Proud of its identity, Brittany embraces its singularities with passion. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice bilingual signage — in both French and Breton — adorning roads, public buildings and even the menus of local restaurants. Breton (or brezhoneg), an ancestral Celtic language, continues to live through community initiatives such as Diwan schools, where children are immersed in Breton from a very young age. While no longer widely spoken in daily life, the language is deeply rooted in the regional culture — found in songs, place names, oral traditions, and omnipresent public signs. The word “Breizh”, meaning “Brittany,” is worn proudly on local goods, bumper stickers, and flags alike.
Among the most recognisable symbols stands the Gwenn ha Du, Brittany’s striking black and white flag. It waves boldly at festivals, concerts and sporting events, embodying both a deep connection to tradition and a vibrant sense of cultural independence.
Geographically, Brittany is defined by the richness and complexity of its jagged coastline. Shaped by cliffs, abers, bays, rias, capes and peninsulas, it boasts the longest stretch of mainland coastline in France — between 2,000 and 2,700 kilometres, depending on how it’s measured. This makes Brittany a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts: sailing, sea kayaking, surfing, kitesurfing and scuba diving all thrive here in stunning natural settings.
Historically, Brittany is a land of sailors. Its ports have birthed generations of mariners and fishermen, some of whom helped forge France’s naval legacy. Many Bretons have also served in the French Navy, honouring a centuries-old maritime tradition. Today, Brittany still leads the nation in fishing and seafood production, with major fishing ports like Concarneau, Lorient, Le Guilvinec, and Erquy forming the backbone of France’s maritime economy.
But the sea is not the region’s only treasure. Brittany also boasts one of Europe’s most extraordinary megalithic heritages, notably at Carnac, home to thousands of standing stones dating back over 6,000 years. This mystical site is among the largest megalithic complexes in Europe — a testament to an ancient and enigmatic human presence.
As for Brittany’s famously unpredictable weather, its reputation is often undeserved. It’s true the oceanic climate brings frequent shifts and sometimes temperamental skies, but this ever-changing atmosphere is precisely what lends Brittany its dramatic landscapes and wild charm. It’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in a single day — yet between passing showers, the light breaking through the clouds creates scenes worthy of an impressionist painting.
In terms of lifestyle, the Bretons are known for their hospitality and sense of community. No visit is complete without sharing a bowl of cider, tasting a homemade crêpe, or chatting about the tides, the local weather, or the latest festival. While proud of their traditions and their land, Bretons are far from insular — they are warm and welcoming, especially when visitors respect their culture and embrace their pace of life.
Lastly, Brittany is one of the most environmentally committed regions in France. Dozens of its beaches and harbours are awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and sustainability. Local efforts to preserve both marine and terrestrial biodiversity are numerous and innovative — from regional natural parks and bird sanctuaries to dune restoration and wetland protection programs.
Brittany is not just a destination — it’s a world of its own, where deep-rooted traditions meet modern values, and where nature and sea are cherished above all. A region that leaves its mark — and one to which you’ll find yourself longing to return.
Sélection
Ambiance Deauville is a coastal town house to rent in Deauville, on France’s Côte Fleurie. Just one kilometre from the beach in northwest France, it comprises an elegant main house overlooking the racecourse and an annexe. Relax in style at this haven of understated elegance close to the town centre, shops and restaurants. Perfect for a holiday in Deauville with family or friends.
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Ambiances Mer is a seaside rental villa, unique in its location on a small promontory opposite the Morlaix bay. This holiday rental for six people in Brittany is a safe haven at the water’s edge. All the living areas and its three bedrooms offer breathtaking views. The Channel comes to you and you just have to let it sweep you off your feet. You won't find anywhere better for an invigorating holiday with a lovely sea breeze!
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ChicVillas brings you Bretagne Ambiance Plage, a French holiday villa by the sea. This beachfront property on Brittany’s Emerald Coast comes with a beautiful panoramic view from dawn to dusk and is just steps away from the beach down the coastal path. Living is easy on the Côtes d'Armor!
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Enjoy a front row seat facing the sea at this lovely French beach house to rent in Finistère. Along with spectacular views of the ocean, Bretagne Bord de Plage has all the charm of an old family home and a large garden that stretches down to the shore. With all amenities, five bedrooms, and the beach on the doorstep, it’s the perfect choice for a family holiday.
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Bretagne Rêve de Plage is a holiday rental in Brittany. It's a Breton house built of granite stone in the Bay of Morlaix. Its huge garden overlooks the beach and coastal path. The view is splendid. You'll enjoy a waterfront stay in a magical setting.
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Brittany on the Beach is a charming villa available to rent for your holidays, located in the charming area of Brittany. Its strength is its seaside location, with private access to the beach. It’s a beautiful villa with a modern style and luxury fittings, in particular an outdoor jacuzzi with a view of the sea. It has been designed to accommodate 10 people, one to two families.
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Brittany Sea View Cottage is a seaside holiday rental in North Brittany, between Perros-Guirec and the Bay of Paimpol. This character property is close to the beach and forms a little corner of paradise for a family holiday on the beautiful, rugged coast of Brittany. Its granite exterior is warm, welcoming and inimitably Breton.
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Seaview chateau. Solidly located on its promontory, Castel Marmousets embraces its view of the Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast). A Neo-Medieval-style château, it owes its name to the many sculpted wooden
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Built in the 18th century, Dream of Normandy is a charming property to rent in Normandy. A historic property, it welcomes you with a very subtle décor. A lot of charm and character is waiting for you in an emblematic area for a getaway full of romance. We invite you to experience something unique with your family or friends. This rental château with a swimming pool accommodates fifteen people in nine stylish bedrooms and interior and exterior communal areas which are both elegant and generous.
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Relax in the luxurious setting of this beautiful French chateau in Normandy, just an hour and a half from Paris. This exquisite rental chateau strikes the perfect balance between stately grandeur and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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