Brittany is situated on the North West coastline of France, with Normandy and Pays de la Loire to the east. There is much to explore along its 3500 Km coastline with its rocky cliffs, sandy beaches and beautiful old fishing villages. Brittany’s countryside is dominated by gently rolling hills, valleys, moors and large forests. In this region there is a large choice of vacation rentals available for rent either directly from the owners or via their agents to suit all budgets.
Being a coastal region the seafood is of first class quality, especially the seafood platters overflowing with fresh shellfish of all descriptions. Brittany is a region steeped in history, legend and tradition. Tales abound of Merlin, Viviane the fairy, Lancelot and King Arthur, who visited Brittany searching for the Holy Grail. It has a strong Celtic heritage highlighted by the historical links to the Irish and Welsh across the channel.
Brittany’s climate ranges from warm summers with temperatures reaching 28 degrees C to mild winters. Find your dream holiday villa on Rent Property Direct and explore this beautiful region.
Festivals
The annual 9 day Cornouaille festival held at Quimper in July is dedicated to Brittany’s tradition and culture. Up to 4000 artists take part in the mostly free concerts and events. Also during July there are plays and concerts at the Tombees de la Nuit in Rennes. The well-known Pardon religious festivals during the summer are fairly spectacular with their dancing and processions accompanied by the Celtic harp and drums.
Historical sites
Brittany often found itself in the middle of the long conflicts between England and France, and hence has many impressive coastal fortifications and inland forts to fend off the invaders. The Brittany Marches is an inland defensive network of forts, which you can follow visiting old forts along the way. Along the coast explore the National fort at St Malo or the Vauban citadel at Bellelle.
Activities
Being a coastal region, Brittany is ideally situated for water sports and there are hundreds of sailing schools and water sports centres. For the sailing enthusiasts not only does Brittany offer you great sailing but also glorious sailing races to watch, like the Obelix Trophy held at Benodet in May. Apart from all the different categories of sailing there’s also rowing and canoeing, either on the sea or down a river, diving, surfing and windsurfing. There are many other activities available such as; horse riding trails over the hills and through the forests, golf, fishing and cycling.
Cities and towns
Brest – Commercial and naval port.
Rennes – Region’s capital and home to the Brittany museum. In and around Rennes you can rent holiday accommodation to suit all budgets.
Quimper – This town has a stunning Gothic Cathedral and many museums worth a visit.
Vennes – A medieval town with many interesting old streets around the Cathedral.
St Cast – Large popular seaside resort with 7 beaches and stunning walks along the cliffs. Stay in a villa rental only a short way from these beautiful beaches to make the most out of your holiday.
Lambelle – Renowned for its national stud farm at its centre, which organises tours for visitors. There are plenty of vacation rentals in this region of France.
Dinan - Beautiful medieval town with ancient ramparts and castle.
Other towns worth visiting for shopping, restaurants, bars, and a wide choice of holiday accommodation are Lorient, Morlaix, St-Brieuc, Dinard, St-Malo, Roscoff, Morgat, Auray, Erquy, Vannes, Vitre, Paimpol, Quiberon and Chateaulin.
Travel
The main airports are Rennes, Brest and Nantes. Take the ferry from the U.K. directly to Caen, St Malo and Roscoff in Brittany. Catch a high-speed train (TGV) from Paris to Renne, Brest or Quimper.
Rent a perfect holiday home in Brittany, by searching through the large selection on Rent Property Direct and enjoy an unforgettable holiday in France.