Pick up your rental car at the airport (following the instructions you'll receive before your departure) and hit the road. If you follow the green line on the sidewalk (La ligne verte), it will lead you to the most significant landmarks, art installations, and hidden corners without you needing to stare at a map too much. 

I can recommend this trip to young couples, individuals, or groups of a more advanced age – the routes are not demanding at all. Even families with children are welcome. Keep in mind that any public transport tickets, museum or monument entrance fees, and parking are not included in the trip. I don't give specific restaurant tips because that's a matter of taste, and I highly recommend using the advice and ratings you can find here. Have an amazing trip and enjoy the experiences! 

An impressive medieval castle with ramparts right in the city center. You can walk into the courtyard for free and stroll along the castle walls, which offer a beautiful view of the city. If you want to head inside, check the current opening hours HERE. There is no need to book tickets in advance, but if you'd like a guided tour, I recommend using the booking system HERE. Inside, you'll find the Museum of the history of Nantes, with plenty of rooms mapping the city's history, the reign of the Dukes of Brittany, the era of the slave trade and maritime overseas commerce, all the way to the industrial revolution and the present day. 

The historic center is right next to the castle to the southwest, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and dozens of cafes and restaurants. Start your exploration of the district at Place du Bouffay. You'll recognize it easily by the famous bronze statue of a man standing with one foot on a stone pedestal while the other steps freely into the void: Éloge du pas de côté (translated as In Praise of the Sidestep).

Right in the heart of the Bouffay district (on Rue de la Bâclerie), head over to the traditional crêperie Au Vieux Quimper.

Housed in a 15th-century historic building, it’s one of the most famous spots in Nantes. You can try their traditional savory buckwheat galettes, sweet crêpes with homemade salted caramel, and wash it all down with some fresh Breton cider.

In the former shipyards on the Loire River, an incredible project by artists and engineers has been created, featuring these attractions: 

• Le Grand Éléphant (The Giant Elephant): A 12-meter-tall mechanical elephant made of wood and steel that walks along the embankment, trumpets, and sprays water at onlookers.
• Galerie des Machines: An exhibition hall full of other mechanical creatures (giant ants, birds, spiders), where guides demonstrate how they operate.
• Carrousel des Mondes Marins: A three-story carousel of fantastic underwater beings and sea monsters.

An unforgettable experience for both adults and children. 

Megalithic alignments in Carnac (UNESCO) - free entry. 

This is a mystery older than the Egyptian pyramids (4,500 to 3,000 BC). More than 3,000 stone monoliths (menhirs) are arranged in incredibly precise, parallel rows stretching for several kilometers. The largest stones weigh dozens of tons, and the tallest ones measure over 6 meters. How people without knowledge of metal, the wheel, or pulleys managed to extract these boulders from granite massifs, drag them to the site, and stand them vertically with such absolute precision remains a prehistoric technological marvel. Locals in the past couldn't explain the giant stone avenues. And so, a beautiful Breton legend about Saint Cornély, the patron saint of cattle, was born: 

When Saint Cornély was pursued by a pagan Roman legion, he fled toward the sea. Upon reaching the coast, he realized he had nowhere to run – in front of him was only the sea, and behind him thousands of Roman soldiers. Cornély turned, raised his hand to the sky, and asked God for help. At that moment, all the Roman soldiers turned to stone on the spot. And so, today, the stone rows in Carnac are nothing less than an entire army of Roman legionnaires frozen in time. 

Scientists are still scratching their heads today about what happened back then. As a result, several theories have emerged: 

• Giant space observatory: Similar to other megalithic structures, the rows likely had astronomical significance. The stone lines were aligned to point in the direction of the sunrise and sunset during the summer and winter solstices or equinoxes. For prehistoric farmers, it was a giant "calendar" that told them when to sow and when to harvest. 
• Sacred processional paths: Today, many lean toward the idea that it was a religious and ritual center. The stone avenues could have served as corridors for ceremonial processions to honor ancestors, spirits, or nature deities. 
• Symbol of territory and power: Building something so monumental required the labor of thousands of people over generations. It could have been a way for a powerful tribe to show neighboring groups their strength and claim to a given territory. 

Tip 1: If you want to enjoy the mystical atmosphere of the place, come here the next day early in the morning at sunrise or in the evening light, when the mist from the sea permeates the stone rows.

Tip 2: For nature conservation reasons and the threat of erosion, the main menhir fields (especially Ménec and Kermario) are fenced off during the peak summer season and can be admired from walkways along them or from an observation tower. However, if you want to walk between the stones without fences in their full glory, visit Carnac during the off-season from October to April, when the gates to the fields are open to everyone for free!

A small but incredibly charming village. The old part of Plouharnel is called Vieux Bourg: a picturesque corner with fortified stone houses, thatched-roof cottages (chaumière), and the Notre-Dame-des-Fleurs chapel. An ideal spot for a coffee or dessert. If you see yourself more on the cliffs or in the waves and sand, take a walk along the coast after visiting the village center. Head along the Chemin des Douaniers to a small beach and back the same way (1.2 km there and 1.2 km back, 45 minutes total).

