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Brittany is a large peninsula jutting off of the northwest side of France. Its climate is relatively comfortable even in the hotter months of the year. The regular rain keeps the countryside green and wooded. Though the southern end of France attracts more tourists, the northern parts also the places to be during the summer. Getting into the country can be done by flying, getting around the city is another issue. There is the train, but another way to get around would be by ferry.

Brittany Pictures

Things to do in Brittany

There are a number of different beaches throughout Brittany to satisfy the coastal needs for anyone visiting. The beaches are the number one attraction to tourists of the city; from small fishing harbors to the boardwalks. Aside from that one can take the time to visit Mont Saint Michel. This is the most visited attraction in France, with the exception of Paris of course. Another famous place to see is Saint Malo. Saint Malo, like Mont Saint Michel, is a fortified town. Built right off of the river Rance, the town is a port city which was an attraction to adventurers and pirates alike. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, Les Valles Gite is a farmhouse family home turned into a rental home for anyone visiting. Located in the middle of Brittany, it is the ideal place to stay to be able to travel all around to see what Brittany has to offer.

Nightlife in Brittany

Depending on your style or mood, one can find the perfect establishment to go out and enjoy the night, even with children. The discotheques are nightclubs which usually put up bright lights in front to attract their crowd and are usually open until around 5 AM. There are many cafes located throughout Brittany which provide live entertainment, and some are family friendly. These are much cheaper than discotheques and provide a less sophisticated relaxed atmosphere. They are perfect for a nice night to enjoy a bottle of beer, called a “biere.” One thing in particular to check out if in the country is the Fez Noz. This is a country dance event which takes place in village halls. Here the patrons dance, drink, and be merry until late into the morning.

Dining in Brittany

Throughout Brittany, there are numerous places to eat, depending on your taste and mood. If high class and expensive is your choice, then the restaurant at the top of the list is Relais Gourmand Olivier Roellinger. Located near Saint Malo, Olivier Roellinger brings the best of the best. This is the highest rated restaurant in the area, and although you will make a dent in your wallet, you will thoroughly enjoy any and every meal. For those who aren’t looking to drop their cash so quickly, they should check out L’Embellie. It is a sweet and simple modern establishment, with a “creative regional” cuisine selection. The price is right and will satsify anyone looking for good food with a great atmosphere. There is much more to look for, these suggestions should not stop you from finding a hole-in-the-wall, as those tend to have a reputation for being great no matter what your mood.

Shopping in Brittany

Shopping in France can prove to be an extremely rewarding experience. From the basic foods of a grocery store to the crafts made by those in the country, not to mention, you will find high quality everywhere you look. Food markets everywhere are somewhat of an occasion, and France is no exception; you can’t walk through these markets without having your mouth water. Small stores also tend to have the best quality items you can find, of course for slightly more coin. Again, be wary about lunch break, which is very popular throughout the country. Shops can and will close around 3 PM and reopen before 7. To make up for this though, the store do tend to be open early, around 7 AM, so be sure to get a head start on the day.

Brittany Travel Tips

• Do not try to start a conversation in English. The French have pride in their language and will show immediate respect towards an attempt to even speak their language, no matter how rusty it is.
• Greetings include la bise; a kiss on the cheek. Some people start on the left cheek, some people start on the right. Be ready to pick which side to avoid an embarrassing collision.
• Places are more likely to be closed around lunch time, with the exception of areas closer to urban centers. With that said, don’t expect to get much done during lunch, which lasts from one to three hours.