Brittany is the independent Atlantic peninsula where your road trip goes deep into ancient history and wild maritime beauty. This region stands apart from the rest of France defined by its distinct Celtic language traditions and legends. Your drive here is a constant contrast between the inland forests and the coastal paths lined with granite cliffs and powerful waves.
You can visit the massive rows of mysterious standing stones at Carnac monuments left by prehistoric people. You can explore the dramatic walled port city of Saint Malo a fortress built by famous corsairs and privateers. Every drive leads you past old fishing harbors, medieval towns and lighthouses along the granite coast.
The local cuisine focuses on superb seafood, crepes and savory galettes accompanied by local cider. This region has got the beautiful wild scenery, profound Celtic history and the intense feeling of having reached the dramatic edge of the old world.
Brittany highlights
- Saint-Malo The walled corsair city of Saint-Malo amazes with its granite ramparts, tidal islands and powerful ocean views. Its old town, rebuilt after WWII, offers charming streets, seafood restaurants and maritime heritage.
- Rennes The regional capital has medieval charm, lively markets and a rich cultural scene. Its Thabor Gardens and historic city center make it an inviting urban stop in Brittany.
- Carnac Megaliths Carnac is home to one of the world’s largest collections of prehistoric standing stones, stretching across fields for kilometers. These mysterious alignments still puzzle archaeologists and provide a walk through deep ancient history.
- Pointe du Raz Journey to the westernmost tip of France a dramatic and wild cliff landscape offering breathtaking views of the turbulent Atlantic Ocean and its lighthouses.
- Côte de Granit Rose This northern coastline glows with surreal pink rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and waves. The seaside paths between Perros-Guirec and Ploumanac’h are some of Brittany’s most scenic walks.
- Quimper Quimper has beautiful medieval houses, Gothic cathedra, and footbridges crossing the Odet River. It’s a peaceful cultural hub known for Breton ceramics and a strong regional identity.
- Dinan This exceptionally preserved medieval town has historic streets and a majestic castle above the River Rance. Its artisan shops and quiet alleys make it a perfect slow-travel destination.
- Belle-Île-en-Mer Brittany’s largest island gives you dramatic cliffs, secret coves and pastel-colored ports. It’s ideal for cycling, hiking and enjoying a calmer more remote seaside atmosphere.
The local Four
History of Brittany
The history of Brittany began long before France existed with the mysterious ancient people who shaped the rows of standing stones at Carnac. Later the region became the final refuge for Celtic people fleeing Britain. Giving it its distinct language and culture. This area remained the independent duchy of Brittany resisting full French control for centuries. A history of fierce independence you will feel on your trip.
The ocean became the core of the Breton identity. Its sailors and explorers were famous worldwide and its port cities were powerful centers of maritime trade and military strength. Cities like Saint Malo were the bases for corsairs privateers, who sailed under the king's authority to attack foreign ships creating a rich history of piracy.
Brittany officially joined the Kingdom of France in 1532 but the region never surrendered its unique identity. This cultural resilience is stronger than ever. Your road trip connects you to an older European culture. Exploring its medieval castles its coastlines and the proud heritage of the last great Celtic land on the European continent.