Brittany guide

About Brittany

Just a short distance across the Channel, Brittany is one of the most popular holiday regions in France and offers something for everyone. Along the beautiful and varied coastline of over 700 miles, you'll discover endless sandy stretches, secluded coves, and rugged rock formations.

Inland there's breathtaking countryside, historic towns and quaint villages waiting to be discovered. From seaside resorts like Dinard and Benodet to ports such as L'Orient, and architectural gems including the regional capital Rennes, there are plenty of places to explore.

Enjoy Brittany's vibrant capital city of Rennes, the rich seafaring history of St Malo and the sheer elegance of neighbouring resort Dinard. Add the pristine medieval charms of Dinan, breathtakingly beautiful countryside, and even an enchanted forest, and you'll still have only scratched the surface of this region's delights.

Dramatic rock formations, fine beaches, glorious countryside, and a unique sense of identity mean that this part of Brittany is often compared with Cornwall. There's also the fabulous seafood, historic cities such as Brest, Quimper and Vannes, and the genuinely warm Breton hospitality to enjoy.

Cuisine of Brittany

Local specialities

Artichokes and a wonderful buttery sticky cake called Kouign Amman. Cancale oysters. Far Breton, a prune flan. Crêpes and galettes, sweet and savoury pancakes. Lobsters from Roscoff.

What's on the menu?

Cotriade Bretonne, a fish stew. Poulet au Cidre Breton, chicken cooked in cider. Moules Marinières, steamed mussels served in white wine sauce. Coquille St Jacques, a dish of scallops in a creamy sauce. Gigot d'Agneau, roast leg of lamb cooked with garlic.

What to drink

Brittany does not produce its own wine and so the Breton folk tend to enjoy dry, white Muscadet from neighbouring Western Loire which goes down so well with delicious seafood. Wash down those crêpes with a bolée (large cup) of strong Brittany cider.