Fourth stop on our Régiontrip: Brittany!
I have to be honest with you, having grown up between Brittany and Mayenne, I’m not at all impartial about this region! I’ll admit it! I hope this article will make you love Brittany as much as I do.
Its natural wonders
Brittany is a land of extraordinary landscapes. Its pink granite coastline in the Côtes-d’Armor region springs to mind. This sumptuous coastline can also be seen at Cap d’Erquy, which is even better preserved because it can only be reached on foot.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking view, Brittany has something for everyone. The Pointe du Raz will give you the impression of being at the end of the world. It’s located at the very end of Finistère on Cap Sizun. From here, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the immensity of the ocean and the jagged cliffs of the Breton coast. You must also visit the Pointe du Grouin (an unusual name, but don’t hold it against it – you won’t be disappointed!). Cap Fréhel offers a breathtaking view of the islands of Jersey, Bréhal and Contentin. The Pointe de Pen-al-Lann offers a view of the Morbihan coastline.
Brittany also boasts a number of islands, each more beautiful than the last. If you have the time and opportunity, I really recommend you visit them. The island of Bréhat in spring is absolutely sublime. Saint Cado will be your favorite at sunset, I can promise you that. Belle ile en Mer also has a lot to offer, including numerous viewpoints. I recommend Pointe des Poulains. It also has a very pretty marina. But my all-time favorite, the one I really want to share with you, is the Glénan Archipelago. It’s like being in Polynesia. The water is just as turquoise! The archipelago is just an hour’s boat ride from the coast, and there are various departures from different towns.
Its magic
Brittany is particularly famous for its mythical legends. If you’re a fan of these stories, then you’ve come to the right place! Lose yourself in the forest of Brocéliande for the ultimate experience. You’ll discover all the legends about Merlin and King Arthur. A whole itinerary has been organized to show you the Church of the Grail and the Valley of No Return, as well as Merlin’s tomb and many other secrets that I’ll leave you to discover for yourself.
In your quest for legend, you should also stop off at the Monts d’Arrée: this place is said to contain the gates to the beyond, Yeun Ellez in Breton. And the Cairn de Barnenez: an edifice of over 3,000 stones located on the Kernéléhen peninsula. An excellent vantage point overlooking the Térénez cove and Morlaix Bay.
Finally, to complete your quest, you’ll need to take the time to discover the Carnac Menhirs. There are some 3,000 of them in the south of Morbihan. You’ll also find this strange phenomenon on the Crozon peninsula, with the Lagatjar alignment.
Legendary gastronomy
Who hasn’t tasted real, delicious salted butter caramel on a warm pancake? If you’re about to answer “me”, I can assure you that it’s the first thing you should do after reading this article! And while you’re at it, between you and me, I’d also advise you to try everything else. Far Breton, Kouign-amann orAndouille de Guémené or de Vire. I assure you, it’ll be a real revelation. And don’t forget, drink some cider in the middle of it all.
Outstanding architecture
Brittany boasts a large number of wonderfully preserved towns and villages. For the sake of this article’s length, I’ll only mention a few of them, but I really advise you to go and discover them all. Saint-Malo remains a must-see. Strolling along its ramparts and cobbled streets is a real pleasure. At low tide, you can visit the Île du grand Bé and the Île du petit Bé. Dinan should also be on your list. It’s a fortified town with well-preserved half-timbered houses. And in the same spirit, we recommend Locronan. Oyster lovers will love Cancale, with its huge oyster farm, or Concarneau, with its huge fishing port. Morlaix and Quimper are also well worth a visit, not least for their distinctive houses. Vannes and Rennes also have a lot to offer, and I hope you’ll take the time to discover them.
For those looking to get away from the tourist hustle and bustle, we recommend Rochefort en terre. More discreet but very picturesque.
Finally, I’d like to mention Dinard and Paimpol. Two popular seaside resorts with a rich history.
As our tour of Brittany comes to an end, I hope you’ve enjoyed reading the article as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it. Brittany still holds many secrets, and I hope you’ll go and discover them.
Don’t forget to update your booklet and add all the places you think are must-sees.
Exceptional discoveries often come from the lesser-known places.