• You can find the route here.

Today you'll be staying in this charming port town. Thanks to its beautiful beaches and unique climate, Quiberon is nicknamed "Little Florida." It was originally an island. Since the 11th century, it has been connected to the mainland by an extremely narrow sandy isthmus (tombolo), which is only 40 meters wide at its narrowest point. Bonne nuit. 

Take your time this morning. If you didn't do it yesterday, wander around the Port Haliguen harbor. You'll experience its relaxed, typical French seaside pace. The town doesn't really wake up until after 9 a.m. Undisturbed, head over to the statues of L’ondine (The Water Nymph) and Le pêcheur (The Fisherman). According to old European and French maritime legends, ondines are water spirits that live in lakes, rivers, and seas. They deeply crave a human soul and love, which they can only obtain by marrying a mortal man. The legend behind these two statues tells of an impossible love (amour impossible):

While working at sea, a fisherman fell in love with a translucent creature of the waves – a water nymph. The ondine returned his love, but they remain forever apart. If the fisherman were to jump into the sea after her, he would drown. If the ondine were to permanently come ashore to him, she would lose her magical essence and die. They are thus condemned for all eternity to only gaze longingly at each other across the sea surface that both connects and separates them.

A new "modern legend" has gradually emerged among tourists and locals alike. It is said that if you touch the statue of the Ondine (or stroke her hips or back), it will bring you a safe return from the sea and love in your life.

On the other hand, if you want to experience the morning buzz, head from Port Haliguen to the center of Quiberon to the Halles de Quiberon market. It’s lively there from 7:30 a.m., with vendors selling freshly caught fish, oysters, cheeses, and local vegetables.

Option B (La Côte Sauvage - wild coast): Start on the western side of the peninsula at the Beg er Coalennec viewpoint, by the heart-shaped Menhirs de Beg-er-Goh-Lannec, and continue north through Pointe de Scouro, Pointe de Kergroix, Arche de Port Blanc, Maison de douaniers, and Beg en Aud all the way to Plage du Fozo. 

The route is 17 km long and will take you 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete.  

• Route on maps.

You'll be rewarded with views of granite cliffs, rock arches, and wild scenery. If a photo with the stone heart (and your own warm one) is enough for you, you can simply drive here by car. 

After a half-hour drive, you'll find yourself at the Kerzerho Megalithic Alignments. Unlike at Carnac, you'll appreciate the access to the stones, which are free of fences. Admission to Kerzerho is free year-round, and you can walk directly among the menhirs, touch them, and soak up their mystical atmosphere. This complex includes some of the tallest free-standing menhirs in the entire region. In a small branching row stand the so-called "Giants of Kerzerho" – giant stone monoliths, three of which reach heights of over 6 meters. One of them is a massive fallen block known as the Table du sacrifice (Sacrificial Table). The entire megalithic system is enormous. It stretches from west to east for over 2.7 kilometers and consists of about 1,100 preserved menhirs (in the 19th century, archaeologists counted over 5,000 standing and fallen). In the main section by the parking lot, it forms an alley made up of up to 10 parallel rows.

A drive of just under 2 hours awaits us to the charming port town of Audierne [pronounced od-yern]. We will stay here for 2 nights. The town retains a wonderfully authentic atmosphere, and its importance lies in being the main "base" for exploring one of France's most dramatic and famous natural wonders – Pointe du Raz, where we will head tomorrow. Ferries sail year-round from the Audierne harbor (specifically from the Sainte-Evette pier) to the Île de Sein – an extremely flat, wind-swept island with no cars, surrounded by dangerous reefs and lighthouses. The crossing itself is an experience, as the boat sails through the legendary and feared Raz de Sein strait. 

For centuries, Audierne was a renowned fishing port. The town is particularly famous in France for catching sea bass (bar de ligne – caught traditionally with a rod and line, which guarantees the highest meat quality). The Quai Jean Jaurès waterfront is lined with classic stone houses belonging to tanners and shipowners from the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as numerous fish restaurants and crêperies. So don't hesitate, and definitely go for some sea bass for dinner. If you see the term "Bar de ligne" on the menu, it means the fish was caught traditionally with a rod (not in a net). Bon appétit! 

If you're in the mood for a swim, there is a vast beach, the Grande Plage de Trescadec, with fine white sand right at the entrance to the harbor. It is lined with a characteristic small lighthouse and old villas from the late 19th century, making it a great place to relax. So, if you still have a moment to spare for a swim, take the opportunity. Either today or tomorrow. 

We will spend the morning at Pointe du Raz [point dü ra], a legendary, wild, and most dramatic cape in France, which forms the westernmost tip of the Breton department of Finistère. For the French, it has the same iconic significance as Capo di Leuca does for Italians or Land's End for the Scots. The dark granite cliffs rise 72 meters above the sea, and the waves crash against the rocks with incredible force. The sea below the cliff is among the most dangerous maritime stretches in the world. Strong ocean currents and tidal waves collide here. Hundreds of ships have been wrecked here in the past. A local Breton proverb says:
“Who sees the Raz, sees their death. Who has not traversed the Raz, does not know fear.”

