Autumn really is the perfect time to head to Brittany – the weather’s still warm, the holiday crowds are gone, and under the flaming autumnal colours, it’s every bit as beautiful. Perfect then for taking in the region’s breathtaking scenery, and soaking up its rich culture, heritage, and tasting its authentic home-grown cuisine. Plus, a host of great value autumn ferry and break offers now make Brittany even more accessible from the south coast ports of Portsmouth and Plymouth.
With its beautiful beaches, beguiling coastal scenery and tranquil seaside resorts, it’s little wonder many Brits consider Brittany first-and-foremost a summer holiday destination. But there’s so much more there than just beaches…
Come to Brittany this autumn and you’ll discover an ancient land, rich in medieval history and imbued with Celtic traditions. You’ll come across lively towns and cities, perfectly preserved and rich in history and heritage. You’ll find a unique region, proud of its identity, and brimming with art and culture. And you’ll taste a rich and distinctive cuisine based on abundant local produce, traditional specialities, and the unique gastronomic flair of Breton chefs.
Try a city stopover in a Brittany’s vibrant capital Rennes with its beautiful medieval buildings and colourful markets. Or head to Quimper, the cultural heart of Brittany with its imposing cathedral, atmospheric old town and museums. Discover the rich heritage of medieval citadel towns like Dinan, Vitré and Vannes. Or if you love the sea, then take time to explore the bustling ports of St Malo, Brest, Concarneau or Lorient, lined with enchanting quaysides and packed with maritime history.
For enchanting little towns, and picture postcard villages, look out for those awarded the title ‘Petite Cité de Caractère’. Visitors’ favourites are Locronan with its exceptionally handsome architecture dating from its time as a centre of trade and weaving, and the exquisite village of Rochefort-en-Terre. Make your way through the narrow streets, past ateliers and workshops, admiring the geranium-bedecked houses along the way. Or for the ultimate in time travel head to Carnac and marvel at the ancient Menhirs.
And then there’s the great outdoors. Blessed by Mother Nature, Brittany’s ever changing landscapes inspire you to get out and explore. Whether you’re looking for colourful moorland and rocky hillsides, or jagged cliffs and coves on the coast, Brittany has something to offer. Why not indulge in a spot of island hopping? The region’s islands and archipelagos make excellent daytrip destinations, and offer a warm microclimate, and flora, fauna and birdlife to admire.
And whether you’re on a bicycle or on foot, navigating the great outdoors is always straightforward and welcoming, crisscrossed by mile upon mile of traffic-free cycle paths and waymarked walking routes. Take to the region’s canal towpaths, quiet country lanes or perhaps tackle the GR34 long-distance walking path that hugs the entire length of Brittany’s coastline all the way round.
But wherever you head, and whatever sights you seek, don’t forget the the region’s food. Brittany is certainly home to the crêpe but there’s so much more to the region than pancakes! When it comes to the finest local produce, Brittany is arguably France’s capital. From Cancale’s oysters to St-Brieuc scallops, from Cornouaille cider to Muscadet wine, discovering Breton food is a mouth-watering adventure.
Discover the real Brittany – just a short and comfortable hop across the Channel either from Portsmouth to St Malo or from Plymouth to Roscoff. And with Brittany Ferries now offering a wide range of autumn ferry-plus-accommodation offers on hotel breaks, gourmet cruises, and cottage holidays, now’s the perfect time to book.
To Discover more of Brittany visit www.brittanyferries.com/brittany
Images: ©Yannick Le Gal | ©Alexandre Lamoureux | ©Emmanuel Berthier
About the Author / Gareth Hargreaves
Gareth looks after all editorial content on 50connect. He is the Swiss Army knife of content ideas and production.
