From the 17th-century ramparts of Saint-Malo to the foodie delights of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, the northeastern part of Brittany’s 1,730 miles of rugged coastline has eight unmissable destinations to tempt visitors at any time of year. Perfect to explore in the comfort of your car, and boasting a well-established cycle network and some breathtaking walking routes, getting around is both simple and an adventure in itself.
Saint-Malo
Founded by Welsh saint Saint-Maclou in the sixth century, Saint-Malo is many people’s first introduction to Brittany. After arriving from Portsmouth on Brittany Ferries’ new aptly-named hybrid-LNG ship Saint-Malo, a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel to France, it’s a relief to find that the walled old town, Intra Muros, is a seven-minute drive from the port. Stroll through narrow streets, once the domain of pirates and explorers, before heading to one of the golden sandy beaches lapped by emerald water. The coast-clinging GR34 “customs officers’ path” and La Vélomaritime take walkers and cyclists farther afield. And if that’s not enough nature for you, head to the Pointe du Grouin for some of the most breathtaking views in the area.
