9 Incredible Stops For An Unforgettable Brittany Road Trip
Brittany is one of France’s best-kept secrets, with rugged coastlines, medieval towns, and legendary landscapes waiting to be explored. Here are 9 awesome things to see and do on a memorable Brittany road trip.
1. Walled City of Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo is a historic coastal town surrounded by impressive stone walls. Walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the sea and the town below. Inside, you can wander the narrow streets filled with local shops and cafés. Don’t miss the Château de Saint-Malo for a glimpse into its pirate past. The dramatic tides will suprise you.
2. Pink Granite Coast
The Pink Granite Coast (aka “Côte d’Armor”) offers a stunning landscape unlike any other in Brittany. Its unusual pink-hued rock formations create a striking contrast with the deep blue sea. The coastal paths are great for a peaceful walk, with ample beaches around. The small towns along the coast, like Ploumanac’h, are filled with charm.
3. The Medieval Village of Dinan
Dinan is a well-preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. The ramparts (fortified walls) offer views of the River Rance. The steep Rue du Jerzual is lined with local artisan shops. The 14th-century clock tower provides a great view of the town and countryside. The town’s history and lively market atmosphere makes it one of the most charming stops on a Brittany road trip.
4. Beaches of Quiberon
Quiberon Peninsula has a diverse coastline with both sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. The eastern side is lined with calm beaches like Plage du Conguel, great for swimming and relaxing. The western side, known as the Côte Sauvage, features dramatic cliffs, strong waves, and stunning views over the Atlantic. Quiberon town has a lively harbor, seafood restaurants, and shops. The area is also popular for water sports including sailing and windsurfing.
5. Carnac Standing Stones
The Carnac standing stones are one of the largest and oldest prehistoric sites in Europe, with over 3,000 megaliths (menhirs) spread across several fields. Dating back to around 4,500 BC, the stones are arranged in rows, circles, and clusters. Researchers are still unclear about their purpose. You can learn more about these intriguing structures at the nearby Musée de Préhistoire.
6. The Gulf of Morbihan
The Gulf of Morbihan is a beautiful inland sea with mild climate and calm waters, dotted with over 40 small islands. Popular islands like Île-aux-Moines and Île d’Arz are accessible by boat and offer scenic walking trails. The area is great for birdwatching, with many species finding refuge here. Towns along the gulf, such as Vannes, are rich in Breton culture and history.
7. Town of Concarneau
Concarneau is a charming coastal town with a walled old town called the Ville Close, which sits on a small island in the harbor. The fortified walls date back to the 14th century withgreat views of the sea. Inside, narrow streets are filled with cafés, shops, and galleries. The town is also famous for its fishing port, one of the most important in France – a great place for fresh seafood.
8. Cancale Oysters
Cancale is a charming seaside town known for its exceptional oysters, harvested from local farms along the coast. These oysters are famous throughout France, and you can enjoy them fresh at one of the many seaside stalls or restaurants. The town also offers beautiful views of the bay, with Mont Saint-Michel visible in the distance. Strolling through Cancale’s harbor area, you’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants and local shops.
9. The Enchanting Forest of Brocéliande
The Forest of Brocéliande, located near Paimpont, is often linked to the legend of King Arthur and Merlin. This mystical forest offers a mix of hiking trails, peaceful lakes, and ancient sites. You can visit the supposed tomb of Merlin and the Fountain of Youth, both tied to Arthurian myths. The forest has dense woods, meadows, and a serene atmosphere. A magical experience in Brittany.