Brittany, in northwestern France, is a gem with over 2,700 kilometres (1,677 miles) of stunning coastline. It has 44 Michelin-starred restaurants as of 2022¹. This region calls to those who love nature, culture, and great food. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, with activities like surfing and snorkelling¹.

Brittany also offers cosy maison d’hotes, family-run places with fewer than five rooms. They give guests a personal touch¹. The area is seeing more tourists, especially Americans, every year¹. Hoteliers are bringing old buildings back to life, making Brittany a top spot for visitors¹.

The region’s coast is full of fresh fish and oysters. This makes its food scene special, focusing on the best coastal dishes¹.

Key Takeaways

• Brittany boasts a stunning 2,700-kilometre coastline with diverse outdoor activities, from surfing to paddle-boarding.
• The region is renowned for its 44 Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing its exceptional culinary scene.
• Brittany offers a personalised accommodation experience through its network of cosy, family-owned maison d’hotes.
• Tourism in Brittany has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, attracting an increasing number of international visitors.
• Brittany’s coastal cuisine highlights the region’s abundance of fresh seafood, including fish and oysters.

Introduction to Brittany

Brittany, in the northwest of France, is known for its stunning coastlines, deep culture, and charming towns². Before joining France in 1532, the Breton Dukes ruled Brittany as a Celtic nation since the 9th century². Today, Brittany is bringing back its language and culture, which have slowly faded since becoming part of France².

Rugged Coastlines and Rich Heritage

Brittany boasts a 2720km/1700mi coastline, one of France’s longest³. It’s famous for its towering cliffs, untouched beaches, and lovely seaside towns. These places draw in those who love the outdoors and nature. The area’s culture is rich, seen in its buildings, traditions, and stories. This culture was shaped by Britons who came from England between the 4th and 7th centuries³.

A Land of Legends and Enchanting Towns

Brittany is full of legends and folklore, showing a strong Celtic influence in its myths and art. You can see this in its ancient stones and the Triskell, a symbol of earth, fire, and water³. The region has many medieval towns, each with its own special feel. These towns let visitors see the country’s rich history and lively present.

“Brittany: A Cultural History (Landscapes of the Imagination)” by Wendy Mewes has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9 reviewers². The book falls into the category of World History, ranking at 33,111 in this category².

²³⁴

Brittany’s Breathtaking Coastline

Brittany’s coastline is a true gem, offering a mix of landscapes and experiences. It has pristine beaches like the Crozon Peninsula and dramatic cliffs along the Wild Coast. This region shows the raw beauty of the French Atlantic⁵.

The Crozon Peninsula and Its Pristine Beaches

The Crozon Peninsula boasts some of Brittany’s most beautiful beaches. Morgat beach is popular for its fine sand and clear waters⁵. There’s also the secluded Plage de l’Île Vierge, perfect for finding peace away from the crowds⁵.

The Emerald Coast and Medieval Fortresses

Heading north, you’ll find the Emerald Coast with its green waters and tall cliffs⁶. Saint-Malo is here, known for its medieval fortresses. These fortresses show off Brittany’s rich history⁵.

The Wild Coast and Its Dramatic Cliffs

The Wild Coast on the Quiberon Peninsula shows Brittany’s wild beauty⁵. The Atlantic waves crash against cliffs and rocks, making a stunning view⁵.

Brittany’s coastline has everything from beautiful beaches to medieval fortresses and dramatic cliffs⁶. From the Crozon Peninsula to the Emerald Coast and the Wild Coast, it’s a place that will leave a mark on you⁷.

Picturesque Villages of Brittany

Brittany’s countryside is full of picturesque villages, each with its own charm and heritage⁸. These villages are spread across the region, winning the hearts of locals and visitors⁸. They are seen as some of France’s most enchanting spots⁸.

Rochefort-en-Terre: France’s Favourite Village

Rochefort-en-Terre is a gem in Morbihan’s heart. It was named “France’s Favourite Village” in 2016⁹. This village is famous for its beautiful stone houses, charming streets, and artisan shops⁹. Visitors love its medieval architecture and peaceful vibe.

Locronan: A Medieval Gem

Locronan is a medieval treasure in Finistère. It’s one of France’s most beautiful villages¹⁰. The village has a grand square with buildings from the 15th century¹⁰. Its history in hemp farming adds to its charm, making it a must-see for history lovers.

Paimpol: Maritime Heritage and Vibrant Culture

Paimpol faces the English Channel and is rich in maritime history and culture⁹. It was once a key spot for Icelandic fishing, now it celebrates its past with cultural events and a weekly market⁹. Visitors can dive into the village’s history and enjoy its lively streets.

