History and nature in Great Brittany
GREAT BRITTANY - A PARADISE FOR HISTORY AND NATURE LOVERS
The beautiful coastlines and countryside of Brittany provide ample activity for those who love the great outdoors. With lovely lakes, sprawling gardens and rugged sea and land, Brittany waits to welcome nature lovers with open arms. The medieval villages and towering castles which pepper the region are brimming with history perfect for those with a penchant for the past to explore.
Hero image credit: Emmanuel Berthier/Brittany Tourist Board
Perfect peninsulas
The beautiful islands and peninsulas in Brittany provide breathtaking ocean views and stunning backdrops for walkers, cyclists and those who love to discover natural beauty. La Pointe du Grouin marks the western most tip of Mont Saint Michele and provides amazing panoramas across the bay as well as views across to Île des Landes which is a bird reserve and inaccessible to humans. Grab your binoculars and see which unusual birds you can spot.
Further west is the Quiberon Peninsula. With its rugged coastline, sandy beaches and rich cultural history, it's a wonderful place to explore. Do some water-sports, enjoy a seaside stroll and sample some fresh seafood here – you won't be disappointed.
Image credit: Emmanuel Berthier/Brittany Tourist Board
Captivating castles
Visit the 15th century Castle of Vitré to see artefacts from the 17th century onwards, as well as a 19th century cabinet of curiosities. Walking through the castle walls and towers, you'll find medieval and renaissance sculptures, traditional tapestries and historical artefacts.
The 13th century town of Châteaugiron has a beautiful château with a medieval fortress which includes a 15th century castle keep, and clock tower and a belfry with fabulous views across the town.
For grandeur and stunning surroundings, the 14th century Château de Suscinio on the Rhuys peninsula fits the bill. A former hunting lodge of the Dukes of Brittany, you can enjoy guided tours in summer and an unmissable son et lumière in July and August.
Image credit: Noe C/Brittany Tourist Board
Historic towns
Labelled a 'Small town of character' Malestroit's historic streets lead from the banks of the River Oust to the walled town, and are a delight to stroll through.
The magnificent castle in Fougères is one of the finest fortresses in Europe, with pepperpot turrets standing tall at the top of the town. Visit here to uncover 1000 years of history in the castle and medieval old town which was once a major industry hub for cloth makers.
Visit the Musee de Bretagne in Rennes. Uncover the history of the region from prehistoric times and even hear Breton being spoken, before wandering through the town.
Image credit: Noe C/Brittany Tourist Board
The natural world
Combine nature and history with a visit to the ancient standing stones at Carnac. Three fields contain around 3,000 aligned plinths, which date from 4000BC and are thought to have religious or cultural significance. The Museum of Prehistory brings the ancient world to life even more.
The Lac au Duc in Ploermel is the largest of Brittany's inland lakes and has plenty of activities including fishing and watersports. Stroll the 3km Hydrangea Walk around the lake to see several hundred varieties of the beautiful blooms.
A visit to La Ballue Garden near Mont Saint Michel feels like you're stepping into a Lewis Carroll novel, with its labyrinth routes and manicured gardens. Head to Haute Bretagne Botanical Park's 24 poetic gardens.
Image credit: Emmanuel Berthier/Brittany Tourist Board
