction

Brittany, located in the northwest of France, is known for its rugged coastline, charming towns, and rich history. From the medieval city of Rennes to the picturesque fishing village of Saint-Malo, Brittany offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to this beautiful region.

Top Attractions

Mont Saint-Michel

The iconic Mont Saint-Michel is a must-visit attraction in Brittany. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning abbey perched on a rocky island, surrounded by the sea. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of this architectural marvel.

Château de Fougères

This medieval castle is one of the largest fortresses in Europe and is located in the town of Fougères. Explore the ramparts and towers and learn about the castle’s fascinating history.

Quimper

Quimper is a charming town known for its picturesque old town, stunning gothic cathedral, and traditional Breton pottery. Stroll through the charming streets and browse the local markets for unique souvenirs.

Hidden Gems

Île de Bréhat

This small island off the coast of Brittany is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. The island is car-free and is known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and picturesque lighthouses. Take a boat trip to explore the island and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Les Roches du Diable

Les Roches du Diable (The Devil’s Rocks) is a stunning natural wonder located in the Brocéliande Forest. The rocks are said to be the site of many legends and are surrounded by beautiful woodland. Take a hike through the forest to reach this hidden gem.

Food Scene

Brittany is known for its delicious seafood, traditional crepes, and cider. Some must-try dishes include moules frites (mussels and fries), galettes (savoury crepes), and kouign-amann (a buttery Breton pastry). Head to a local market to sample the region’s fresh produce and artisanal products.

Budget-Friendly Tips

To save money while traveling in Brittany, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to November) when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. Opt for local accommodation options like guesthouses or camping sites instead of hotels. Take advantage of free activities like hiking and visiting public parks and gardens.

Outdoor Adventures

Brittany offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to water sports like surfing and kayaking. Head to the rugged coastline for stunning views and challenging hikes, or explore the inland forests for peaceful walks and wildlife spotting.

Historical Landmarks

Brittany is steeped in history, from the medieval castles and fortresses to the ancient standing stones and dolmens. Visit the Carnac Stones, a collection of prehistoric stones that date back to 4500 BC, or explore the walled city of Saint-Malo, which has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

Family-Friendly Activities

Brittany is a great destination for families, with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions for all ages. Take the kids to the Océanopolis aquarium in Brest to see marine life up close, or explore the Paimpont Forest, which is said to be the setting for the legend of King Arthur.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider visiting the village of Locronan, which is known for its beautiful cobblestone streets and traditional Breton architecture. Or head to the town of Concarneau to explore the fortified old town and visit the fishing museum.

Natural Wonders

Brittany is home to many natural wonders, from the rugged coastline to the inland forests. Visit the Pink Granite Coast to see stunning rock formations and clear blue waters, or explore the Gulf of Morbihan to see a diverse range of marine life.

Vibrant Nightlife

Brittany has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Head to the city of Rennes for a night out, or explore the smaller towns for a more laid-back experience.

Local Markets

Brittany is known for its vibrant markets, which offer a range of fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique souvenirs. Visit the market in the town of Saint-Pol-de-Léon to sample the local seafood, or head to the market in Lorient for handmade crafts and textiles.

Beaches and Mountains

Brittany offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged coastline to the inland mountains. Visit the beaches of Carnac or Dinard for a day of sunbathing and swimming, or head to the Monts d’Arrée for stunning mountain views and challenging hikes.

Cultural Immersion

To immerse yourself in Breton culture, consider attending one of the region’s many festivals and events. The Festival Interceltique in Lorient celebrates Celtic culture with music, dance, and traditional food, while the Fest Noz is a traditional Breton dance festival that takes place throughout the region.

Art and Music Scene

Brittany has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries and music venues to explore. Visit the Musée de Pont-Aven to see works by the famous Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin, or attend a traditional Breton music concert in a local pub.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the charming towns and cities of Brittany. Take a tour of the old town of Saint-Malo to learn about its rich history, or explore the village of Locronan with a local guide.

Architectural Marvels

Brittany is home to many stunning architectural marvels, from the medieval castles to the gothic cathedrals. Visit the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre in Vannes to see its stunning stained glass windows, or explore the Château de Josselin, which has been owned by the same family for over 1,000 years.

Historical Sites

Brittany has a rich history, with many sites dating back to the medieval era. Visit the Abbaye de Beauport, a beautiful abbey located on the coast, or explore the Château de Combourg, which was once home to the famous writer Chateaubriand.

Biking Routes

Brittany offers many scenic biking routes, from the coastal roads to the inland forests. Follow the Vélodyssée, a 1,200-kilometer bike route that passes through Brittany and along the Atlantic coast, or take a leisurely ride along the Canal de Nantes à Brest.

Wellness Retreats

Brittany is a great destination for wellness retreats, with many spas and yoga studios to choose from. Visit the spa town of Carnac for a relaxing massage or take a yoga class on the beach in Saint-Malo.

Adventure Sports

Brittany offers many adventure sports, from surfing and kayaking to rock climbing and caving. Try your hand at kite surfing in the Gulf of Morbihan or go rock climbing in the Monts d’Arrée.

In conclusion, Brittany is a beautiful region with something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests in this charming corner of France.