All About Charming Brittany, France
Brittany, located in northwest France, offers a glimpse into a world both rugged and charming—distinctly different from many other French regions. With more than 2,000 kilometers of breathtaking coastline, historic medieval towns, and a deep Celtic-influenced culture, Brittany is a must-visit for travelers seeking something off the beaten path.
A Spectacular Coastline
- Saint-Malo, Dinard, and Quiberon
The Brittany coast boasts sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs that draw water-sport enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Whether you’re into surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, or simply basking under the sun, these seaside resorts deliver.
- Pink Granite Coast
Renowned for its rosy rock formations, this stretch of shoreline is especially enchanting at sunset. Explore the headland of L’Arcouest or ferry across to the island of Bréhat, and don’t forget to snap some photos of Brittany’s iconic pink-hued stone.
Rich History & Landmarks
- Carnac’s Megalithic Stones
Older than the Pyramids, the stone alignments of Carnac date back to the Neolithic period. With nearly 3,000 standing stones, plus prehistoric burial sites and tumuli, this area offers an incredible peek into ancient human history. - Mont Saint-Michel
Though technically in Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel has deep ties to Brittany and is often visited as part of a day trip to the region. Its medieval fortress and Gothic abbey are an absolute marvel. We even offer a Mont St. Michel Day Trip from Paris that stops in the charming Breton towns of Dinan and Saint-Malo. - Castles & Parish Closes
The region is dotted with fortified châteaux, such as Fort La Latte perched on a cliff above the sea, the grand Josselin Château with its whimsical doll museum, and the Renaissance-era Château de Kerjean. The “Parish Closes” of Saint-Thégonnec, Guimiliau, and Lampaul-Guimiliau offer a unique blend of Celtic and Catholic heritage, showcasing elaborate granite churches and crosses often adorned with mythical carvings.
Immersive Local Culture
- Breton Language & Festivities
Breton, a Celtic language closely related to Welsh and Cornish, is still used and celebrated in many communities. Festivals like the Festival Interceltique de Lorient draw crowds with lively Celtic music, dancing, and traditional dress. - Seafood & Savory Galettes
Brittany is famous for its fresh oysters—Cancale in particular is the region’s “oyster capital.” Mussels, scallops, and other local seafood are also abundant. And no visit is complete without sampling a classic buckwheat galette, a savory crêpe filled with cheese, ham, eggs, or other toppings.
- Rennes: Brittany’s Capital
Home to over 200,000 residents and a large student population, Rennes offers a mix of medieval charm and vibrant modern life. Wander through cobblestone streets near the historic cathedral, or enjoy one of France’s biggest Saturday markets at the Place des Lices. Don’t miss the renowned local specialties, from Coucou de Rennes chickens to salted butter caramel confections.
Fascinating Towns & Cities
- Saint-Malo: History by the Sea
Surrounded by imposing walls, Saint-Malo stands as a maritime gateway for ferries coming from England’s southern ports. Once a base for privateers (pirates under royal license), Saint-Malo’s past is woven into its charming cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. Today, it’s also known for its seafood restaurants featuring the famed oysters from nearby Cancale. The city was heavily bombarded in WWII but has been meticulously restored. It’s now a favorite getaway for Parisians, just a high-speed TGV ride away. - Quimper & Pont-Aven
Quimper, located where the Odet and Steir rivers meet, is famous for its centuries-old ceramics and the impressive Gothic Cathedral of Saint Corentin. Nearby Pont-Aven was home to the late 19th-century art colony led by Paul Gauguin—its picturesque riverbanks and white houses continue to inspire artists and visitors alike. - Belle Île & Vannes
Just off Brittany’s southern coast lies Belle Île (“Beautiful Island”), known for dramatic cliffs and unspoiled natural landscapes. From the medieval city of Vannes, visitors can explore the Gulf of Morbihan, a tranquil inland sea dotted with scenic islands.
Easy Access
- By Car
Drive from Paris via Le Mans to reach Rennes, then onward to Brest, Vannes, or Quimper. Roads are well-maintained, and scenic detours abound. - By Train
High-speed TGV service connects Paris’s Gare Montparnasse to Rennes in about two hours. Select trains also depart from Charles de Gaulle airport. - By Air
Regional airports in Rennes, Quimper, Brest, Lorient, and Saint-Brieuc receive flights from major European cities. Direct flights from London also land in Rennes, Brest, and Dinard. - By Ferry
Brittany Ferries operates routes from the UK (Portsmouth, Poole, and Plymouth) to ports such as Saint-Malo and Roscoff, making a breezy sea voyage an enticing option.
Day Trips from Paris
For a chance to explore Brittany’s highlights in one day, consider our Mont St. Michel Day Trip from Paris, which includes stops in Dinan and Saint-Malo. You can also opt for an overnight trip to spend more time soaking up the region’s enchanting landscapes and culture.
Quick Facts
- Tides
Brittany has the fastest tides in Europe. Be mindful of changing tide schedules, as the sea can rise startlingly fast! - Spelling
Brittany is “Bretagne” in French, and Great Britain is “Grande Bretagne.” The Celtic link is strong.
- Rennes
The bustling capital city hosts one of France’s largest Saturday markets, drawing both local farmers and curious visitors.
Brittany: Where Heritage Meets the Sea
From postcard-perfect coastal villages to ancient megaliths and vibrant local traditions, Brittany brims with charm and character. Whether you’re exploring Saint-Malo’s pirate past, sampling fresh oysters in Cancale, or admiring Quimper’s Gothic cathedral, you’ll discover a region proud of its Celtic roots and seafaring spirit—one that leaves an indelible mark on all who visit.
More Information About Brittany, France
- Our Travelogue: The Brittany Coast by Car
- The Brittany Tourist Office: Official Website