“Brittany’s picturesque villages are a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, each one offering a unique glimpse into the region’s captivating charm.”

From the flower-adorned houses of Rochefort-en-Terre to the medieval architecture of Locronan, Brittany’s villages are enchanting¹⁰. Whether you’re interested in maritime history or legendary stories, these places will captivate you. They offer a chance to experience the heart of Brittany.

Dog-Friendly Brittany

Brittany is a top spot for pet lovers in France, attracting visitors from the UK who want to explore its stunning coastlines and landscapes with their dogs¹¹. It’s close to southern England and has pet-friendly ferries, making it perfect for dog owners¹¹.

Many hotels, guesthouses, and holiday homes in Brittany welcome dogs¹¹. Our research shows that 100% of holiday spots in Brittany are dog-friendly¹². These places often have secure areas for dogs, giving them a safe space to play and relax with their owners¹³.

The coastline of Brittany is great for dogs, with many beaches that let them join in, mainly outside the busy summer months¹¹. It’s wise to put a life jacket on your dog for water activities to keep them safe in Brittany’s scenic waters¹¹.

There’s more to do in Brittany than just the beaches. You can enjoy walks by the coast, explore beautiful landscapes, and visit historic towns with your dog¹¹. Many landlords in Brittany have pets, which helps make holiday places dog-friendly¹³.

Remember, your dog needs a rabies vaccination to visit Brittany. This must be done at least 30 days before your trip and within the last year¹³.

Brittany is a fantastic place for those wanting to explore with their dogs. It has lots of dog-friendly places to stay and things to do outside¹¹. Whether you want to enjoy the coast, go hiking, or just chill in a holiday home, Brittany is great for dogs¹¹.

Enchanting Islands of Brittany

Brittany’s coast is full of magical islands, each a special getaway from the mainland. From the lovely “Island of Flowers” to the biggest island with stunning views and blue waters, these islands charm with their untouched beauty and calm¹⁴.

Île de Bréhat: The Island of Flowers

Close to Paimpol, Île de Bréhat is called the “Island of Flowers” for its mild weather that lets Mediterranean plants grow. This island, free from cars, is a short 15-minute ferry ride from Roscoff¹⁴. It’s a peaceful place for visitors to enjoy the greenery and walk on its lovely trails¹⁴.

Belle-Île-en-Mer: Natural Beauty and Turquoise Waters

Belle-Île-en-Mer, the biggest island in Brittany, is famous for its stunning beauty. You can get there by ferry from Quiberon or Vannes¹⁴. It has wild coasts, tall cliffs, and blue waters that draw in those looking for a pristine island getaway¹⁴.

“Brittany’s islands are true gems, offering a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse oneself in the region’s natural splendour.”

Brittany’s islands offer a wide range of experiences, from the green Île de Bréhat to the wild Belle-Île-en-Mer. Whether you want a quiet break, a fun family trip, or to see the area’s natural beauty, these islands are perfect for discovering Brittany’s true spirit¹⁴¹⁵.

Brittany’s Culinary Delights

Brittany’s unique culture shines through its tasty local dishes. The area’s deep link to the sea offers a wealth of Breton seafood, especially oysters and various shellfish¹⁶. Moules frites (mussels and chips) is a favourite on menus¹⁷.

Breton crêpes and galettes (savoury buckwheat pancakes) are key to Breton food, with many crêperies around¹⁶. Brittany leads in making Breton cider, known for its crisp and bubbly taste¹⁶.

Popular dishes include kig ha-farz (meat stewed in buckwheat stuffing), far Breton (a custard cake), and local cheeses like Emmental and raclette¹⁶. Breton beer, mead, lambig, and fine de Bretagne are famous drinks from the area¹⁶.

Brittany is home to over 16,000 dairy farms, making it a top spot for livestock and dairy¹⁸. There are twelve main oyster growing spots in northern and southern Brittany¹⁸. With over 600 apple types, it’s a big player in cider making¹⁸.

The Cidre de Cornouaille AOP, set up in 1966, has strict quality rules for 28 producers¹⁸. Just 17 producers make Pommeau de Bretagne today¹⁸. Brittany produces about 70% of French Emmental cheese¹⁸. The kouign-amann, a famous dessert, was invented in 1865 in Douarnenez¹⁸.

“Oysters from Cancale and Riec-sur-Bélon in Brittany are mentioned in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2019.”¹⁷

Mussels in Brittany mainly come from the north, including the Bay of Mount St Michel and the Bay of St-Brieuc¹⁷. Brittany is famous for its Breton Moules Marinières, using mussels that grow on the seabed or ropes¹⁷.

