Brittany

France
Saint-Malo which includes rugged coastline, a beach and general coastal views
One of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited areas, fortified Middle Age citadels and state-of-the-art resort hotels are all in this region of northern France.

With its location immediately across the English Channel from England, Brittany has long had close ties to the U.K. Many of the legends of King Arthur took place in this heavily forested and mysterious setting. Now that most of the forests have been chopped down, British tourists visit Brittany to relax in resort towns or see medieval citadels. Sit on the beach, explore ancient towns and learn about Brittany’s Celtic heritage.

Jutting out from France’s Atlantic coast, Brittany has both north and south shores lined with beaches and islands. Dinard on the north coast has some of the nicest beaches and features a classic resort town built in the 19th century for aristocratic British tourists. Drive along the large section of north coast known as the Côte de Granit-Rose (Rose-Granite Coast), which is lined with pink rocks. Swim on the protected beach of Ploumanac’h.

Take a ferry to one of the islands just off the Brittany coast, like the Île de Bréhat. About 400 people inhabit this interconnected pair of car-free islands off the north coast. Belle-Île off the southern coast is Brittany’s largest island and features 60 beaches and a wide selection of resort hotels. When you arrive near the port city of Le Palais, notice the star-shaped Citadelle Vauban.

Tour the mainland cities to see relics from the Europe of the Middle Ages and earlier. Walk along the walls of St-Malo, a fortified medieval city overlooking the north coast. Josselin is one of Brittany’s prettiest inland cities, with a three-towered château along a canal. Tour the castle from April to October. Visit Carnac on Brittany’s south coast to see the assortment of over 10,000 ancient rock formations.

Reach Brittany by ferry from the U.K. or by train, bus or plane from Paris. Join British daytrippers on the beach in July and August when the weather is warmest.

Popular cities in Brittany

Rennes Cathedral which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Rennes
Known for Business, Universities and Festivals
Markets, museums, historical buildings and an interactive science center draw travelers to the center of this city in the serene Brittany countryside.

Reasons to visit

  • Musee de Bretagne
  • Rennes Cathedral
  • Place des Lices
Petit Be which includes rugged coastline, general coastal views and sailing
Saint-Malo
Known for Beaches, Ferries and boats and Walking
Go on a boat trip to the Channel Islands from this port, after learning about pirates and trying oysters.

Reasons to visit

  • St. Malo Beach
  • St. Malo Citadel
  • St. Vincent Cathedral
Crozon
Crozon
Known for Swimming, Sea and Nature

Reasons to visit

  • Cap de la Chevre
  • Pointe de Dinan
  • Plage de la Palue
Vannes showing a city, a river or creek and heritage architecture
Vannes
Known for Historical, Ports and Family-friendly
This traditional 15th-century town appears almost completely untouched by time, yet it holds excitement for visitors of all ages.

Reasons to visit

  • Le Jardin des Remparts
Brest
Brest
Known for Business, Museums and Art
This coastal city celebrates its rich maritime past with a range of fascinating modern exhibits and historical monuments.