Brittany’s North Coast, France
In the summer, we set off on a coastal adventure in Brittany. After landing at Orly Airport in Paris, we picked up a rental car—a must for exploring this part of the country—and began our journey west. Over the course of our holiday, we split our stay between two hotels: One in Plurien, near the wild headlands of Cap Fréhel, and the other in Roscoff, a historic port town further along the coast.
Exploring Brittany's North Coast
Coastal Highlights
Our days were filled with scenic drives, seaside strolls, and dips in turquoise waters that rival the Mediterranean. Among the highlights:
Sable d’Or les Pins – a vast sandy beach perfect for long walks and a first taste of Brittany’s dramatic tides.
Saint-Cast-le-Guildo & Dinard – elegant seaside resorts with Belle Époque charm and beautiful promenades.
Saint-Malo – the walled corsair city, steeped in maritime history, where we wandered cobbled streets and savored fresh crêpes.
Mont-Saint-Michel (Normandy) – technically just outside Brittany, but unmissable. Its abbey rising above tidal flats is as magical as its reputation suggests.
Cap Fréhel & Cap d’Erquy – windswept cliffs, heather-covered landscapes, and sweeping ocean views made for unforgettable hikes.
Perros-Guirec – gateway to the pink granite coast, with otherworldly rock formations glowing at sunset.
Carantec & Roscoff – quiet seaside towns with a relaxed, Breton feel.
Île de Batz – a short boat trip from Roscoff, offering lush gardens, tranquil paths, and hidden coves.
We found crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, a surprising contrast to Brittany’s rugged coastline.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Car rental is essential – public transport is limited, and some of the best beaches and viewpoints are tucked away.
Pack for all weather – Brittany’s climate can be changeable. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and of course, swimwear.
Timing is key – check tide schedules before visiting Mont-Saint-Michel or Saint-Malo for the most dramatic views.
Food to try – indulge in galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes), cider, and plenty of fresh seafood. Roscoff onions are a local specialty!
Ferries to islands – boats to Île de Batz and other nearby isles are frequent but can sell out in peak season—book ahead if possible.
Brittany’s north coast offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and seaside relaxation. From medieval towns and rugged cliffs to peaceful islands and turquoise bays, every stop felt like a discovery. Renting a car allowed us to explore at our own pace, and splitting our stay between Plurien and Roscoff gave us two very different, but equally enchanting, perspectives on this remarkable region.
It was a summer holiday full of coastal walks, hidden beaches, and salty sea air—one we’ll always remember.