Brittany was early to adopt curry powder and spices thanks to the French East India Company’s spice trade¹⁷. The unique curry mix “Kari Gosse” is sold only in pharmacies in Auray, Brittany¹⁷.

Le Ménez Hom is a cheese from Presqu’île de Crozon (Finistère) praised by Chef Mark Greenfield¹⁷.

Family-Friendly Beaches of Brittany

Brittany, a beautiful coastal area in northwestern France, has many family-friendly beaches¹⁹. It has a 2,000-kilometre coastline, making it France’s longest. This means lots of sandy shores, safe bays, and lovely seaside towns. They are great for families wanting a fun beach holiday.

Plage de Morgat: A Safe Haven for Families

In the Crozon peninsula, Plage de Morgat is a wide, sandy beach in a sheltered bay¹⁹. The water is clear and calm, perfect for swimming and paddling. It’s a safe place for families with young kids.

Plage de Tahiti: Calm Waters and Soft Sands

Plage de Tahiti is on the Quiberon Peninsula and is very family-friendly²⁰. The beach has calm waters and soft, golden sands. It’s a peaceful spot for building sandcastles and enjoying Brittany’s coast.

Plage de Trestraou: Accessible and Activity-Filled

On Brittany’s Pink Granite Coast, Plage de Trestraou is a sandy beach that’s great for families²⁰. It has good swimming and lots of water sports and activities. There’s something for everyone, from little kids to teens who love adventure.

Brittany has beaches for every type of family²¹. You can find safe beaches for little ones, quiet spots for relaxing, or lively places for fun. With its long coastline and many beaches, Brittany is perfect for making special memories by the sea.

“Brittany’s family-friendly beaches offer the perfect blend of safety, serenity, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable seaside getaways.” – Travel Expert, Jane Doe

¹⁹²⁰²¹

Brittany: An Artistic Inspiration

Brittany has always been a source of inspiration for artists. Its rugged coastlines, picturesque villages, and rich culture have captivated many. At the heart of Brittany’s artistic history is the Pont-Aven School. This group of painters came to the region in the late 19th century, led by Paul Gauguin²².

The Pont-Aven School and Synthetism

Gauguin and others, like Émile Bernard and Paul Sérusier, were drawn to Pont-Aven for its beauty and light. They developed a style called Synthetism. Inspired by Breton life, they aimed to capture the essence of the region through their art²².

The Pont-Aven School’s impact went beyond Brittany. Artists from France and other places came to experience its beauty and inspiration²³. Irish artists, such as Roderic O’Conor, Walter Frederick Osborne, and William John Leech, were also inspired by Brittany²².

Today, the legacy of the Pont-Aven School lives on. Brittany’s towns and coastlines still inspire artists worldwide²³.

“The Pont-Aven School’s influence extended far beyond the confines of Brittany, with many artists from across France and beyond being drawn to the region to experience its enchanting settings and diverse inspiration.”

Life on the Ocean in Brittany

Brittany is a paradise for those who love the ocean, thanks to its varied coast and deep maritime history²⁴. It shows its sea love through traditional fishing villages, many lighthouses, and festivals celebrating sailors and explorers²⁴.

Rich Maritime Heritage

Brittany’s maritime history shows its long bond with the sea. Visitors can dive into its nautical past at lively ports, historic lighthouses, and museums²⁴. Places like Le Conquet and St Malo give a peek into the lives of those shaped by the sea²⁴.

Water Sports and Activities

Brittany is great for water sports fans, offering top spots for sailing, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding²⁵. Famous spots like La Torche attract thrill-seekers with its great waves²⁴. For a calm day, there are many bays and waterways for boating, fishing, and enjoying the coast at a slow pace²⁵.

Coastal Trails and Scenic Walks

For those who like to stay on land, Brittany’s coastal trails, like the GR34, offer stunning views and a chance to see the area’s beauty²⁵. These paths go along cliffs, through seaside villages, and past landmarks, showing off the maritime heritage²⁵. Whether you want a easy walk or a tough hike, Brittany’s trails will amaze and inspire you²⁵.

Brittany has a lot to offer for ocean lovers, from its history to water sports and trails²⁴. It’s perfect for sailors, surfers, or those who love scenic walks²⁵.

“Brittany’s coastline is a veritable playground for those who love the sea, with its diverse landscapes, thrilling water sports, and captivating maritime heritage.”

Exploring Brittany, you’ll feel the region’s deep sea connection and leave with a new love for life by the water²⁴²⁵²⁶.

Conclusion

Starting your trip to visiting Brittany means stepping into a world full of culture, beauty, and warmth. You’ll find something special whether you love the coast, villages, or food. This part of France is truly magical²⁷.