If you look from the cliff into the sea, you will see the legendary La Vieille (The Old Woman) lighthouse from 1887 on a solitary rock amidst the raging waves. Until 1995, lighthouse keepers lived there in incredibly harsh conditions; today, it is fully automated. On the very top of the cape stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, the Protectress, made of white marble, created in memory of all the sailors who lost their lives in these waters.

Access to the nature, cliffs, and viewpoints is completely free 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can get refreshments at the restaurant right by the parking lot.

The visitor center (Maison de la Pointe du Raz) will provide you with a paper map of the area. The center is usually open from 10 AM - 7 PM (July-August) and 10 AM - 6 PM (April - June); check current opening hours HERE.

Parking fees (approximate):

Passenger car: approx. €6.50 – €8 per day (flat rate regardless of whether you park for an hour or the whole day).

Current information HERE.

The length and type of paths at Pointe du Raz vary depending on which route you choose to tour the cape. The terrain ranges from comfortable promenades (the direct path to the cape) to purely mountain-like rocky trails (the GR34 coastal path - Sentier des Douaniers).

If you want to go for a hike, which I definitely recommend, expect the tour length to be between 10 - 12 km and take about 3.5 - 4.5 hours. Recommended footwear:

If you stick to the main central path, any regular sneakers or even sandals will suffice.

If you want to walk the coastal path along the cliffs (GR34), low hiking boots or sturdy sneakers with a good treaded sole are almost a necessity so you don't slip on the rocks.

This is a route for us hiking enthusiasts: Walk around Pointe du Raz, head down to the famous surfing beach Baie des Trépassés, and climb up to the neighboring, less touristy (but just as stunning) cape Pointe du Van with the romantic St-They chapel. From there, head back to your car through the inland loop. This alternative is longer (16.5 km - 5 hours), but it will fully fill your day.

• Route in maps  

Of course, the route can also be shortened by turning back at Baie des Trépassés. This alternative comes out to 8 kilometers and 2.5 hours of walking.

• Route in maps     

After breakfast, we'll head towards Douarnenez. On the way, I recommend stopping for a coffee in Pont-Croix, a small, fairy-tale town just a 10-minute drive from Audierne. It's listed as one of the Petites Cités de Caractère (Small Towns of Character) and, unlike the coastal ports, it has an amazing, almost untouched medieval atmosphere. Thanks to its location on a hill above the Goyen River, it offers a combination of historic architecture and beautiful natural views. It's well worth spending 2-3 hours here just getting lost in its cobbled streets. 

Collégiale Notre-Dame-de-Roscudon (Collegiate Church) - a 13th-century landmark; inside, you'll find a beautiful Romanesque-Gothic arcade, polychrome wooden statues, and an impressive carved altar. 

Cobbled medieval streets “Les Ruelles” and historic houses - this stroll through the old town is good for the soul. The town is famous for its narrow, steep cobbled streets (called ruelles or goreds) that wind down from the church to the river. Along them stand perfectly preserved stone houses from the 16th to 18th centuries, decorated with blooming hydrangeas and romantic nooks.

Maison du Marquisat (Museum of Life in Cap Sizun) - A 16th-century mansion that now serves as a museum. It offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the inhabitants of the Cap Sizun region in past centuries. You can see period furniture, traditional Breton costumes (coiffes), tools, and old crafts.

Old port on the Goyen River (Le Vieux Port) - Down below the town lies a small, historic port on the Goyen estuary. Trade ships used to arrive here, but today it's a peaceful spot perfect for relaxing and taking a walk along the water. 

Artists' houses and studios - In the 19th and 20th centuries, Pont-Croix attracted painters and artists enchanted by the local light and tranquility. Even today, you can find small private galleries, woodcarving or pottery workshops, and art studios in the narrow streets.

Tip: If you're lucky enough to visit on a Thursday morning, there are traditional Breton markets here full of local cheeses, crepes, and seafood.

The trip to Douarnenez will take us about half an hour. Park for free at one of the larger parking lots at Place Stalingrad. From there, we'll head into the center. We'll enjoy the place without rushing and dive into the maritime history and Celtic myths. I'll tell you one of them right at the start: 

The Bay of Douarnenez (Baie de Douarnenez) is the setting for one of the most famous Breton legends – the story of the sunken city of Ys. In the 5th century, the benevolent King Gradlon ruled here. The city of Ys lay below sea level and was protected by a massive dike with a gate. The king wore the only key to the gate around his neck at all times. The king's daughter, Dahut, led a life of extravagance and sin. One day, she was deceived by a mysterious stranger (the devil himself in disguise), who persuaded her to steal the key from her sleeping father and open the gate. The ocean immediately flooded the city. King Gradlon fled on his magic horse, but to save his life, he had to cast his daughter Dahut into the sea waves with a heavy heart. Dahut turned into a mermaid (siren). Local people believe that on calm days, the ringing of the bells of the sunken churches of the town of Ys can be heard from the depths of the bay.

