With its capes and cliffs, beaches and spectacular coves, this former kingdom turned duchy, now a region of France, is full of fabulous legends. Whether you love good food, walking, watersports or history, you’ll leave enchanted… and wanting to come back!
1- Brocéliande and the Arthurian legends
The fairy Morgan le Fay, Merlin the Sorcerer and the Knights of the Round Table sound familiar? In Paimpont and Trehorenteuc, you can immerse yourself in the world of Arthurian legends. Opt for at least one guided tour with a storyteller, who will bring the stories to life as you walk on the ground that inspired them. In Paimpont, the immersive show La Porte des Secrets is an excellent introduction.
2- The Emerald Coast
The Emerald Coast offers magnificent vantage points. Whether you stop to gaze at the horizon at Pointe-du-Grouin or let your curiosity lead you to Fort du Guesclin, the former home of Léo Ferré, you’ll be overwhelmed by the dramatic beauty of these sites.
3- Saint-Malo and Jacques Cartier
For a Quebecer, a visit to Saint-Malo is like a pilgrimage. This is where Jacques Cartier, who now rests in the cathedral of Saint-Vincent, set sail. Several guided tours are available, including one on the explorer. From the ramparts you can also see Grand Bé, where Chateaubriand’s tomb faces the sea. This charming town has many establishments of various categories, including the luxurious Grand Hôtel des Thermes.
4- Belle-Ile-en-Mer
Situated in the south of Brittany, 15 km from the Quiberon peninsula and at the entrance to the Gulf of Morbihan, Belle-Ile-en-Mer is as fascinating for its landscape as it is for its history. The Acadians were once deported here. The actress Sarah Bernhardt fell in love with it and spent the last 30 summers of her life here. Claude Monet painted the Aiguilles de Port-Coton, which would impress even the least impressionable tourist. The island is accessible all year round by boat from Quiberon, a 45-minute crossing. You can bring your own car, take a taxi or simply rent a bike.
5- Kouign-Aman
We have to admit it was hard not to put this ultra-rich cake, which doesn’t look like much but is a real treat, at the top of the list. Kouign-Amann is, in our humble opinion, reason enough to hop on a plane to Brittany. Made from bread dough (more like croissant dough in Quebec), it is said to have been invented by chance by a local baker. The dough is covered with a mixture of butter and sugar and folded like puff pastry. Very addictive!
6- Rennes
The largest city in the region, Rennes has many attractions, including its iconic half-timbered houses. The Place des Lices is a must see and is 700 years old. Many events have taken place here over the centuries, including the public display of condemned criminals. Today there is a weekly market. Not to be missed are the Crêperie Saint-Georges, which serves delicious galettes named after the famous Georges, and the chocolate shop of Thierry Bouvier. Don’t miss the Magic Hall Hotel and its fabulous breakfast buffet!
7- Galettes
Similar to a crepe, the buckwheat galette is ubiquitous. Its history is linked to buckwheat, also known as sarrasin. If you’re not sure, ask for “la complète”, which contains ham, eggs and cheese. You should also try the sweet crêpes! A recommended topping: salted butter caramel. Divine!
8- Proximity to Nantes
Now the capital of the Loire-Atlantique department, Nantes has played an important role in the history of Brittany. It’s easy to get there from Rennes. Visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, discover the Machines de l’île, follow the green line of the Voyage à Nantes historical and cultural trail, stroll through the magnificent Passage Pommeraye and pick up madeleines and slices of Gâteau Nantais at the Talensac market, which you can enjoy at leisure on the banks of the Erdre. Do not miss the magnificent Art Nouveau brasserie La Cigale.
9- Butter
Does Brittany or Normandy make the best butter? We won’t start a debate here. One thing’s for sure: it’s everywhere! The Bretons are one of the few French people who prefer it salted. We fell in love with Bordier butter from Saint-Malo and its flavoured varieties. Our favourite? Lemon olive oil. A delight!
10- Cider
Cider first appeared in Brittany in the 13th century. It is enjoyed sweet, semi-dry or dry.
L’Épicurien Cave Gourmande, on the Boulevard de la Liberté in Rennes, is a treasure trove of varieties. A favourite is the bottled cider from La Ferme des Landes in Brittany.
