Preface

Sights of Brittany. In general, to be honest, I prepared for writing this text for a long time, with a little apprehension, even with a sense of responsibility and thoroughness. Indeed, today in RuNet there is generally very little information about this region and the historical region of Brittany. There is little information, little knowledge about what a state actually is? Region? Region? Who owns it? Where did it come from? What's remarkable? What does it have to do with Britain? To Great Britain? Why even know about Brittany? But first things first. Looking ahead, I will only say that the region is so unique, beautiful and culturally rich that some kind of universal gap in knowledge about it would certainly be corrected, because this should not be the case: all unique places are worth visiting and learning about. wrote and had them photographed.

What is Brittany?

Sights of Brittany. Brittany today is a region belonging to. However, it belongs to France only since 1532. That’s why, and not only that, this is an absolutely special territory. It is enough just to mention that this is the most ancient region of all that belongs to France: its history began even before the Paleozoic era. Known as part of Gaul under the name Armorica, it was the site of migration of Celtic communities from the British Isles in late Roman and early medieval times. It is then that the Breton people are believed to have emerged.

Kitchen of Brittany

In Brittany it is customary to eat seafood, otherwise the best oysters are grown there, including the flats of the Belon basin. Compared to the more traditional creuses, flat oysters have a milder, nutty flavor and are less sea-y. However, the taste and color...

In addition, Breton cuisine is (pancakes on buckwheat flour with salty fillings and crepes (sweet pancakes on wheat flour with sweet fillings) (there is a separate text about this), which are certainly washed down with cider (apple drink (there is brut and semi-sweet).

And yes, in Breton cuisine there is the famous Quign-Amand, a sweet pie made from puff pastry with butter and sugar, a very tasty delicacy.

Breton Houses

Sights of Brittany. Brittany is beautiful with its still preserved Breton thatched roofs - toit de chaume. I must say that there are such roofs in both the Pyrenees and even in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Thatched roofs were replaced by slate roofs in Brittany. And today it is distinctive feature Breton houses (individual and multi-apartment). The beautiful slate roofs that cover all the castles in France allow you to create miracles of form and style. The anthracite-colored roof matches almost any other color. Here you can find half-timbered houses and old and new slate. By the way, old slate roofs are easily distinguishable from new ones; they are rougher and thicker.
A curious detail - what used to be part of Brittany - is divided into two parts: southern and northern, so the entire north and center are gray slate roofs with brick terrorist chimneys, but everything outside the southern border of the city is already tiled (different shades of orange, pink, brown). And in many cities there is even a ban on this or that roof (or wall) material, so as not to spoil the entire ensemble of the city.

Traveling in Brittany

From the point of view of a traveler, Brittany is conveniently divided into Southern (from a geographical point of view, this zone will include the South and West of the region: namely the departments: Morbihan and Finistère) and Northern (departments: Côte d'Armor and Ille et Vilaine). It’s more convenient to travel this way, especially since there are a lot of beautiful and interesting things in both the Northern and Southern parts.

Southern Brittany is the beautiful Morbihan golf with the islands and the city of Vannes, this is the Quibron peninsula (by the way, the birthplace of thalassotherapy) with a wild coast, with a cannery to visit, with beaches, these are the stone alleys of Carnac with incomprehensible structures 4 thousand years ago, this is Cape Ra and the Crozon Peninsula with fantastically beautiful beaches, Vauban fortifications, lovely villages, cider and honey production and bunkers of the Second World War. These are rocks and the ocean, and tides and a mild climate. And also this Beautiful island and the terrifying island of Ouessant, and Brest, completely rebuilt after the war, with warships and the best (I’m not afraid of this word) aquarium in the world, where half a day is not enough.