This is one of the best maritime museums in France. It is unique because part of the exhibition is on land, while another part consists of several historic ships moored directly on the water in the Port-Rhu harbor. You can board several historic vessels (tugboats, towboats, fishing boats) and explore them from the hold to the helm. Plan for about 2.5 hours for your visit. You can find current opening hours and ticket prices HERE. In the summer season, it's worth getting an e-ticket in advance; you'll get a QR code ticket that allows for faster entry without waiting at the box office. The museum is closed on Mondays. 

I recommend having fresh fish or oysters for lunch at Port du Rosmeur (a traditional sardine port with colorful house facades). Other ports worth seeing are: Port-Rhu and Tréboul - they have colorful quays lined with cafes, restaurants, and workshops. 

In the early evening, I recommend a walk along the Sentier des Plomarc'h trail – a beautiful natural path above the sea with views of the entire bay and old Gallo-Roman ruins. From Douarnenez, head east along the marked hiking trail Chemin des Douaniers, GR 38. The route will lead you to the Les Plomarc'h archaeological site. The entire area is freely accessible. It's a wonderful natural area with restored old fishermen's cottages and the remains of Gallo-Roman vats where the famous garum fish sauce was produced in ancient times. Public paths lead around the vats and ancient ruins, and information boards with explanations are installed at the monuments. There is a great view of the entire bay from here. The whole route is about 3 km long round trip and you can walk it in 1 hour without stopping. 

• Route on maps

Expect a 1.5-hour drive in the morning to the parish close in Guimiliau. A visit will take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on how much its history pulls you in. This collection of religious buildings will tell you far more about the Bretons than dozens of textbooks ever could. The complex grew thanks to the prosperous linen and cloth trade, as individual villages competed to see who could build the most magnificent parish close. It is a unique sacred complex from the 16th and 17th centuries, featuring a famous monumental calvary with over 200 sculptures dating from 1581–1588. The calvary is one of the most beautiful in all of Brittany. It depicts 37 biblical scenes, with the figure of the sinful Katel Kollet—being dragged to hell by devils—attracting a lot of attention. She was a maid who flirted and danced young men to their deaths, and now, right there for all to see, the devils are dragging her straight to hell. A charming artistic naivety meant to frighten pious medieval villagers. When creating these calvaries (artistic depictions of the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth) and church statues, local sculptors and carvers were able to imbue their saints with a peculiar sense of familiarity toward every authority, including the church.

• The original bell tower dates back to 1530, while the interior offers richly decorated woodwork, an organ, and an elaborate baptismal font. 
• The ossuary and funeral chapel: These structures complete the enclosed cemetery area, which served as the center of the village's religious and social life. 

The statues of biblical heroes at the calvary in the town of St. Thégonnec look more like ordinary village neighbors than legendary saints. The Bretons were never submissive and never bowed their heads to anyone, so the statues here resemble ordinary village neighbors rather than saints and legendary martyrs—and that's not just in their faces, but also in their clothing and props. Saint Fiacre has a spade and the focused face of a gardener, Eloi is a hearty blacksmith with a leather apron and a massive beard, Cornely watches over cute piglets, Livertin holds his head, even though everyone here knows he willingly accepts prayers against migraines, and Ronan can't stand bickering women. There is even one saint to whom you can address a plea for the death of an evil person who has harmed you. But beware! The request must be true and honest in every respect, otherwise the punishment can turn directly against the petitioner themselves. So, no revenge because "they have fatter sheep than I do"; it must be genuine desperation that leads you to this almost terrifying prayer. The Entrance Gate (Porte triomphale) to the courtyard dates from 1587 and is made of granite. It is decorated with lanterns, pillars, and statues of St. Paul and St. Thégonnec. It symbolizes the transition from the secular world to the sacred world.

The Monumental Calvary (Calvaire) was created in 1610 (it is one of the last great Breton calvaries). It depicts scenes from Christ's passion and crucifixion. Among the figures under the cross, you will find Saint Thégonnec himself standing by a cart to which a wolf is harnessed. According to Breton folk tradition, Saint Thégonnec was building a church in his parish. To transport heavy stones, granite blocks, and building materials, he used his faithful and hardworking donkey, which pulled a loaded cart every day. One day, while the donkey was in the forest or out to pasture, a hungry wild wolf attacked and devoured it. When Saint Thégonnec discovered this, he did not succumb to anger or revenge. Instead, he called the wolf over and, teaching it a lesson in divine justice, said: "Since you ate my helper, you must now do his work yourself." The saint tamed the wild beast, harnessed it to the cart in place of the donkey, and forced it to pull the heavy cart of stones for the church construction. Under the saint's influence, the wolf calmed down, submitted, and served faithfully until the entire building was completed. This legend beautifully illustrates the typical Breton pragmatism and approach to saints—"something for something." In folk imagination, a saint was not just an unreachable deity in heaven, but a clever and practical neighbor who could handle every predicament and outsmart even wild nature.

