5 ideas for guided tours in Brittany

• Dinan

  Located in the Côtes-d’Armor, the town of Dinan welcomes you with its unique medieval charm and picturesque streets. Strolling along its cobbled lanes, you will discover magnificent half-timbered and stone houses, bearing witness to the town’s rich history.

  From the ramparts, which stretch over three kilometers, climb up to Saint Catherine’s Tower, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the town and its surroundings. These ancient walls are an impressive remnant of Dinan’s defensive past and offer a unique panorama.

  The splendid Rue du Jerzual gently slopes down to the charming Place des Cordeliers and Place des Merciers, where you can admire medieval architecture while soaking in the friendly atmosphere. This cobbled street, lined with artisan workshops and galleries, is a true journey through history.

  Continuing your walk, you will arrive at Dinan’s port, nestled along the banks of the Rance River. This coastal river is the perfect starting point for peaceful strolls along the old towpath, which winds along the river and leads to the majestic Cap Fréhel, just a few kilometers away. Be sure to include the port and its surroundings in your city guide for a complete and enriching visit.

• The Brocéliande Forest

  The legendary Brocéliande Forest was first imagined by the 12th-century poet Chrétien de Troyes in his tales of Arthurian legends. It was described as one of the most magical places on Earth, home to enchanted castles, fairies, dragons, and other mythical creatures.

  However, in reality, this enchanting site is known as the Paimpont Forest, located an hour’s drive from Rennes towards Vannes. This vast wooded expanse of over 7,000 hectares offers a unique experience for those who love adventure in the heart of nature.

  Start your exploration with a visit to Comper Castle, home to the famous Arthurian Imaginary Center. Dedicated to Arthurian legends, this site features exhibitions and events that immerse visitors in the fascinating world of King Arthur and his knights. As you explore the forest trails, you will encounter a diverse wildlife, including roe deer, majestic stags, and a variety of migratory birds.

  The landscapes of Brocéliande, composed of dense woodlands, wild moors, and tranquil ponds, create a spellbinding atmosphere perfect for relaxation and contemplation. For a full immersion, don’t miss the magnificent Josselin Castle, which overlooks the Oust River, offering a spectacular view. Finally, visit the Menhirs of Monteneuf, where you can get up close to these mysterious standing stones, remnants of an ancient and enigmatic past. This region is full of mysteries and legends that will captivate both young and old alike.

• The Pointe du Raz

  At the southern tip of Finistère lies a majestic headland, crowned by an impressive rocky cliff towering over the Iroise Sea. The Pointe du Raz, located in the commune of Plogoff, is a true natural gem and marks the westernmost point of the region.

  With its dramatic 70-meter-high cliffs, it offers spectacular panoramas that attract visitors year-round.

  Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, this Breton site is steeped in history and maritime legends. For centuries, Breton fishermen have braved the powerful currents around the Pointe du Raz to bring in their catch. The region is renowned for its maritime culture, and its lighthouses have long guided sailors through these turbulent waters.

  To reach this natural wonder, you have several options: two coastal paths offer stunning views, while a central path, more accessible to all, leads directly to the point. On clear days, you can spot the iconic Vieille and Tévennec lighthouses, and even further, the Île de Sein on the horizon.

  Along the way, take time to observe the large colony of laughing gulls residing nearby in the Cap Sizun Nature Reserve, a protected area home to a rich and diverse fauna. This region is also a favorite for hikers and bird watchers, reflecting the close connection between its wild landscapes and the deeply rooted maritime culture of Brittany.

• Belle-Île-en-Mer

  The largest of the Breton islands, Belle-Île-en-Mer, can be reached by ferry from the port of the Quiberon Peninsula.

  This vast Île du Ponant spans over 80 kilometers of unspoiled coastline, making it an ideal destination for an extended stay. Spending only a day here would not do justice to all it has to offer. Hiring a tour guide in Brittany can greatly enhance your experience by unveiling the island’s hidden secrets and little-known stories.

  Surrounding its four main towns—Locmaria, Bangor, Le Palais, and Sauzon—you will find breathtaking landscapes, from rolling dunes to steep cliffs and fine sandy beaches perfect for relaxation.

  One of the island’s most famous spots is Pointe des Poulains, renowned for its exceptional panorama of the wild ocean. Once home to the actress Sarah Bernhardt, this remote location is now a haven of peace for visitors.

  Don’t miss the iconic Aiguilles de Port-Coton, a remarkable site with rock formations sculpted by the tides. Immortalized by painter Claude Monet, these dramatic shapes offer a stunning natural backdrop.

  Among the island’s historical treasures, the Vauban Citadel, a medieval fortress overlooking the ocean, transports visitors back to a time when the island played a strategic role in coastal defense. For a panoramic view of Belle-Île and its surroundings, climb to the top of the Grand Phare de Kervilahouen, an unmissable landmark that offers a whole new perspective on the island.

• Cap Fréhel

  Cap Fréhel is a breathtaking site where nature reveals itself in all its splendor, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the ocean. The Cap Fréhel lighthouse, rising more than 100 meters above the sea, is a striking landmark.

  For the more adventurous, climbing the 145 steps to its summit is an unforgettable experience. The reward at the top is well worth the effort: a stunning 360-degree view of the sea, the cliffs, and the surrounding moorland. On clear days, you can even see the Channel Islands in the distance.

  Cap Fréhel is also a sanctuary for seabirds, home to an internationally significant ornithological reserve. Visitors can observe a variety of nesting species, including silver gulls, northern fulmars, and even guillemots.

  A scenic coastal trail, lined with heather and gorse, leads to the famous Fort La Latte, also known as the Château de la Roche Goyon. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 14th century, was a strategic stronghold defending the coastline from Anglo-Norman invasions. A visit to the fort takes you on a journey through time, with its ramparts, dungeon, and stunning ocean views.

  The trail connecting Cap Fréhel to Fort La Latte is a must-do hike, allowing you to fully appreciate the wild beauty of the coastline.