There aren’t many guided tours of Brittany, so when one comes along that’s absolutely brilliantly put together, run by a most charming host and takes in the very best of Brittany and just over the border Normandy – we’re excited!
Tour of Brittany and Normandy
This is no rush-around-tick-a-box tour. Instead you’ll get to see the most beautiful sites, the legends and icons of Brittany and Normandy. You’ll visit authentic restaurants and creperies, discover the secret bits that most visitors miss, take beach walks, stroll the markets and explore the charming towns which make this area of France so special. There’s not heaps of time in your private vehicle, the tour is organised so that the journey times are kept short and leave you plenty of time to explore. Accommodation is in fabulous boutique hotels and seaside resorts.
What you’ll see on this Normandy Tour
You’ll start in Normandy at historic Rouen and see the Cathedral featured in many paintings by Monet, so awed was he by it’s beauty. Explore the city where Joan of Arc met her sad demise and then take in absolutely gorgeous Honfleur. The enchanting harbour lined with 16th-18th century townhouses is a favourite of artists and no wonder. It’s one of the prettiest ports in France.
You’ll dine in wonderful restaurants and enjoy fresh food markets. Stop off in swanky Deauville, famous for its 1920s Boardwalk and a favourite with Parisians who want a seaside sojourn. You’ll also get to see the 900 year old Bayeux Tapestry, one of the most historic documents in the world telling the tale of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. You’ll visit Omaha Beach and end your Norman journey at the unmissable, magnificent Mont Saint-Michel. This magical island topped by a gravity-defying medieval monastery, is one of the wonders of the world. And, you’ll have lunch at the renowned La Mère du Poulard, following in the footsteps of Marilyn Monroe and Ernest Hemingway who also indulged in the famous crepes made here to the same recipe since 1888.
Then it’s a short journey over the border to Brittany.
What you’ll see in Brittany
You might think nothing will live up to the glory of the Mont, but your first stop is at the medieval time warp town of Dinan, an absolute jewel of Brittany.
Breton cuisine is world famous! Crepes, cakes, seafood and salted butter caramel, did you know salted butter was invented in Brittany? And you’re going to be totally spoiled as you experience the best of this region.
Dinard is the quintessential Brittany seaside town. It’s made many visitors fall in love with its charms from Alfred Hitchcock to Oscar Wilde. Chic and pretty the former fishing village is a joy to explore.
You’ll explore Saint-Malo with its historic walled city and then get off the beaten track to discover the most beautiful seaside towns of the Pink Granite Coast. You’ll go island hopping. Walk on the glorious beaches. Visit exquisite little towns, go to fabulous markets, take in beautiful gardens and much more.
Your tour ends with a visit to Laval, just on the border with the Pays de la Loire, it’s a fabulous town and close to Chartres which you’ll also visit and explore the world famous Gothic Cathedral.
Tours will resume in late 2022.
