One of France's most rugged regions, Brittany is a fascinating mix of spectacular coastline, ancient towns, magical islands and inland woods. A Celtic duchy for more than one thousand years before its annexation to France in 1532, it is a land rich in culture, tradition and history. When you journey through this Western peninsula, you will discover a people whose language, customs and dress remain a vivid homage to their past.

 

Cote D'emeraude St. Malo
Built in granite rock in the English Channel, the bathing resort of St. Malo is known for it's castle, the cathedral of Saint Vincent, and the 14th century ramparts which overlook the sea. St. Malo is the birthplace of famous French writer and statesman, Chateaubriand.

Fougères castle is home to a truly magnificent medieval fortress steeped in history. This is an excellent excursion for unleashing a child's imagination.

DINAN. This medieval town with old houses, streets and ramparts which overlook the Rance is the place to see.

The market on Thursday is well worth a visit and the créperies and various restaurants at very reasonable prices will definitely keep Dinan in your memories.

Dinan's port is a must see with so many restaurants giving you a chance to sit outside and enjoy the warm summer sun. The beautiful village of Lehon on the other side of the Rance is something you shouldn't miss.

Le Mont St. Michel, rocky, cone-shaped islet in northwestern France, in the Gulf of St. Malo, connected by a causeway with the mainland.

The islet, celebrated for its Benedictine abby, has small houses and shops on its lowest level. Above these stand the monastic buildings, many of which date from the 13th century and are considered outstanding examples of Gothic architecture.

The entire islet is crowned by the abbey church, about 73m (about 240 ft) above sea level

Les Feeriques de Montgothier. 500 actors, 35 horses and a pack of hounds (that live on the outskirts of Cogles) take part in this, the biggest show in Normandy.

Including pyrotechnic special effects, this is a 2 hour show of the history of Normandy that you shouldn't miss! http://www.feeriques.com

Parc Floral de Haute Bretagne. With 15 magnificent botanical gardens, a tearoom, picnic area and a playground area for children, this is a flower lover's paradise and well worth a visit with all the family. http://www.parcfloralbretagne.com

Concale, a delightful seaside town, famous for local oysters, often a firm favourite with seafood loving guests. Before you drive into the centre of this popular unspoilt town, try to take time out to visit the oyster beds being worked, this is free of charge and quite interesting. Dont forget to have your camera with you. Drive into the town and the market traders who are very friendly will open the oyster shells for you to eat, along with a dash of lemon juice.

Fine seafood restaurants line the main street and there are many gift shops, selling postcards and fine gifts to take home. The short pier is a must to walk along, leading to nowhere.

There are many coastal walks in this area - a must for bird lovers.

The Brittany American Cemetery and Memorial, St James, just 10 minutes drive away from the house covers 28 acres of rolling farm country near the eastern edge of Brittany and contains the remains of 4,410 of our war dead, most of whom lost their lives in the Normandy and Brittany campaigns of 1944. Along the retaining wall of the memorial terrace are inscribed the names of 498 of the missing. Rosettes mark the names of those since recovered and identified.

The cemetery is open daily to the public from 9am to 5pm except December 25 and January 1. It is open on most country holidays


Many coastal walks, ideal for enthusiasts


Brittany Dancing


Woodland walks and suitable for bike riding.
Fishing is allowed with a permit.