Rennes

Rennes, my city! I live in Rennes for 20 years now, so it seems natural to conclude this tour of Brittany by this city especially since it is in the heart of Brittany. To complete your stay and go home (if you live in England), you can return to Saint-Malo in less than an hour by car or train (about 15 €). There are also buses for those who want to save money.

Rennes being the capital, is the most populous city of Brittany with around 210 000 inhabitants. In this article I'm going to make you discover all the little magical places in Rennes not to be missed!

I think the best way to discover the city is to walk on foot in the city. Just take a sunny day and let loose along the cobbles streets through town.

• The old Town

Rennes is composed of several neighborhoods as nice as each other. The facades of the old town date from the 15th and 16th century. These streets are home to all kinds of shops and small stores, restaurants, bars, galleries of art, etc. But I say no more I leave you with some pictures that I hope will give you the desire to discover:

Rue Saint George

Place Champ Jacquet

Here are some key streets:
- Rue Saint George
- Place Champ Jacquet
- Rue de la Monnaie
- Rue Saint-Sauveur
- Rue du Chapitre
- Etc.

If you walk in the city, you can also perceive "Les Portes Mordelaises" (the Mordelaises doors) that match the remains of the ramparts of Rennes. It was one of the four entrances to the city of Rennes. Today Les Portes Mordelaises kept all their charm with the draw bridge surrounded by the building and two large towers. Above the front door is a stone engraved with a coat of arms: two lions on each side of a spear. This is the flag of the Dukes of Monfort who ruled over Britain from 1364 to 1514.

Front face: Les Portes Mordelaises

Rear side: Les Portes Mordelaises

• Bars and restaurants

The center has a multitude of bars, bistros and restaurants. I can not present all but I decided to show you the ones I prefer and especially a place where you can take a break and have a drink, eat ice cream on the terrace, stop at a crêperie (if you do not know not that type of restaurant, check out the article on Saint-Malo). I think the Place Saint Anne summarizes very well all that one can find in terms of bars and small restaurants. It is a well known place and attracts many tourists. Moreover, this site has access to the metro so very easy to access. Here a picture: 

Place Saint Anne

• Some essential parts

During your walks do not hesitate to stop at Place de la Mairie (Town Hall Square), Place du Parlement (Parliament Square), Place Hoche, Place Charles de Gaulle with a big cinema and library "Les Champs Libres", but also Le Parc du Thabor (Tabor Park)! Here some pictures:

Place de la Mairie

Place du Parlement

Library: Les Champs Libres

Parc du Thabor

Parc du Thabor

There you go ! Our tour of Britain's over! I think with all the different stages previous city you can easily discover the essential charm of this beautiful region. Of course, nothing prevents you to make more stops in the heart of the land and extend your stay!
If there is a city that interests you and which I have not mentioned, please feel free to comment and I can help you!

Pont-Aven // Baden

Pont-Aven is a town located on the south coast of Brittany. The journey between Douarnenez and Baden offers several possibilities. You can go through towns known in Brittany as Quimper, Pont-Aven, Guidel or Lorient. What I offer you is to stop in Pont-Aven, a city famous for its biscuit factory. One of my fondest childhood memories is the visit of this city several years ago. Of course, you can directly go in Baden or Guidel, you are free to explore!

Pont-Aven

• Biscuit factory

A real childhood dream! The biscuits manufactured in Pont-Aven are sold throughout Britain and some shops of Regions nearby. The manufacture of these biscuits is happening in a house of the XIXth century, called "L'Atelier de la Galette".

"L'Atelier de la Galette": the biscuit factory

The factory can be visited to discover some trade secrets. A tasting is also planned for the end of the visit. The store at the outlet offers all manufactured biscuits. These biscuits are of course typically Breton. One of the main ingredients is the salted butter caramel, you can also find one of Breton specialties which I had already spoken in the article about Saint-Malo: Kouign Amann but also the famous "crêpes dentelle" (lace pancakes).

Galettes

Crêpes dentelle

Galette with salted butter caramel

On the official website, you can buy online these delicious biscuits.

• Windmills

Pont-Aven is also a city known for its windmills, this is a rare city in Britain to have mills still operating: 14. These mills are used for the manufacture of local products. Let yourself go to many walks the edge of a watercourse conducting usually to a mill. Change of scenery guaranteed.