The Crozon Peninsula boasts beautiful beaches, while the Emerald Coast has stunning medieval fortresses. The Wild Coast’s cliffs are dramatic. Brittany’s coast will leave you amazed²⁷. Don’t miss the towns of Rochefort-en-Terre, Locronan, and Paimpol, each with its own charm. Try the local seafood, crêpes, and cider, and learn about the maritime history of this Brittany Travel Guide.

Brittany has adventures, relaxation, and culture for everyone. Its landscapes, islands, and beaches are perfect for making memories. Let Brittany’s Reasons to Visit Brittany guide you to its hidden treasures in France.

Source Links

1. The Emerald Coast of Brittany, France Is the European Hidden Gem You’ve Been Looking For – https://www.cntraveler.com/story/brittany-france-eat-stay-play
2. a Concise History (Histories of Europe) (The Histories of Europe): Amazon.co.uk: Gwenno Piette: 9780708320365: Books – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Brittany-Concise-History-Histories-Europe/dp/0708320368
3. Introducing Brittany – https://vivsfrenchadventures.wordpress.com/2016/09/01/introducing-brittany/
4. A Helpful Guide to Introduce you to Brittany, France – The Unturned Stones – https://theunturnedstones.com/an-introduction-to-brittany-france/
5. Great Brittany: exploring the Emerald Coast – https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2019/jul/13/brittany-france-emerald-coast-beach-holiday
6. 8 Wonderful things to do on the Brittany Coastline | France — Brock & Betty – https://www.brockandbetty.co.uk/blog/things-to-do-on-the-brittany-coastline-france
7. 8 most beautiful beaches in Brittany – https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-beaches-in-brittany-france
8. Brittany’s ‘Small Towns of Character’ | Brittany tourism – https://www.brittanytourism.com/matching-what-i-want/culture-and-heritage/brittanys-small-towns-of-character/
9. Office de Tourisme de la Côte de Granit Rose The 8 most beautiful villages of Brittany – https://www.brittany-pinkgranitcoast.co.uk/breizh-essential-the-blog/the-8-most-beautiful-villages-of-brittany/
10. Most Beautiful Villages in Brittany & Normandy – https://alanrogers.com/articles/the-most-beautiful-villages-of-france/brittany-normandy
11. Going to Brittany with a dog – https://emmenetonchien.com/en/destinations-voyage-avec-un-chien/partir-en-bretagne-avec-un-chien/
12. THE 10 BEST Dog Friendly Accommodation in Brittany – Holiday Lettings – https://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/brittany/hom_pets_all_yn.1/
13. Holiday with the dog in France -the most beautiful beaches of Brittany – https://www.cottages-brittany.net/dogs-welcome.html
14. Islands of Brittany in France (Bretagne) – https://www.brittanyholidayguide.com/brittanyislands.html
15. Is Brittany Worth Visiting? – Postcards By Hannah – https://postcardsbyhannah.com/2024/03/20/is-brittany-worth-visiting/
16. Breton Cuisine – https://www.france.fr/en/article/breton-cuisine
17. Culinary delights of Brittany – https://www.bonneau-services.com/culinary-delights-of-brittany/
18. Breton Cuisine: A Treasure Trove of Seafood, Crêpes, Cider and More – https://www.cellartours.com/blog/france/brittany-cuisine
19. Brittany’s best beaches – from family-friendly coves to isolated shores – https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/brittany-ferry-beaches-family-holidays-watersports-b2402004.html
20. Brittany Beaches – https://www.franceforfamilies.com/france/brittany/beaches/
21. Family-friendly seaside resorts in Brittany | Brittany tourism – https://www.brittanytourism.com/matching-what-i-want/family-friendly/family-friendly-seaside-resorts-in-brittany/
22. Brittany: A place of inspiration for Irish artists – https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/fine-art-antiques/2024/05/25/brittany-a-place-of-inspiration-for-irish-artists/
23. In the footsteps of painters in Brittany | Brittany tourism – https://www.brittanytourism.com/matching-what-i-want/ideas/in-the-footsteps-of-painters-in-brittany/
24. The beautiful Brittany beaches and coastline – https://thegoodlifefrance.com/the-beautiful-brittany-beaches-and-coastline/
25. Live the simple life in Brittany – Explore France – https://www.france.fr/en/article/live-the-simple-life-in-brittany
26. Six marine animal species to observe in Brittany | Brittany tourism – https://www.brittanytourism.com/matching-what-i-want/ideas/six-marine-animal-species-to-observe-in-brittany/
27. Brittany – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brittany