Where to Stay in Brittany

Types of Accommodations

Staying in a "gîte" while visiting Brittany offers a unique and authentic way to experience the region's local lifestyle and culture. Here's more information about gîtes and other accommodation options in Brittany:

Gîtes

• Definition: A gîte is typically a furnished holiday home available for rent, often located in rural or semi-rural areas. In Brittany, gîtes can range from renovated farmhouses and cottages to barns and mills.

• Experience: Staying in a gîte allows you to immerse yourself in the Breton countryside, often amidst picturesque landscapes. It's an opportunity to live like a local, with the freedom to cook your meals using local produce from nearby markets.

• Features: Gîtes vary widely but typically offer full kitchen facilities, one or more bedrooms, a living area, and sometimes additional amenities like a fireplace, garden, or even a private pool.

• Authenticity: Many gîtes retain traditional Breton architectural features such as stone walls, wooden beams, and fireplaces, adding to the charm and authenticity of your stay.

Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)

• Personal Touch: B&Bs in Brittany often provide a more personal experience, with hosts offering local insights and a home-cooked breakfast, sometimes with homemade products.

• Locations: They are found throughout Brittany, from coastal towns to inland villages, offering a range of settings from historic buildings to modern homes.

Seaside Hotels

• Variety: Seaside hotels in Brittany cater to various preferences, from luxury resorts to family-friendly establishments. They often provide stunning views of the coast and easy access to beaches.

• Amenities: These hotels typically offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, spas, and water sports facilities, making for a comfortable and convenient stay.

Choosing Your Accommodation

• Consider Your Needs: When selecting a gîte, B&B, or hotel, consider factors like location, size, amenities, and budget to find the option that best suits your travel style and needs.

• Book in Advance: Especially during the peak summer season, it's advisable to book your accommodation well in advance to secure your preferred option.

• Explore Online Platforms: Websites like Gîtes de France.

Best Areas to Stay

When visiting Brittany, choosing the right base depends on your interests, whether they lean towards coastal scenery, historical sites, gastronomy, or outdoor activities. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Brittany, each offering its unique attractions and experiences:

Saint-Malo

• Ideal for: Maritime history, coastal walks, and access to Mont Saint-Michel.

• Highlights: The walled city of Saint-Malo is renowned for its picturesque old town, beautiful beaches, and as a gateway to the famous Mont Saint-Michel. It's a great base for exploring the Emerald Coast.

Rennes

• Ideal for: Cultural experiences, historical exploration, and vibrant nightlife.

• Highlights: As the regional capital, Rennes boasts a rich historical center, with timber-framed houses, the impressive Parlement de Bretagne, and numerous museums. It's also known for its lively cultural scene and serves as a great hub for exploring inland Brittany.

Quimper

• Ideal for: Culture, art, and access to the Finistère coast.

• Highlights: Quimper, in the heart of Cornouaille, is known for its Gothic cathedral, medieval quarter, and museums, including the Musée Départemental Breton. The town is also a gateway to the picturesque Finistère coast.

Vannes

• Ideal for: Sailing, island hopping, and medieval architecture.

• Highlights: Situated by the Gulf of Morbihan, Vannes offers access to sailing and boat tours to explore the gulf's islands. The town itself is charming, with well-preserved medieval walls and beautiful gardens.

Dinan

• Ideal for: Medieval history and riverside charm.

• Highlights: Dinan is a beautifully preserved medieval town overlooking the River Rance. Its ramparts, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses make it a delightful place to stay.

Brest

• Ideal for: Maritime adventures and family-friendly attractions.

• Highlights: Brest is a dynamic port city known for its maritime museum, Océanopolis aquarium, and as a starting point for excursions to the remote islands of Ouessant and Molène.

Carnac

• Ideal for: Prehistoric sites and beach holidays.

• Highlights: Famous for its alignments of ancient standing stones, Carnac also offers beautiful beaches, making it perfect for those interested in history and seaside relaxation.

Belle-Île-en-Mer

• Ideal for: Island retreats and natural beauty.

• Highlights: As the largest of Brittany's islands, Belle-Île offers dramatic coastal cliffs, picturesque ports, and sandy beaches. It's an excellent choice for a peaceful island getaway.

Perros-Guirec and the Pink Granite Coast

• Ideal for: Stunning coastal landscapes and hiking.

• Highlights: This area is renowned for its unique pink granite rock formations and the Sentier des Douaniers coastal path, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in Brittany.

The Crozon Peninsula

• Ideal for: Outdoor activities and unspoiled nature.

• Highlights: The Crozon Peninsula is known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Each of these areas offers a different taste of Brittany, from its rugged coasts and historic towns to its peaceful islands and vibrant cities. Whether you're looking to delve into the region's Celtic heritage, enjoy its gastronomic delights, or explore its natural beauty, you'll find a spot in Brittany that suits your interests.