• Church of Notre-Dame (Eglise Notre-Dame). An impressive building combining Renaissance and Baroque styles. It stands out for its high Renaissance bell tower. The interior of the church is exceptionally rich. You will see a beautifully carved Baroque pulpit from 1683, polychromed wooden altars, and a monumental organ.
• Ossuary (Ossuaire). A Renaissance-style building from 1576–1589 with Corinthian columns. It served to store skeletal remains when the graves in the church became full. Inside the ossuary is a crypt with an impressive Baroque depiction of the Entombment of Christ (Mise au tombeau) with life-sized figures carved from oak. There is also a safe here containing the parish treasure. It holds gold and silver bars and can be found at the far end of this somewhat gruesome building.

The last leg of today's trip will be a drive of about 15 km to Morlaix, where we'll be staying. If we still have enough time and energy, we'll head over to the city's main landmark, the Morlaix Viaduct. 

This is a monumental granite railway viaduct from 1861–1864. It reaches a height of 58 meters and a length of 292 meters. It was built to bridge a deep valley and connect the railway line from Paris to Brest. The lower level (the first row of arches) is accessible to pedestrians free of charge. I really recommend this experience. You can reach the viaduct from the center by climbing stairs (e.g., from Rue Ange-de-Guernisac via the Venelle aux Prêtres alley). From the lower level, there is a magnificent view of the old town's roofs, church towers, and the nearby harbor. Above your head, trains, including TGV high-speed trains, still regularly pass over the upper level. 

What else is there to see? Morlaix is a charming town spread across three hills, with a rich history tied to seafaring, as well as the linen and tobacco trades. I definitely recommend the following: 

Houses with interior passageways (Maisons à Pondalez): A unique architectural style of 16th-century half-timbered houses found only in Morlaix. Inside these multi-story homes, you'll find a tall, central covered courtyard with a fireplace and a beautifully carved spiral staircase with walkways (pondalez) connecting the front and back of the house. The most famous accessible/museum pieces are Maison de la Duchesse Anne on Rue du Mur and Maison dite à lanterne on Grand'Rue. 

The old town is full of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and romantic corners. Since it sits in a valley and on hillsides, it is crisscrossed by many steep stairway alleys (venelles) that connect the upper and lower parts of the town and offer great views. Getting a bit carried away by history will be worth it. 

Former Tobacco Manufactory (La Manufacture des Tabacs): An extensive, heritage-listed 18th-century industrial complex located by the port. Today, it serves as a cultural and social hub (you'll find art galleries, cafes, and the Espace des Sciences museum here). The courtyards and public spaces are free. Admission to the museum is charged. You can learn more about the museum HERE. If this type of museum appeals to you, believe me, you won't regret it. You can look forward to:  

Mechanical Mills (Les Moulins): The heart and jewel of the museum – a historic three-story wooden structure for grinding tobacco, dating back to 1871, which is registered as a national cultural monument.

• People and Machines (Des machines et des Hommes): An exhibition dedicated to the memory of thousands of workers (including women and children) who worked here for centuries. You will see restored historical machines for processing tobacco leaves and packaging products.
• Manufactory Architecture: The story of how an 18th-century industrial palace became today's scientific and cultural space.  
• Exhibition on the history of tobacco from America to Europe – its journey from medicinal use through industry to a harmful habit.

This oldest megalithic burial site in Europe dates back to around 4,800 BC, making it older than the Egyptian pyramids or England's Stonehenge. The giant stone mound measures 72 meters in length, up to 25 meters in width, and contains 11 separate burial chambers connected by narrow passages. In the mid-20th century, the structure was unfortunately used as a private quarry for gravel. Before the blasting was stopped, part of the inner chambers was exposed, which ultimately led to its scientific exploration and preservation. According to Breton folk legends, these mysterious stone mounds were built by giants (Korrigans or Lutins). It was believed that they guarded huge treasures beneath the heavy granite slabs in the passages, which would only open once a year during midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Admission is charged. You can find up-to-date information on prices and opening hours HERE. Allow 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the tour. 

Boat graveyard 

We'll move on to the traditional town of Plougasnou, 8 km away. Just like throughout northern Brittany, there's a very pronounced difference between high and low tide here, which fundamentally changes the landscape and the look of the harbors throughout the day. That's why one place you shouldn't miss is the Cimetière de bateaux du Diben (Boat Graveyard). In the sheltered bay near the shipyard in Le Diben (Rue de l’Abbesse), old wooden fishing boats rest (including the famous wrecks of the Kalinka and Étréom), which lie directly on the exposed, seaweed-covered seabed during low tide. It's a very photogenic and impressive spot. 

Parking directly on Rue de l’Abbesse is not possible, so please park at the bend of the bay. 

