Brittany’s beautiful and dramatic coastline indeed fringes an emerald sea. Stunning vistas; charming and historic ports and villages; an endless array of water sports; profusion of sea bird species; a haven for artists, museums, and galleries, and delicious local cuisine make the region a truly special place to visit.
Don't miss the famous galettes (crêpes).
PINK GRANITE COAST
West Side
Your tour guide will meet you at your hotel and your will be on your way to the beautiful Pink Granite Coast. En route you will enjoy the charming town St Cast and Paimpol. You will also make a stop at Cape Frehel and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
The Pink Granite Coast is a world apart. The usual Breton landscapes disappear to give way to a symphony of colours. Unusual in these regions, they have made the reputation of this piece of land between Perros-Guirred and the Batz Island.
As the early as the beginning of the XIX century, many flamboyant mansions have been decorating this coast. As so, from the Trégastel or the Trébeurden beaches you can enjoy panoramic views of the Archipel-des-Sept-Iles (“Seven islands archipelago”) or of the Lannion bay.
The Pink Granite Coast, is also a natural reserve with an incredible biodiversity. The nearby rough rocks off the coast from Trébeurden or Millau Island are a good example. At sea, off Trébeurden, the first bird clinic was opened in order to save sea birds from oil slicks.
Is it luck or coincidence ? Writers spurred by an ideal about nature, often put down their luggage on the coast. Joseph Conrad lived many years on Ile Grande . Nature and “Celtic nationalism” are sung by The Scottish poet Kenneth White who lives not far from Sainte Anne de Trégastel.
Impossible to speak about the Pink Granite Coast without mentioning the chaos of the rocks. To watch them you only need to wander on the custom's trail from the Men Ruz lighthouse to the tip of Ploumanac’h.
EMERALD COAST
East Side - close to the Mont St. Michel
ST. MALO
With charm to spare and a tradition of seafaring exploration, the ancient walled citadel of St. Malo is a must-see Brittany highlight. Jacques Cartier set sail from here in 1534 and discovered Canada. In the 17th century pirates used the town as a key stronghold. And, during World War II, the town was all but destroyed. Today, more than 80 percent of the center of St. Malo has been meticulously restored and reconstructed to its former medieval heyday. Follow the cobblestone streets past lovely homes, shops and restaurants. Places worth visiting include the beautiful Chateau, Saint Vincent Cathedral, and the History Museum. Be sure to take a stroll along the ramparts where you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous scenes of the sandy coastline and an overview of the town.
DINARD
At the beginning of the 19th century, Dinard was a small fishing community not far from the neighboring village of Saint Enogat. Dinard began to look more like a seaside resort in the mid 19th century with the arrival of a number of English families and the first sea bathing "enthusiasts". Property development reached its height in around the 1870s through the actions of Count Rochaïd Dahdah, who was to be the real developer behind the resort.
You will enjoy a very nice and scenic walk along the seashore. Fresh air, relaxation and exceptional landscapes. A great feeling! Also, be aware that you can take a small ferry to reach St Malo. Very convenient and quicker than by car.
DINAN
Located about 18 miles inland from St. Malo, Dinan is a tranquil little town built along the banks of the Rance River. It has attracted artists and writers throughout history, and its charm is authentic. Quaint 15th and 16th-century half-timbered houses—completed with pointed gables and wooden balconies—line the narrow cobblestone streets and a chateau presides over the scene, its ramparts protecting the town since the 1300s. A walk along the Rue Jerzual toward the river offers delightful insights into village life and shops and patisseries exhibit the excellent local arts and crafts and culinary delicacies of the region. From the terraced garden of the Jardin Anglais, you can take in splendid views of the river valley and the town’s encircling walls.
MONT St. MICHEL (not in Brittany but very close)
Le Mont Saint Michel—a UNESCO World heritage Site—is a granite island about three quarters of a mile from the Normandy shore. The views of the “rock” and its 8th century monastery in the distance are, simply, magical. According to legend, the Archangel Michael appeared to the Bishop of nearby Avranches who built the first church on the rock and dedicated it to the saint. The current Abbey was completed in the 11th century. Visitors can explore the beautiful abbey, whose heaven-bound spire is crowned by a statue of St. Michael. Today, a causeway connects the island with the mainland.
We recommend lunch at the famous Mère Poulard restaurant where the fabulous omelets are unlike any you’ve ever tasted!