Moulin du Grand Poulguin

Pont-Aven is a city full of surprises, this is also an opportunity to go back with full of memories and so discover a part of Britain to your loved ones! Do not be afraid to take a few kilos!

Douarnenez

Douarnenez is one of my favorite cities. I think this is a perfect opportunity to rest before tackling the southern coast of Brittany. Like most small towns in Brittany, Douarnenez offers the typical activities such as walks, tours with surprising stories, boat trips and especially water activities.

So I decided to focus on the "zen" aspect of the city, that is to say the best places to sleep, but also to eat, do not forget!

This side of the harbor is very famous in the region, with the colorful facades. 

Where to eat ?!

• Traditional cooking

Le Prieuré: this restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere where you can taste local cuisine that emphasizes essential with Breton fresh produce: fish from the coast, seafood, etc.  The restaurant also has a hotel function, feel free to relax here!

• The perfect mix

La crêperie "La Capitainerie": this is the perfect mix because this restaurant is both a brasserie, a crêperie and also offers a variety of dishes composed of local seafood. But that's not all! In the afternoon the establishment is also transformed into a tea room, a great opportunity to taste the ice-cream and chocolate maker talent of the owners.

La Capitainerie

Many pancake turns into tearooms, feel free to stroll along the beaches to find nice places to delight your taste buds.

Where to sleep ?!

As usual, I prefer to show you the locations or houses so that you discover the charms of the Brittany but you are free to choose. Here is a link allowing you to easily find and choose the type of accommodation you want.

• Houses or apartments for rent

For this category, I suggest you visit the website above for the offers vary according to demand but also the desired period. Your turn to play!

• Hotels

Le Clos de Vallombreuse: this is without doubt the most beautiful and majestic hotel of Douarnenez. This is a quality domain, offering quiet swimming pool spacious green areas. You will not be disappointed with the view. The romantic atmosphere awaits you. A relaxing spa area is also available.

Hotel: Le Clos de Vallombreuse

Hôtel Le Bretagne: hotel situated in the city centre. Less expansive than the Clos de Vallombreuse, between 49€ and 78€ for 2 persons per night because there are 3 types of rooms: eco, standard and confort. For an eco room it is around 49€ for 2 with free wifi, television, telephone and shower in the bedroom. Le Bretagne also has a spa to relax. 

Hotel: Le Bretagne

I hope you can go to Douarnenez and do not hesitate to ask me if you have questions!
The next article will be about Baden, a town where I had the chance to spend several holidays.

Brest

Brest is the largest city of the west of Brittany and the second in the region after Rennes, the capital. It is also a very tourist town, where millions of travelers come every year. You do not discover Brittany without going through this great city! This is a must and that is why I decided to give you some ideas for the perfect trip!

The key elements of a real tourist:

- The port

The port of Brest is both a marina, trade, passengers and the largest French military port on the Atlantic coast. It is imperative for you to take a walk there! Through all its activities and being a little lucky, you might be able to observe fishing boats in action, discharging their fishing harvest. During a stroll along the harbor, you can also observe rare luxury liner mooring. You'll understand that there will always be something to do in this port.

Military port of Brest

The marina of Brest

One of the attractive aspects is access offered by the port to the Crozon peninsula. The peninsula offers all the typical activities enjoyed by tourists surfing, gliding, hiking, beautiful beaches, etc. But I will not tell you more because I decided to write you a mini article about Crozon!

- Océanopolis

Océanopolis is a Centre of Scientific Culture and Technology Sea near the port of Brest and offers the general public of all ages a dive in the heart of the marine environment and its ecosystems. It's like a giant aquarium. The ocean discovery park has 68 aquariums and basins containing 4 million liters of seawater. Océanopolis has become the main attraction for all the little Breton children.

Tropical fish in Océanopolis

Inside, 4 parks are available, each with a different universe: the tropical pavilion, polar, temperate and biodiversity. But I prefer to let you discover for yourself! Do not hesitate to inquire on the website of "Océanopolis".

Sharks in Océanopolis

- Castle of Brest

The castle dates from the seventeenth century but has lost none of its charm. It is possible during a ride to get there, the opportunity to take some great shots. Since 1955, the castle also hosts the Navy's national museum collections. Another must! A trip to the museum will also allow you to discover a little history of the castle and the city.

The Brest's castel

Of course, Brest is located on the coast and is surrounded by many beaches. Sunny beaches for the lucky ones! You will find all the necessary calm for a late afternoon, after visiting Océanopolis for example.