Northern Brittany is the famous Mont Saint-Michel (although it, of course, is part of the Normandy region, but due to its proximity it is often visited together with Brittany). This is medieval Dinan, and coastal Dinard and a city where the weather changes from gloomy to sunny in seconds - Saint-Malo and Saint-Servan, this is Morlaix (albeit part of Finistère) - with a viaduct along which you can walk. Well, then there is the unusually beautiful coast of pink granite and the French village of Plumanac, recognized by the French in 2015, with the customs officers’ path, where huge pinkish stones and boulders of bizarre shapes strewn the beaches. This includes Perros-Gerek with water sports and the magical feeling of Beauport Abbey. This is the island of Brea, where there are no cars, and people travel on foot or by bicycle and buy food once a week on the continent. This is the austere Roscoff with stone houses and a unique Breton Gothic church. This is the island of Ba with gardens that bloom all spring and summer.
And this is an archipelago of seven islands, where gannets, puffins and petrels have settled in such numbers that in the spring they seem to dance some kind of magical dance in the sky especially for you, circling above their heads, waving their wings with a span of 2 meters.

Brittany never ceases to amaze and this region is one of the most undeservedly missed by foreign tourists. The French adore and fill all of Brittany every summer and spring. But I really want everyone to visit this magical land at least once in their lives. These are the sights of Brittany. , you will definitely like it.

Every person is, to one degree or another, familiar with a European country like France. Some people know it from the novels of A. Dumas, some from the famous comedies of the twentieth century, and some from the games of football clubs. Travel lovers have probably visited the French Mediterranean coast, and romantically minded people dream of visiting the capital of this country - Paris... This list could be continued indefinitely, but today we will get to know the other side of France, which is the majority of tourists, sports fans and film buffs of ours. the country was never interested. This state is divided into administrative units - regions of France. In this article we will talk about one of them. This territory is little known to Russian tourists, but the French themselves enjoy spending their holidays there. We are talking about Brittany.

A little about the administrative divisions of France

The regions of France are quite large administrative-territorial entities. They were created more than 40 years ago with the aim of decentralization political power in the country. Executive power in each region is exercised by an elected council, but is under the control of a high-ranking official, the prefect. France is divided into 27 parts-regions, 22 of which are in the European part of the country, and five are represented by islands in the waters of three oceans, in addition to the Arctic. In accordance with the Constitution, the regions of France have broad powers of governance and influence. For example, in higher and school education, vocational training and teaching, scientific research, economics, land use, infrastructure (waterways, railways and roads), social policy, etc.

However, it's time to return to our main topic. As stated in the encyclopedia, Brittany is the northwestern region and historical region of France, washed from the south and from the north by the English Channel. The capital of Brittany is the city of Rennes.

Geological certificate

The historical region of Bretagne (France) lies on the territory of the peninsula of the same name, which protrudes strongly into the waters Atlantic Ocean. This peninsula, by geological standards, is the oldest piece of land in France. Its coastline, up to 3,700 km long, is very indented by numerous capes, islands and bays. The Armorican massif, which forms the Brittany peninsula, is an ancient shield of the Precambrian period. It is believed that during the breakup of continental plates it was part of West Africa.

Relief

It is characterized by an elevated, but low, relief (its maximum height reaches 107 meters) and is quite level. The landscape, cut by valleys and rivers, is somewhat reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland. Over the course of several centuries, human influence has so transformed the previously very infertile area that the alternation of meadows, fields and other plots with artificial strips of bushes and forests characteristic of this territory received its own name - “bocage”.

Climatic conditions

The climate in this region is mild and temperate, due to the influence of the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Summer is warm and quite early. average temperature in July it is +24 °C. Winters are mild and very wet, however, despite this, there is little precipitation here - up to 1000 mm per year. The average temperature in January is +7 °C. The north-west of France is characterized by strong sea winds, which can reach significant strength in the coastal area, and quickly lose their pressure as they penetrate deeper into the territory. It is to combat the elements that local residents developed the system of famous bocage forest strips.

Historical reference

Ancient Armorica, or, as the Romans called this area, the Land by the Sea, was inhabited by Celtic tribes until the 5th century AD, and after that by settlers from the British Isles. They gave this region its modern name. In the Middle Ages, Brittany was connected with Britain, thanks to the sea route, much stronger than with mainland France. Most modern cities, like Saint-Lo, Saint-Brieuc or Saint-Malo, were founded by Irish or Welsh missionaries and were named after ancient saints who probably can no longer be found in any lists.

