Discovering Brittany
Welcome to the second of our “spotlights”.
This month we’re visiting a magical region.
I first visited Brittany in 2012 and fell in love. From quaint villages to bustling market towns, from wooden houses to towering, stone chateaux, from peaceful roads to narrow streams, there was so much to explore and enjoy that my journey was all too short.
Spread over 13000 square miles in northwest France, Brittany is a large region.
With an exceptionally rich history, it has been occupied since the Lower Paleolithic era with the most ancient vestige, a stone hearth, dated at 450, 000 years old!
Homo Sapiens settled here over 35000 years ago but only began farming 30000 years later.
The region has been relatively sparsely populated ever since these times, especially inland, and remains fairly resistant to change. A slow pace of life is the norm here and so refreshing.
Originally an independent kingdom, Brittany became part of France in 1532.
The region maintains a distinctive Celtic cultural identity: The myths and legends of King Arthur and Merlin, traditional music and costumes worn with pride, and the extraordinary megaliths being an integral part of this.
So why visit Brittany?
The peace…
Quiet reigns and the Bretons are soft-spoken. Take time to disconnect from the everyday stresses of life and enjoy the tranquillity.
The food and drink: Bon appetit!
Enjoy a galette, a savoury pancake made with buckwheat filled with your choice of fillings, followed by a sweet crêpe, washed down with a locally brewed cider.
Seafood is also very popular, especially on the coast where supremely fresh oysters and mussels can be savoured.
Don’t miss the local biscuits, made with delicious salted butter, and sold in metal tins. Perfect with a cup of tea!
What to see…
There are numerous medieval towns and villages throughout the region.
Admire the timber-framed houses, ancient churches and monuments.
Outstanding chateaux can be seen at Josselin and St Malo.
Step back in time to see Merlin’s tomb in the Broceliande forest, close to Rennes, where you will also find a fine cathedral.
No trip to Brittany would be complete without visiting some of the Menhirs, or great stones, these wonderful Megaliths that dot the landscape.
What to do… Spoilt for choice
Admire the scenery and the flora and fauna
Visit the coast to see Atlantic Puffins, but also marine life such as sharks, seals, turtles and more…
A refreshing swim on one of the beautiful sandy beaches? It’s a great summer day out.
Brittany is perfect for cyclists, horseback riders and walking enthusiasts alike, with little traffic.
Numerous festivals take place throughout the year, mostly music-based: Enjoy the fun and join in!
Brittany is the ideal destination for families and couples alike. Easily accessible from the UK, but also from Paris for our guests travelling from further afield.
Self-drive cruises
Meander along the lovely rivers and canals of this region and you could well feel as if you are the King of Brittany!
Explore the Rivers Vilaine and Erdre, and the canals: Ile and Rance and the Nantes to Brest for a great holiday.
We have over 20 boats to choose from in the region, so whether you wish to get back to nature aboard a traditional “Penichette” from Locaboat, or bask in the glory of a modern-style cruiser, we have a model to suit up to 12 people.
Cruise in August aboard Le Boat & save 15% when confirming by July 15th
Skippered cruises
If you would prefer to watch a captain at work and spoil yourselves with a very relaxed half-board holiday for 2, how about joining hotel barge Tara?
Her friendly hosts will take you on a voyage of discovery along the Canal d’Ille et Rance, while you soak up all things Breton, including the beautiful towns of Dinan and Rennes.
Book this barge today for a 2015 holiday and enjoy complimentary wine throughout your stay!
Alternatively, a cruise for up to 4 guests can be yours above the delightful Libje.
Each day enjoy guided excursions, including Malestroit, Josselin and Rohan, as well as plenty of cruising along the river Vilaine and the Canal de Nantes à Brest. The friendly crew will be delighted to showcase the best of Brittany for your delight. Just two dates remain in 2015: September 12th to 18th, and September 23rd to 29th, so hurry!
Or book now for 2016 at the 2015 rates
For more information
To cruise in Brittany in 2015 or 2016, email us for information on our current availability and special offers.
We’ll be delighted to help you plan the perfect cruise for you and your family or friends.
We’ll send you a range of cruises to consider, within 24 hours!
Brittany is so easy to get to!
