Day 1: Paris to St Malo
Embark on a captivating journey from Paris to the maritime city of St Malo, where ancient walls and a rich seafaring heritage await. Discover the allure of this historic fortress city and its storied past.
Private Transfer to St Malo
Your Brittany adventure begins with a seamless private transfer from your Parisian abode to the enchanting city of St Malo.
As you travel through the French countryside, imagine the scenic beauty and historical grandeur of St Malo, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration.
St Malo City Walls and Marina
Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the heart of St Malo by walking its imposing city walls.
These ancient ramparts, standing testament to the city’s resilient past, offer unparalleled views of the marina, estuary, and the vast expanse of the English Channel. Your guide will recount tales of daring pirates and privateers who once set sail from this very port, enriching your walk with stories of adventure and conquest.
Demeure de Corsaire
Continue your journey through time with a private tour of the Demeure de Corsaire, an 18th-century mansion that survived the ravages of war.
This historical gem provides a rare glimpse into the lives of wealthy maritime merchants, showcasing opulent interiors that contrast sharply with the tumultuous history of St Malo. Explore grand ballrooms and private quarters, where every artifact and architectural detail narrates a story of affluence, trade, and maritime prowess.
Day 2: St Malo to Dinan
Continue your Brittany exploration with a scenic journey from St Malo to the charming town of Dinan, a medieval gem untouched by wartime destruction.
Journey to Dinan
Embark on the picturesque drive from St Malo to Dinan, where time appears to stand still amidst its well-preserved medieval streets.
As you approach, the town’s historic allure becomes evident, with its ramparts and timber-framed houses painting a scene from centuries past.
Place du Guesclin and Old Town
Begin exploring the heart of Dinan, the lively Place du Guesclin. Named after the famed Breton knight Bertrand du Guesclin, this square is a hub of activity, hosting a vibrant market filled with artisan crafts and local produce.
Wander into the Old Town from here, where narrow cobbled lanes lead you past half-timbered houses, each telling its own story of medieval life.
Basilica St Sauver
Discover the architectural marvel that is the Basilica St Sauver, a testament to Dinan’s historical and cultural depth.
This unique tower blends Romanesque foundations with Byzantine influences, showcasing a rare combination that spans several centuries. Inside, the basilica is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and intricate chapels, inviting quiet reflection and admiration.
Chateau of Dinan
Conclude your day with a visit to the imposing Chateau of Dinan, also known as the Donjon de la Duchesse Anne.
This fortress offers a deep dive into the region’s history, with its museum chronicling Breton culture through the ages. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of the town and the picturesque Rance River, encapsulating the spirit of Brittany in a single, breathtaking vista.
Day 3: Dinan to Rennes
Venture forth to Rennes, the historic and vibrant capital of Brittany. Here, delve into the city’s rich tapestry of history, art, and nature, from its grand Parliament building to the tranquil Jardins Botanique Thabor.
Journey to Rennes
Your day begins with a scenic transition from Dinan to Rennes, Brittany’s administrative heart. As you enter Rennes, the city’s blend of historical grandeur and contemporary vitality immediately captivates, setting the stage for a day of exploration and discovery.
Palais du Parlement de Bretagne
The first stop is the majestic Palais du Parlement de Bretagne, symbolizing Brittany’s judicial and political heritage.
Tour the beautifully restored building, where the intricate interiors and opulent courtrooms tell the story of Brittany’s past governance and the 1994 fire that nearly destroyed it. The guided tour offers insights into this iconic institution’s historical significance and architectural marvels.
Musee des Beaux-Arts
Continue to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where a collection of fine arts awaits. This museum houses an impressive array of artworks ranging from ancient to modern times, including masterpieces by Rubens, Boudin, and Gauguin.
The exhibitions offer a journey through the artistic evolution, highlighting the cultural richness that Rennes contributes to Brittany.
Marché des Lices
Immerse yourself in local life at the bustling Marché des Lices, one of France’s largest open-air markets.
Wander among stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and Breton specialties. The lively atmosphere and the array of colors and scents make this market a sensory delight and a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
Jardins Botanique Thabor
Our final destination for the day is the serene Jardins Botanique Thabor. Once owned by monks, this expansive botanical garden now offers a peaceful retreat with over 3,000 plant species, ornate rose gardens, and picturesque landscapes.
Stroll through its well-manicured paths, enjoying the blend of French formal and English landscape garden styles, and relax in this green oasis in the heart of Rennes.
Day 4: Rennes to Carnac & Quiberon
Journey westward from Rennes to uncover the mysteries of Carnac’s megalithic sites and the idyllic charm of the Quiberon Peninsula.
Day 4’s journey from the historical depths of Carnac to the tranquil beauty of the Quiberon Peninsula encapsulates Brittany’s coastal allure. From the enigmatic standing stones to the peaceful fishing villages and stunning beaches, this day offers a profound connection to the region’s ancient past and enduring relationship with the sea.
Vannes: A Walk Through Brittany’s Old Town
Your first stop of the day is Vannes, a historic walled town known for its mix of medieval streets and waterfront views. Start at the old centre, where you can walk past the town’s famous half-timbered houses, the impressive Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, and the Porte Saint-Vincent gate that once guarded the entrance to the city. Your guide will also point out the Jardin des Remparts, with its neatly kept gardens set against the old defensive walls, and the nearby harbour area, which has been an essential part of Vannes for centuries. Depending on the day, you might also see the lively covered market close to the port. Vannes offers a relaxed and engaging introduction to Brittany before you continue to Carnac.
Carnac’s Megalithic Marvels
Next, your private driver will take you to Carnac, home to an exceptional concentration of megalithic monuments.
Stand in awe of the thousands of ancient stones aligned across the landscape in mysterious patterns. These prehistoric sites, dating back over 6,000 years, spark wonder and speculation about their original purpose and the people who erected them.
A guided tour through these alignments, particularly the renowned Menec site, offers a deep dive into one of the world’s most significant Neolithic artifacts.
Quiberon Peninsula: Coastal Escape
Continue to the Quiberon Peninsula, a slender stretch of land jutting into the Atlantic. This ‘almost-island’ is celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery, dotted with picturesque fishing villages and sandy beaches.
The area’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere provide a stark contrast to the ancient stones of Carnac, showcasing the diverse landscapes that Brittany has to offer.
Maritime Delights and Beachside Leisure
Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint villages along the peninsula, each boasting its unique character and history. In one of the harbor-side restaurants, indulge in the local cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight.
Relish the day’s catch while enjoying views of boats bobbing in the water and the rugged coastline stretching into the horizon.
Day 5: Quiberon to Paris
Wrap up your Brittany adventure with a return journey to Paris, carrying with you a tapestry of memories from the rugged coastlines to the ancient stones of Carnac.
Panoramic Parisian Experience
Depending on your departure schedule, embark on a panoramic drive through Paris, revisiting its iconic landmarks from a fresh perspective.
Glide past the Eiffel Tower, the majestic Arc de Triomphe, and down the grand Champs-Élysées. Each monument tells a story, contributing to the rich tapestry of Parisian history and culture and providing a fitting conclusion to your journey.
Sweet Farewell at Ladurée
Conclude your tour on a sweet note with a visit to Ladurée, the epitome of French patisserie elegance.
Indulge in the world-famous macarons, a symphony of flavors and colors, offering a delightful sensory experience. This final stop not only satisfies your taste buds but also encapsulates the essence of French culinary artistry, making for a memorable farewell to your Brittany and Paris adventure.
