Like many Dutch people, I looked it up a little closer to home last summer. Tent in the car and go! As a rookie in France (in the past we always camped in the Netherlands or Italy) I let the country surprise me. The Brittany region is known for its finger-licking crepes, the rugged coast and medieval towns. In about 10 days we make a road trip to the most westerly point, which is about 1000 kilometers away from Amsterdam. On the way I am treated to one photogenic town after another, where time sometimes seems to have stood still. In this article, I’ll share my tips for things to do in Brittany!
Wander through romantic Vannes
Romantic Vannes is located in the south of Brittany. This city grew in the Middle Ages into a flourishing trading city due to its location on the Gulf of Morbihan. We arrive in the beautiful harbor, but the fun really starts when we stroll through the narrow streets of the walled city. We walk into the Rue des Halles and take pictures of the colorful houses.
Visit the city gardens of Vannes
As soon as we arrive at the Promenade de la Garenne, we immediately understand why Vannes has been awarded the Ville Fleurie label. This is a label for French cities and villages with beautiful and special gardens. The city gardens here are beautifully maintained, with many flowers in bright colors. The castle Château de l’Hermine completes the picture.
Taste a delicious French crepe or galette
If you feel hungry after a walk, settle down at a crêperie. I can wholeheartedly recommend the hearty galette with warm goat cheese and caramelized apple at Sarra’s!
Visit the historic Dinan
Dinan is a historic town that towers over the River Rance. The attractive center will be walled and restored after the bombings of the Second World War. It used to be teeming with merchants, in the summer of 2020 tourists stroll around with masks. It doesn’t make the experience any less.
Enjoy the view over Dinan
A must is to walk from the market square to the back of the basilica. From this park you have a beautiful view of the underlying river and the surrounding area. You can reach the river via the popular Rue du Jerzual, a photogenic street with half-timbered houses with special facades.
Stroll along the city wall of the port city of Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo is a port city with a rich history, north of Dinan. The city was once home to pirates authorized to loot enemy ships off the coast. Saint-Malo itself was protected by an immense wall along the coast. A walk on this city wall is a super fun way to fill your afternoon. You walk along the coast and the large warehouses, which were completely restored after the war.
Relax on the city beach Plage du Môle
Take a break at the city beach of Plage du Môle and enjoy the emerald sea.
Enjoy a delicious dinner in Saint-Malo
Would you like to enjoy an extensive dinner in the evening? For 30 euros you can eat a three-course menu at Le Cairn, and every dish is a feast for the eyes.
Taste fresh oysters in Cancale
Have you seen Saint-Malo and do you love oysters? Do not forget to visit Cancale, a port town 20 km away where you can sip 12 farm-fresh oysters for 9 euros.
Practical information for a trip to Brittany
- By car to Brittany. Brittany is easily accessible by car from the Netherlands and Belgium. From Utrecht it is an 800 to 1000 kilometer drive, depending on where in Brittany you are staying. You can drive via Caen or Paris. The road via Paris is the fastest, but it costs a little more toll. You do not have to pay toll anywhere in Brittany itself. On site it is also very convenient to have a car with you, as many beautiful villages are quite remote.
- Spend the night in Brittany. In Brittany there are many beautiful accommodations to spend the night: on the beach, in the middle of nature or in the center of one of the attractive towns. View the most beautiful hotels and apartments in Brittany here or book an Airbnb. We can offer you a € 30 discount on your first stay through Airbnb.
- Would you prefer a ready-made tour through Brittany? You can book beautiful individual tours through Brittany via Kras or PharosReizen.
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