Plougasnou

When arriving in Plougasnou along the D46 road, you will pass through sections lined with farmhouses and fields where you will see large artichoke leaves with a bluish-grey tint and large purple buds or flowers (if they bloom and aren't harvested in time). Growing them is an agricultural tradition here. The harvest happens in several waves: May-July and September-October. If you hit it during the harvest, you'll witness the intensive manual picking. The globe artichoke, called 'artichaut' in French [pronounced ar-ti-sho], is essentially the bud of a giant thistle. It has a subtly nutty flavor with a slightly bitter, sweet undertone. During the summer and autumn season, you'll find whole boiled artichokes served as a cold appetizer with homemade vinaigrette in local restaurants and bistros (e.g., in the port of Le Diben or in the center of Plougasnou). In Breton crêperies, you'll commonly come across savory buckwheat pancakes (galettes) that have artichoke heart pieces in the filling combined with Breton cheese, ham, or cream. Every Tuesday, a traditional market takes place in the center of Plougasnou, where you can taste fresh oysters, fish, Breton pancakes (crêpes and galettes), or local cider.  

Pink Granite Coast. Your final stop and the most beautiful part of today is the Côte de Granite Rose - the Pink Granite Coast. If you're arriving in the evening, save the coast for the next morning, as it's worth taking your time. Although, the best light for photographing the pink granite is usually in the late afternoon and at sunset.

Head towards Ploumanac’h and decide which way you want to go once you're there. There are several routes depending on how much time you have. 

OPTION A: The most famous and highly recommended one is the Customs Trail (Sentier des Douaniers, part of the GR34 long-distance route). 

The classic and most beautiful route leads from Perros-Guirec to Ploumanac'h (or vice versa). This is the iconic "highlight" of the entire coast, where you'll find the most famous and photogenic pink rock formations.

From Plage de Trestraou beach (in the town of Perros-Guirec) to the port of Ploumanac'h or Plage Saint-Guirec beach.

Length: Approx. 5 km one way (about 10 km round trip, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours of walking)

• Route on maps   

What you will see along the way:

• The pink granite lighthouse, Phare de Men Ruz
• Bizarre granite rock formations shaped by the sea and wind (e.g., Napoleon's Hat)
• Views of the protected Sept-Îles archipelago
• The fairy-tale neo-Gothic manor on a small island, Château de Costaérès

If you head further to Plage Saint-Guirec, there is a small niche in the sea on a granite pedestal with a statue of Saint Guirec. At high tide, the statue is surrounded by seawater; at low tide, you can reach it on dry land. In the past, single girls used to go there and stick pins into the saint's stone nose—if the pin stayed, they were supposed to get married within a year. Hard to say how they knew which pin belonged to whom. 

Practical tip: In the summer season, you can walk the trail in one direction and return to your car using the local free bus / shuttle. Timetables are HERE (section Transports, parkings et mobilités, Les Navettes estivales gratuites). During the season (July–August), you can download a complete flyer/map in PDF with an overview of routes, stops, and service frequency (usually running every 15–30 minutes). 

Attention: The entire pink granite area is protected, and you are not allowed to walk off the marked trails.

Once you are ready to leave, count on a drive of over two hours. If you decide to go straight to Saint-Malo without stopping in Dinan, you will have more time to explore the pirate city and eat oysters in Cancale. If you are an early bird and don't want to miss out on fairytale romance, then a stop in Dinan is the right choice. You should have enough time for lunch and to check out the town. Whatever you don't finish today can possibly be left for tomorrow. 

For many people, Dinan is a true favorite in the entire region. It is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in France. Cobblestone streets, massive walls, over 130 half-timbered houses (maisons à pans de bois), some of which date back to the 15th century. In half a day, you can manage to walk through all the essential places without rushing. 

Start at the river port (Le Port de Dinan) - a beautiful, quiet place with boats, cafes, and restaurants along the water. Then head up to Rue du Petit-Fort, which passes through the Porte du Jerzual gate (formerly part of the fortifications) and flows into Rue du Jerzual - the iconic steep alley that is the most famous in town. In the picturesque half-timbered houses that line it, there are art glass, leather, painting, and carving workshops. Then take the Rue du Rempart to the Sainte-Catherine Tower (Tour Sainte-Catherine), which offers a breathtaking panoramic view down to the port and the Rance River. From there, walk through the English Gardens along the accessible path on the ramparts south to Dinan Castle (Château de Dinan). The route leads along raised stone walkways and adjacent promenades along the southern and southeastern parts of the fortifications. The complete Dinan walls form a circuit around the entire city, but some sections to the west are privately owned or inaccessible. The route from Jardin des Anglais through Porte Saint-Louis to the Castle (Château) offers the most accessible section with the most beautiful views. 

• Route on maps  

From there, you can return to the historic core, the so-called Intra-Muros, via any alley and let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the old town. If you decide to tour the castle, it offers a modern exhibition on medieval life and warfare, where you can walk through period Gothic halls, a chapel, and an underground secret passage. During the tour, you will visit an interactive armory where you can try out replicas of historical weapons and armor. Moreover, the observation terrace on the roof of the main tower offers a stunning 360° view of the entire city and the Rance River valley. More information about the castle HERE.

Transfer to accommodation in Saint-Malo and sightseeing. Saint-Malo is one of the most popular towns in Brittany. It is famous for its pirate history, massive fortifications, and the extreme difference between high and low tide.

The heart of the town is the historic center of Intra-Muros (literally "within the walls"). It was largely destroyed during World War II, but was masterfully reconstructed to its original historical appearance.