Where sleeping? I propose this time to sleep for the next step: Crozon! Enjoy your stay in Brest!

Roscoff

For this third stop, I suggest you stop at Rosko (Roscoff in Breton). This town is located 72km or 1h15 drive from Perros-Guirec. This is the last town you can explore the north coast of Brittany.

(After the trip around the Brittany will be accomplished, I plan to concentrate and make you discover some islands easily accessible from the cities that I offer. See you in the end to know everything!)

Little information: it is a city serviced by Brittany Ferries as Saint-Malo but it also has a connection with Spain for the bravest!

• A day at Roscoff:

Roscoff is a small city, activities are scarce. It is therefore a quiet town, full of charm where the days are punctuated by the sound of waves, walks along the beaches and discover the land of Brittany. A simple idea is to take his car where rent one for people who do not have and let loose on the surrounding roads. The landscape of this city are perhaps the most typical of the Breton landscapes, you will see the villages where houses are of origins, built of stone, the small village composed of one or several bakeries (very typical in Brittany!), churches are also original and preserved architecture.

Church "Notre-Dame de Croaz-Bats", Roscoff

There is nevertheless an activity not to be missed in Roscoff: scuba diving. This activity is available in St Pol de Léon, a small town located 5km from Roscoff. Departure times are available through this link.

The Roscoff nautical center also offers several boat trips and activities. You can practice sailing, kayaking and even take private lessons if you want to improve your level. For more information, you can visit their official website.

Roscoff also has a protected wildlife that you can discover the exotic botanical garden. Discover 3 000 species of subtropical plants, a rock 18 meters high with panoramic views of the Bay of Morlaix, waterfalls, ponds and fountains.

Example of tropical flowers

Exotic botanical garden

Anecdote: the famous Roscoff onions. The mild climate also promotes market gardening and especially that of succulent Onion Roscoff protected by an AOC and AOP. This local product is part of local history through the human adventure of Johnnies. Since the nineteenth century, the Johnnies, Roscoff onions dealers, depart every August, on the other side of the Channel, sell their onions. It is a well known story.

• Where to sleep tonight?

The "Hôtel aux Tamaris" seems to be the best compromise. It offers rooms where the service is excellent, overlooking the sea and especially several options approaching the services of thalasso therapy.

The charm of this city does not stop there because its port provides access to one of the most beautiful island in Brittany: “L’île de Batz”! See you later for discover this new mystery appearance.

Perros-Guirec

What better than Perros-Guirec to make your second stop of your Brittany's tour!

After discovering and be charming by the active life of Saint-Malo why not take a few days to relax in Perros-Guirec.

The route's Saint-Malo - Perros Guirec is the longest path among those that I will present in this blog, about 2 hours drive. In the future, I will try to organize your trip with maximum 1h30 path between two cities.

Perros-Guirec is a town smaller city than Saint-Malo but known mainly for its authenticity. We can say that the town represents to itself all Brittany. Indeed, whether landscapes, activities or local enterprises, everything is typically Breton.

As I told you, Perros-Guirec is a town that remains calm despite tourist population during the summer. It is ideal to regain strength during your trip while continuing to discover Brittany.

I propose to alternate between spa and peaceful visits.

Relaxation 

• The “Thermes Marins”

This is the largest thalassotherapy center of the town and especially one of the most recognized in the region as it has several programs for all people suffering from pain, especially joint.

This center offers programs for one day, half-day or individual. For more information, here is the website. 

• Sleep in Perros-Guirec

In this article I really want you to introduce you to the tranquility and beauty of Brittany. This is why I advise you as housing rental home really. The prices are affordable, the owners are friendly and especially the houses are typical Breton.

I give you here the official website for Perros-Guirec's tourism. You will find directly all available accommodations and all walks and tours available.

Discovery 

The tourist office and/or independent organizations offer many activities in Perros-Guirec. Here are my 3 favorite activities, there are of course many other activities (sports and water if you're feeling energetic!)

• The "Balade Mediative" (Mediative Ride)

Come wake walking along the beaches and see the pink granite coast. This walk is made to awaken your senses: walk, breathe, observe, feel, see and hear. This takes place every Friday from June and every Friday from 29 July to 28 September. Here is a link that will allow you to get in touch and book your place if you want.

