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Best things to do in Brittany

Located at the far northwestern tip of France, Brittany is a world of its own — proudly rooted in its history, culture, and traditions. A land of striking contrasts, it captivates visitors with its rich heritage, raw natural beauty, and quiet yet powerful identity. Steeped in Celtic legends and heroic tales, Brittany evokes the enchanted realm of Brocéliande and the Knights of the Round Table just as much as it does the bustling harbours of the Atlantic coast or the twisted spires of granite-built villages.

The birthplace of the Breton language and a wealth of enduring customs, the region offers a true immersion into a world that feels both ancient and vibrantly alive. Bretons are warm-hearted and deeply connected to their land, upholding a lifestyle built on simplicity, togetherness, and deep respect for the elements. Here, conversations often revolve around the weather, the tides, traditional music and cuisine — not to mention the many local legends passed down over cider or a platter of freshly caught seafood.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Brittany's peninsular position gives it an exceptionally diverse landscape. From the Pink Granite Coast to the dramatic cliffs of Finistère, from the white sandy beaches of Morbihan to the blooming heaths of inland Brittany, the region is brimming with natural treasures to explore. Its jagged coastline stretches for more than 2,700 kilometers — the longest in mainland France — ensuring that wherever you go, the sea is never far. This closeness to the ocean shapes daily life and gives the region its distinct sense of freedom, openness, and authenticity.

Brittany is a place to experience at your own pace — through its tides, its traditional festivals, and its lively markets. Whether you settle in a quaint fishing village, stroll through medieval towns like Dinan or Vannes, or lose yourself on winding countryside paths, each corner reveals a new story, a hidden gem. History lovers will be drawn to the countless megalithic sites, especially the famed standing stones of Carnac, while admirers of architecture will fall under the spell of castles, abbeys, and hilltop chapels scattered across the landscape.

But Brittany is far from a frozen-in-time museum — it's also a thriving cultural hub in constant motion. From traditional music to Celtic festivals, Breton dancing to contemporary art exhibitions, creativity flows with a strong sense of identity. The fest-noz — lively night gatherings with music and dancing, now listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage — are perhaps the most joyful symbol of this enduring spirit, bringing together generations in celebration.

On the culinary side, Brittany enchants with the generosity of its cuisine and the freshness of its produce. No visit would be complete without tasting buckwheat galettes, salted butter, just-caught shellfish, or the famous kouign-amann, a caramelised pastry as decadent as it is delicious. The region’s gastronomic scene, rooted in tradition yet open to innovation, champions local sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and artisanal excellence.

In Brittany, everything invites you to slow down, observe, and feel. The climate is mild, tempered by the ocean, with shifting light that constantly redefines the scenery. Even the frequent but fleeting rain showers lend a poetic charm to the atmosphere. Whether you’re here to recharge, explore, or simply unwind, Brittany offers a genuine and profound sense of escape — all without ever leaving France.

To choose Brittany is to embrace a land of legends and landscapes, of strong character and heartfelt welcome. Many who come once find themselves returning again and again, drawn by a quiet sense of nostalgia. For here, perhaps more than anywhere else, authenticity and simplicity are the rarest — and most unforgettable — of luxuries.

beach-near-Camaret-sur-mer

 

About the Region

About the Region

Britanny has a wealth of ruggeda landscapes, character-packed towns and lively seaside resorts

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Food and Drink in Brittany

Food and Drink in Brittany

The food in Brittany is like the people; unfussy, down-to-earth and authentic

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Best things to do in Brittany

Best things to do in Brittany

On the coast or further inland, there’s plenty to do in Brittany

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What's On in Brittany - Dates for the Diary

What's On in Brittany - Dates for the Diary

Some of the annual festivals and events you won't want to miss

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Good to know

Good to know

Things you might not know about Brittany

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  • Ambiance Deauville

    Ambiance Deauville

    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

    Ambiances Mer

    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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  • Bretagne Ambiance Plage

    Bretagne Ambiance Plage

    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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  • Bretagne Bord de Plage

    Bretagne Bord de Plage

    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 Reve de Plage

    Bretagne Reve de Plage

    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

    Brittany on the Beach

    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

    Brittany Sea View Cottage

    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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  • Castel Marmousets

    Castel Marmousets

    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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  • Chateau Dream of Normandy

    Chateau Dream of Normandy

    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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  • Chateau Paris Normandie

    Chateau Paris Normandie

    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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