15 Unmissable Experiences in Brittany
With its countless stone-walled crêperies, traditional dancing Fest Noz festivals, and road signs translated in Celtic language, Brittany loves to be unapologetically Breton. You will fall under the charm of this land shaped by the ocean, where fishermen hum centuries-old sea shanties at the local bar and tide times determine the course of the whole day.
If you are not one to be put off by below-average water temperatures and the occasional drop of rain, here are 15 unmissable things to see, watch, and experience in Brittany. The spectacular scenery and fresh catch of the day are well worth the effort.
1. Get Lost in the Charming Streets of Brittany’s Medieval Towns
There is no shortage of defensive walls, granite castles, and cobbled streets in Brittany. The region is home to a long list of towns and villages straight out of the Middle Ages, from Dinan’s colorful half-timbered houses to the flowery streets of Rochefort-en-Terre, through Moncontour, Vitré, or Josselin – each with its own history of fierce battles and lucrative mercantile trading.
Often topping the list of Brittany’s most picturesque villages, Locronan has been part of France’s select club of classified historic monuments since 1924. Perched on a mountain less than 10 km away from the sea, you can catch breathtaking sights of Douarnenez Bay. The town has a rich history of diverse faiths, and many Druid sites survive today.
Planning tip: The village hosts an enchanting Christmas festival in early December, featuring concerts, shows, and activities, all in true Breton style.
2. Take a Romantic Walk Along the Pink Granite Coast
Stretching over a dozen kilometers between Perros-Guirec and Trégastel, the Pink Granite Coast owes its name to the blush-colored rocks with a rare chemical composition formed from volcanic activity over 300 million years ago. The GR34 footpath meanders along the coast and offers splendid sights as the rocks’ soft pink meets shades of sea blues and earthy greens. Sunset lighting adds to the magic.
Local tip: Keep your eyes peeled for fantastically shaped rocks, including the “painter’s palette” and the “crab claw” in Trégastel. Additionally, don’t miss Mean Ruz, an active lighthouse emblematic of the region, built of pink granite.
3. Tour Finistère’s Famous Lighthouses
Finistère’s lighthouses, proudly displaying their names, guide ships through the night and are a trademark of the region. Ile Vierge, Saint Mathieu, Stiff, Trézien, and Petit Minou are among the lighthouses you can visit. Be prepared for a tough climb (up to several hundred steps), but the views are well worth the effort.
Planning tip: Be aware that many lighthouses are shut to the public during winter months. Check access details beforehand, as some lighthouses, like Ile Vierge, have specific requirements depending on tide times.
4. Trek Around the Beautiful Coastlines of the Crozon Peninsula
For postcard pictures, head to the Crozon peninsula, where rugged cliffs fall into turquoise waters, attracting tourists each year. The area’s wild landscapes are impeccably preserved.
The GR34 route, a long-distance walking trail following Brittany’s coastline, offers almost 150 km of pine trees and fragrant heather overlooking small coves and sandy beaches. You can access the footpath year-round from various points, and the red-and-white tags will guide you along the way.
5. Enjoy the Music Scene in Rennes
The capital of Brittany, Rennes, is known as one of the epicenters of rock music in France, a reputation growing since the late ’70s with the annual Trans Musicales festival. The city is packed with exciting musical events throughout the year.
If you’re interested in eclectic music gigs after a day of moped races, check out Rock’N’Solex in May. For a blend of traditional and experimental Breton folk music, don’t miss the Yaouank festival in November. There is a music scene for everyone.
6. Revel in the Lives of the Famous Pirates of Brittany
The fortified city of Saint-Malo, known as a cité corsaire (pirate city), was home to notorious French pirates during the 16th and 17th centuries. Here, you can spot replicas of historical pirate ships at the port, with opportunities for short sails.
If you prefer to stay on land, explore the city’s 12th-century fortifications for stunning sea and city views. A short distance away, you will see the National Fort, built in the 17th century to protect the riches accumulated by the privateers.
7. Savor Fresh Oysters in Cancale
Brittany is famed for Cancale, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mont Saint-Michel while indulging in some of France’s best oysters. The reputation of the huître de Cancale is well-deserved, making it a must for seafood lovers.
Local tip: Visit the town’s oyster market, where local aquaculturists sell their catch year-round. It’s the perfect place to learn about flat and cupped oysters, specialties of the region.
8. Take a Surfing Lesson
Brittany’s rising waves attract a growing number of water sports enthusiasts, with La Torche in Finistère being a top spot. Don’t hesitate to explore lesser-known locations such as the Bay of the Dead or Plouharnel in Morbihan.
If you’re new to surfing, many schools offer bodyboards for rent, which require minimal skills. Enjoy riding the waves!
9. Kayak Through a Secluded Lagoon
The Les Glénan archipelago is often compared to Tahiti for its stunning scenery. This exceptional ensemble of islands features sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, accessible only by boat.
From April to September, shuttle boats connect the archipelago to the mainland. The warmer summer months are perfect for renting kayaks and exploring at your own pace.
10. Wander Around Thousands of Prehistoric Menhirs
Near the small seaside town of Carnac, you’ll find approximately 3,000 menhirs, or upright stones, in three alignments. This site is the largest gathering of prehistoric stones in the world, built around 6,000 years ago.
Planning tip: Paths are accessible year-round, allowing you to view the stones from the outside. During the summer months, guided tours are required to walk freely through the area.
11. Go Harbor-Hopping in the Gulf of Morbihan
In the Gulf of Morbihan, small towns with picturesque harbors, including Auray, Le Bono, Larmor Baden, and Vannes, await your exploration. Vannes, with its windy historical streets, is a must-see.
Consider booking a boat trip to explore some of the 60 islands within the Gulf, with Ile d’Arz and Ile aux Moines being particularly popular.
12. Re-enact the Legend of King Arthur in the Brocéliande Forest
Merlin’s Tomb and the Valley of No Return are just a few of the magical sites open to visitors in Brocéliande Forest. Known for its connection to Arthurian legends, renting a bike or following a guided storytelling tour here offers an enchanting experience.
Planning tip: Some areas of the forest are private, and access may be restricted during hunting season, so check beforehand.
13. Ride a Certified Breton Horse in Lamballe
Brittany is renowned for its hearty Breton horses, ideal for carriage-pulling and agriculture. Visit the Haras National in Lamballe to see fantastic specimens and learn about their history while enjoying a carriage ride.
Make sure to book in advance, especially during school holidays when children can engage in fun learning activities.
14. Dive into Brest’s Fascinating Maritime History
Brest’s maritime culture is rich, with the National Maritime Museum located in the city’s historic castle recounting centuries of naval history. Explore the expansive roadstead of Brest, which is one of the largest in the world, by paddleboard or kayak.
Detour: Visiting the ship graveyard of Landévennec provides a unique sight of decommissioned vessels awaiting dismantling.
15. Enjoy Crepes and Cider
Nothing epitomizes Brittany quite like its famed crêpes. You’ll encounter cozy crêperies on nearly every street. Indulge in a delicious selection of sweet and savory toppings throughout your stay.
Planning tip: Be aware that not all crêperies offer English menus, and that savory crêpes are often called galettes made with buckwheat, while sweet crêpes are made with standard wheat flour.