• “Paysage de granit” (granit landscape)

This ride is for nature lovers but also curious. "Why granite is pink?" If you ask yourself this question this path is for you! The tour is led by a guide who will take you to discover this part while explaining the history of these rocks. Schedules and information here.

• "Un éclat dans la nuit" (a shine in the night) 

This walk begins at sunset and takes place on the beach. The darkness is countered by pretty lanterns that will enlighten your steps. You can also see something very typical here: lighthouses, used to help boats to moor at night. For now, the expedition is scheduled 4 times, 5 and 19 July and 2 and 16 August. Warning reservations required in advance here.

Well, I hope you enjoy your stay in Perros-Guirec and you relax because the road is not over!

Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo or Sant-Maloù in Breton is a city in the North-East of Brittany. Begin the trip through this town seems to be a good starting point because it is the city where there is the largest port for passengers in the region between Brittany and the United Kingdom. The city is easily accessible to all individuals and families from the North.

Saint-Malo is a charming city for both its land and sea side. This is a little spot of paradise if you enjoy sunbathing on the sand, stroll along the harbor or discover the architecture remained intact, you will be happy to deposit your bags a few days.

A dream setting : 

• Intra-Muros

This area of Saint-Malo is undoubtedly the best known part of the city and especially the most typical. This is the "hidden", so-called "Old Town", surrounded by ramparts, this part is only accessible on foot. The architecture takes you into a magical atmosphere harboring hidden treasures. Insides there are many small cobbled pedestrian streets where you can discover a life that seems quiet and many small shops. Of course, several shops are dedicated to Brittany and allow you to come back with memories like the famous tee-shirt marine (blue and white striped), the Galette bretonne (no pancakes, it is totally different) and a Bigoudène that you can hang in your car.

• Feeling hungry ?

Crêpe 

Yes, walk, discover and perhaps even losing can open the appetite. So you can stroll through streets and small stone’s stop for a gourmet break. Many merchants offer waffles, pancakes, ice cream or the Breton specialty: amann kouign. This specialty is mainly made of butter. You can find the recipe link here if you want to bring one part of Britanny at home: here.

Galette

To continue in the Breton charm, you cannot spend a few days in Saint-Malo without enter, sit down and order delicious “galettes” followed by “crêpes” accompanied by cider locally produced. These specialties are made from different flours and are eaten in restaurants called "crêperie". The galettes are accompanied by savory ingredients while crêpes are accompanied by sweet ingredients.

Saint-Malo is an ideal city to enjoy the benefits of Brittany, I had the opportunity to go there regularly since my childhood and to test several restaurants.

Here are the restaurants that are a must for me during your stay:

The “Crêperie Margaux”: this restaurant with typical decoration offers all the Breton’s specialities at affordable prices, around 15€ for a menu. I recommend you the galette called “Arthur”: excellent!

“Bouche en folie”: if you want to taste local products and seafood, this restaurant is for you. Between 15 and 30€ for a menu (yes more than the other but all products are fresh and seasonable). Ideal for a romantic dinner just 20 meters from the beach and close to the ramparts.

• A moment of madness?

    Want to sunbathe?

You just have to climb some stairs during your stroll to reach the top of the ramparts. From there you can see all the beauty of the city in your back while sandy beaches await you down! Saint-Malo is 19 kilometers scope of sandy beaches filled with surprises including 3 kilometers surrounding Intra-muros. At low tide, several sites reveal some coves, dunes, cliffs and ruins. So you have to be patient and just go with what offers Breton’s nature. Several activities are available for all ages, sports, kids club, etc.

    
   
      In the evening

The principal activity and the most famous of Saint-Malo is the casino called “Barrière Casino”. Several gambling halls are installed containing slot machines and table games such as Black Jack. The casino also has theaters that can accommodate concerts or just entertainment. Do not hesitate to ask beforehand.

• Tired?

Accommodation in Saint-Malo is not really complicated, among many hotels, guest houses and other means, you will always find a place to rest and unwind. The best thing to do is book your hotel in the Intra-muros. From there you can make the majority of your desires on foot.

If you want to fall asleep to the waves and enjoy breakfast with breathtaking views of the beach I recommend this hotel: Hotel Kyriad Saint Malo Centre Plage.

For character and charm you can also look with some French keywords like "logement St Malo" which means “accommodation St-Malo”. Rent an apartment allow you to have more freedom and especially to meddle in local life totally. Feel free to look for a rental!

I hope you enjoy your first step in Britain, get ready for more!