Brittany

An independent Duchy for 1000 years, Brittany’s rich culture and captivating destination. In the 5th heritage make this north western corner of France a uniquely century, Celts from Cornwall, Wales and Ireland made this land their own, bringing customs, traditions and folklore that continue to have an influence in local life and many people still speak the Breton language.

Long before the Celts, dating from 1000’s of years BC, mysterious standing stones are scattered throughout the Brittany countryside, with an extraordinary plain of 1029 megaliths near Carnac. The legend of King Arthur also has strong Brittany connections, with Avalon said to have been just off the coast near Perros Guirec and the Holy Grail believed to have been hidden in the Forêt d’Huelgoat.

1000 kilometres of beautiful coastline seems to enclose Brittany, switching between pink granite crags, rocky coves, fine sandy beaches and wooded bays. Lighthouses stand watch where Atlantic waves pound the cliffs and charming fishing villages are just the place to enjoy ‘catch of the day’ fish and seafood.

Gorse heaths, fertile pastures and dense forests roll away inland, dotted with slate-roofed villages and elegant manor houses.

Highlights

• The Islands – visit Brittany’s unspoilt islands, including Belle Île, the nine Îles de Glenan, Île de Batz, Île d’Arz and Île aux Moines.
• Dinan – within the ancient ramparts of the medieval city, wander the cobbled streets to see half timbered houses, the imposing Basillique Saint Sauveur and fine views above the Rance River valley.
• Carnac – be amazed by the many and varied Neolithic megaliths, from the rows upon rows of the Alignements de Kerlescan to the 30 metre long Table des Marchands dolmen and the 20 metre high Grand Menhir Base.
• Concarneau – explore the tiny walled ‘island’ of Ville Close, packed with interesting shops selling Breton souvenirs, galleries of Celtic art and tempting little restaurants.
• Food and drink – indulge in Brittany’s succulent shellfish including Coquilles Saint Jacques, Cancale Oysters and moules frites, enjoy the delicious savoury galettes and sweetly sinful crêpes, accompanied by the refreshing Breton ciders.

Dinan, Brittany

Your nearest airports - Brest, Dinard, Rennes, Nantes.
Your nearest ferry ports - St Malo, Roscoff.