A walk along the ramparts (Les Remparts): Accessible stone walls from the 12th to 18th centuries run the entire perimeter of the old town. They offer wonderful views of the cobbled streets on one side and the open ocean, beaches, and fortresses on the other. Walking the entire circuit of the ramparts takes 45 - 60 minutes. 

• Château de Saint-Malo: A massive 15th-century castle located at the entrance to the old town, which today houses the town hall and a museum of history and seafaring.

In the bay directly opposite the ramparts, several rocky islets with fortresses stand out. At high tide, they are surrounded by the sea, but at low tide, you can reach them on foot via a sandy path:

• Fort National: A fortress from 1689 designed by the royal architect Vauban to protect the town from the English fleet.
• Île Grand-Bé: An islet that houses the grave of the famous French romantic writer and Saint-Malo native, François-René de Chateaubriand.
• Fort de la Conchée: A fortress located further out at sea (accessible only by boat)

Saint-Malo experiences some of the largest tides in Europe (the difference between water levels reaches up to 13 meters).

Breakwaters (Les Pieux): Along the Plage du Sillon beach, you will see thousands of massive oak trunks driven into the sand. They serve as breakwaters that protected the ramparts from destructive waves during storms.

Seawater Pool (Piscine de Bon-Secours): Right on the beach below the ramparts is a historic seawater pool with a diving board. At low tide, water remains for swimming; at high tide, it disappears beneath the sea level.

For centuries, Saint-Malo was an autonomous stronghold of corsairs – pirates in the service of the French King (the most famous being Robert Surcouf or Jacques Cartier, who set sail from Saint-Malo and discovered Canada).

Corsair's House (Demeure de Corsaire): A historic mansion from 1725 (Hôtel d'Asfeld) where you can explore secret passages, wine cellars, and pirate-era weaponry.

Etoile du Roy: A replica of an 18th-century three-masted frigate that can be boarded often moors in the harbor.

Besides its monuments, Saint-Malo is renowned for its food:

Jean-Yves Bordier Butter: Considered one of the best butters in the world. In their shop in Intra-Muros, you can taste flavored butters (with sea salt, seaweed, yuzu, or chili). Stop by the Maison Bordier butcher and dairy shop for a tasting!

Seafood and pancakes: The town is full of great crêperies (savory galettes and sweet crêpes) and restaurants offering fresh oysters and seafood.

Just 16 km from Saint-Malo, the ultimate gastronomic experience awaits you. The best and most famous place for oysters in Cancale is undoubtedly the Marché aux Huîtres de Cancale (Oyster Market). The market is located right at the end of the promenade by the lighthouse and the port of La Houle. You'll find several stalls run by local producers here. Choose your oyster size (sizes are labeled from N°0 to N°4, with N°3 or N°2 being the perfect middle ground), and the seller will freshly shuck them for you on the spot, arrange them on a plastic tray, and add half a lemon. With the tray in hand, sit right on the stone wall overlooking the sea. After eating, it's a local tradition to toss the empty shells down onto the beach, where they create giant layers of oyster shells.

The best prices for miles around – a dozen fresh oysters will cost you about €6–10 depending on the size.

Tip: If you'd like a glass of chilled white wine (e.g., Muscadet) with your oysters, you can buy wine to-go in plastic cups at the neighboring cafes and stalls.

If you prefer a more civilized way to eat your oysters (and more), head to the waterfront (Quai Gambetta). The entire street along the harbor is lined with great seafood restaurants. They serve large seafood platters (Plateau de fruits de mer) which, besides oysters, also contain shrimp, crab, and whelks. A great alternative to oysters is mussels in wine (moules marinières). 

The highlight of the evening: Le Mont Saint-Michel Abbey. 

• Leave yourself plenty of time for the drive - at least 2 hours. 
• The gates of the abbey (Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel) open at 7:30 PM for summer evening tours (Les Nocturnes).
• Evening entry to the site is possible until 11:00 PM, with the entire monument closing at midnight (00:00). It is officially recommended to head to the abbey after dark (around 9:30 PM–10:00 PM depending on the month), when the light and sound installations in the Gothic halls and courtyards stand out the best. 
• Parking: Passenger cars (P5, P6, P7, P10, P11, P12, P13): Parking lots P10, P11, or P12 (for example, Parking P11 voitures) in Beauvoir are mainly used for passenger cars. On-site, guide signs will direct you to the nearest available section. A reduced evening rate applies for evening parking after 6:30 PM/7:00 PM. The Le Passeur shuttle bus ride is included in the parking fee. You don't pay any extra tickets on the bus. The boarding point is right by the parking lots next to the tourist center (Centre d'Information Touristique). You will also find parking machines there to pay for parking. When entering through the parking gate, take a parking ticket (entry ticket with a barcode/QR code) from the stand. Keep it with you. Do not leave the ticket in the car; take it with you. When you return by bus from Mont-Saint-Michel to the parking lot, go to the automatic payment terminal at the tourist center before you drive away. Insert the ticket, the terminal will calculate the amount (based on the length of stay or the evening rate), and you pay. Insert the paid ticket into the terminal at the exit gate, which will then open. The parking machines accept card payments (contactless and inserting the card) as well as cash (banknotes and coins). 
• The drop-off station is on the access bridge, about 350 meters before the gates of Mont Saint-Michel. The buses run in a continuous cycle very frequently – during the summer season and evening events, approximately every 5 to 12 minutes. In the summer, they run from 7:30 AM to midnight (00:00), so you can easily get back to your car after the screenings end. 
• Current information, opening hours, and details can be found on the official websites:
• Evening projections at the abbey: Nocturnes du Mont Saint-Michel or the official website Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel
• Parking and shuttle transport: Bienvenue au Mont-Saint-Michel or Normandie Tourisme.

Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey (Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel), an architectural miracle, already nicknamed "La Merveille" (The Wonder) in the Middle Ages. The evening light show in its interiors is one of the most beautiful experiences you can take away from here. The monastery was founded as early as 708 based on the apparition of the Archangel Michael. The structure on a steep granite rock represents an exceptional feat of engineering. You can learn more about the abbey HERE. 

The walk works with a play of light, color projections, video mapping, and special sound effects that resonate with the thousand-year-old stone architecture. Unlike the daytime hustle and bustle, the abbey has an intimate, mystical, and even magical atmosphere in the evening. The walk usually takes about 1 hour. 

After your evening experience at Mont-Saint-Michel, treat yourself to a sleep-in. Afterwards, check if you've managed to fit in all the activities you wanted to do in the area (visiting Saint-Malo, Dinan, and Cancale). Plan your return to Nantes with a stop in Rennes along the way. The trip from Saint-Malo to Rennes will take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic, and the journey from Rennes to Nantes takes about 1.5 hours. A toll-free four-lane expressway, the N137, runs from Rennes to Nantes. 

Rennes [pronounced: ren] has one of the highest concentrations of medieval half-timbered houses in all of France. Walk through the streets of Rue Saint-Michel, Rue Saint-Guillaume, and Place Champ-Jacquet. You will see tall, incredibly tilted, and colorful half-timbered houses from the 16th and 17th centuries. The Portes Mordelaises is a former medieval gate with two towers and a drawbridge, which Breton dukes used to enter the city ceremoniously in the past. If you're craving some peace and quiet, visit one of the most beautiful parks in France, Parc du Thabor - it used to be a Benedictine monastery garden, and today it is a 10-hectare park combining a French garden, an English park, a botanical garden, and a magnificent rose garden with thousands of rose species. A total must-see is Place des Lices square and the cathedral. Saint-Pierre Cathedral looks rather inconspicuous from the outside, but inside you will be surprised by its richly decorated golden interior and marble altar. If you happen to be in Rennes on a Saturday morning, the second largest food market in France takes place on this square. It's a foodie paradise full of oysters, cheeses, cider, and fresh food. 

What to have for a quick lunch? Galette Saucisse: An absolute street food classic and the gastronomic symbol of the city of Rennes. It's a warm grilled pork sausage wrapped in a cold buckwheat crepe (galette). You can buy it at market stalls or from street bistros. 

Your trip ends tomorrow. If you're flying out in the afternoon or evening, use tonight or tomorrow morning to pick up some souvenirs. Here are a few places where you can shop: 

• Passage Pommeraye - a 19th-century covered shopping arcade with a marble staircase and statues. 
• Maison Georges Larnicol: A renowned Breton bakery and chocolate shop. You can buy fresh Kouign-amann cakes, Breton butter cookies (Galettes de Pont-Aven), or caramel candies in gift boxes here. 
• La Trinitaine / Conserverie la Belle-Iloise: Shops specializing in traditional edible souvenirs – canned fish (sardines in designer tins), salted caramel, cider, or beer. 
• Les Machines de l'Île: The shop right in the area of the fantastical world of the giant mechanical elephant and Jules Verne carousel offers great items you won't find anywhere else:
  • Books and illustrations themed around Jules Verne and steampunk art.
  • Wooden puzzles, mechanical toys, posters, t-shirts, and accessories featuring the famous mechanical elephant (Grand Éléphant).
• Château des ducs de Bretagne - traditional and local souvenirs: Local Muscadet wine, Fleur de Sel sea salt from nearby salt pans in Guérande, ciders, and meads. Traditional striped sailor shirts (Marinière) from brands like Saint James or Armor Lux. 

What exactly should you take home from Nantes?

• LU Biscuits (Petit Beurre): The famous butter cookies with serrated edges originate right from Nantes (the former LU factory now houses the Le Lieu Unique cultural center).
• Fleur de Sel from Guérande: Hand-harvested fine sea salt from nearby salt pans.
• Canned Sardines (Belle-Iloise): Stylishly packaged tins of sardines or tuna (e.g., with salted caramel or lemon).
• Muscadet Wine: A crisp, dry white wine from the vineyards surrounding Nantes that pairs perfectly with seafood.

Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Drop off the (refueled) car and head to your gate. Have a pleasant journey home.