From wild beaches and rugged sea cliffs to charm-soaked towns and villages, Brittany is one of the most enchanting regions in France. The peninsula is rich in history and dotted with ancient Neolithic sites and centuries-old chateaux. Outdoor adventures are easy to find in Brittany, with world-class hiking, cycling, paddling, surfing and birdwatching across the region.
Things to do in Brittany
The bustling port city of St Malo combines centuries of history with a beautiful setting on the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Walk around the Old Town surrounded by ancient granite walls and swim, sunbathe and enjoy spectacular sunsets from Plage du Sillon. Just south of St Malo is St-Servan, a picturesque fishing port with a rich seafaring heritage.
More than a century older than the Stone Henge, the Carnac Alignments is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Europe. The site is studded with thousands of megalith stones, some of the oldest dated to 3500 BC. Explore the different megalith groups on foot or rent a bicycle.
With round towers and turrets, Château de Josselin is reminiscent of a French fairy tale. Guided tours take you into the lavishly furnished rooms filled with antiques and tapestries. Château de Vitré is another historic gem and one of the most beautiful strongholds in Brittany. Walking across the drawbridge and through the twin-towered gatehouse is a highlight.
You’ll find some of the best hiking trails on Pointe du Raz, a windswept promontory surrounded by 70-metre high cliffs. The Côte de Granit Rose is another popular hiking destination, with trails taking you past blush-coloured granite cliffs.
From wafer-thin crepes to tart apple cider, Brittany is fiercely proud of its culinary heritage. Tantalise your palate with local dishes like “poulet à la Bretonne” chicken cooked with leeks and crème fraiche and “cotriade” fish stew. Patisseries will tempt you with sweet custard flans speckled with raisins.
Getting around Brittany
Brittany is well-connected by a network of local trains and buses. High-speed trains run between Paris and Rennes in 1.5 hours. Ferries connect St Malo with the Channel Islands, Poole and Portsmouth. Ferries also run between Plymouth and Roscoff. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is a four-hour drive from Rennes or 2.5 hours by train.