Discover France - Brittany

A seaside playground with plenty on offer for the entire family

Brittany holidays create lifelong memories going far beyond the surface delights of Breton crepes and cider.

While the far northerwestern region of France has taken on an identity of its own for many centuries, even to the extent that it has its own native language, it is hard not to feel right at home given its similarities in landscape to our very own south coast. 

Representing the perfect gateway into exploring France as a family for the first time, it’s down to you to choose how best to explore it! 

Looking for a self-drive adventure? Brittany’s lack of toll roads means you are free to venture off-the-beaten-track at no extra cost. Prefer to bike? With eight major cycle routes including the notable La Velodyssée stretching from the port of Roscoff towards Nantes, you really are spoilt for choice.  

Listed below are some of our own Brittany highlights, which should give you an idea of what to tick off the bucket-list when there:

Tasting the flavours of Brittany

 

No matter what your favourite tipple, there is so much variety available when it comes to wine, craft beer, cider and even French whisky, that you may well discover a new favourite. 

As you enjoy a stay at our Des Menhirs park at Carnac resort, you will find yourself within arm’s reach of the home of Muscadet; a fresh, zippy wine in which each sip reminds you of the coastal sea breeze - a must-try if you are partial to Melon or Chardonnay.  

When looking for orchards to explore north of Nantes and the River Loire, there are several interesting varieties of cider to try from the apples and pears that grow here. If you’re a fan of Kir Royale, be sure to try and Kit Normand cider with a splash of crème de cassis. 

Alongside Brittany’s own apply brandy known as Lambig, there is also a thriving craft beer industry here, with the staple malt and hops ingredients given an exciting twist; elderberries, honey, seaweed and spices.

Coast to Coast

 

Island hopping

Away from the famous sights of Brittany including St Malo’s medieval city streets and stunning natural harbour walkway, island tours in Brittany are equally as enthralling.

Belle Île off the coast of the Gulf of Morbihan and directly left of Nantes translates as the ‘beautiful isle’, and you only have to spend minutes on the island to see why. 

The largest island in the region has no fewer than 60 wonderful beaches to explore, with the main town of Le Palais accessible straight off the ferry. This unforgettable day-trip takes in the best of Brittany, where 18th century forts combine with great walking trails promising great views from all angles.

Keen adventurers in the family may also relish a trip to Île d'Ouessant, which is the westernmost island in Finistère as one of the most photogenic areas of Brittany. There’s plenty for kids here too, particularly at Marine Park and Armoric Natural Park, while the island is easily explored on bikes when searching for ‘The Famous Five’ lighthouses dotting the area. 

If you want to find out more about holidaying in Brittany with us, take a look at our Brittany region page to see where our parks are located.