Language and culture

To this day, the people inhabiting Brittany (France) are quite different in their culture and language from the population of the rest of this country. Wherein local residents They try in every possible way to emphasize their authenticity both at the everyday level and at the official level. The Breton language, epic, traditions and complex symbolism retain their originality and meaning today, despite partial assimilation with French culture. In addition, this region’s desire for independence is clearly visible, manifested, for example, in the widespread use of historical and cultural names, in the struggle to create its own separate domain on the Internet, and even in the creation of the political party “Democratic Breton Union”. This organization advocates for regional autonomy. And local festivals and celebrations are completely imbued with the traditions of the people more than anywhere else in France, and they are clearly not designed for tourists, but exclusively for the revival of their own ancient culture.

Cities of Brittany

France is very beautiful country, rich in cities and towns, settlements and villages. And they are all absolutely different from each other; each of the settlements has its own zest. Brittany is no exception. Since 1532, its capital has been the city of Rennes, located in the middle part of the peninsula, at its very base. From here to Paris, it is only a two-hour drive. The main cities of the region are Brest, Lorient, Vannes, Dinard, Dinan, Quimper, Saint-Malo and Auray. Below in this article we will provide an overview of the most beautiful settlements in Brittany, which are interesting for their historical and natural attractions. The map of France given above will help everyone decide on a route, following which you can visit all these objects, learn a lot of interesting things and expand your horizons.

Northern coast of Brittany

1. Dinan. When traveling around Brittany, this port town cannot be ignored. Behind its fortress walls it carefully preserves the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Dinan is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Here you can admire the architecture of ancient half-timbered houses lining the narrow cobbled streets, a luxurious fourteenth-century castle across the Rance River. All this tells about the very rich past of this town, thriving thanks to crafts and trade. Many souvenir shops offer products of modern craftsmen: wood gilders, glassblowers, etc.

2. Dinar. Tourist tours to Brittany must include this town in their list, because it is one of the oldest French resorts. Even before the mid-19th century, it was a simple fishing village, until the place attracted the attention of the English aristocracy. And so, like mushrooms after rain, the villas of British lords began to grow, who spent the summer season here, admiring the extraordinary view of the sea bay and enjoying the mild microclimate. The vegetation here is strongly reminiscent of the Mediterranean, and the town itself retains the same bourgeois atmosphere. Beautiful antique villas make up the architectural landmark of Dinard. There are golf courses, casinos and huge space for lovers of sailing.

3. Saint-Malo. This modern resort, covered in the glory of corsairs, is a must-visit for lovers of surfing and sailing. Huge waves and winds are attractive both for surfers and for those who just want to admire the fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean from the heights of the fortress walls of the old city. Walking around the perimeter of the Saint-Malo fortress will leave an unforgettable impression in your memory.

4. Brest. This city has always been associated with the roar of cannons and the sea. It was founded to protect the western borders of the country, and during the Second World War, just like its namesake in Belarus, it was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth. However, today, newly rebuilt, it amazes its guests with the beauty of the gardens and the city castle, which houses the Admiralty.

Inner Brittany

1. Rennes. When visiting Brittany (France), it is impossible not to get acquainted with the capital of the region. First of all, it attracts with its diverse cultural life. This is both a museum of fine arts and a famous university, which is a large scientific center, and theatre. When in Rennes, be sure to stroll through its parks and the numerous river embankments that cross the city.

2. Vitre. This city is home to one of the most beautiful cities. It reminds one of childhood dreams... One gets the impression that this is a medieval scenery, it is so alive. In addition, the impression is complemented by ancient but well-preserved cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. As a result, a walk around the city turns into a real journey through time.

3. Josselin. This town is also famous for its castle, built during the Renaissance by the Rohan dynasty. By the way, their descendants still live there. However, the facility is still open to the public. In Josselin you can see Gothic churches, ancient houses, green terraces, open-air cafes and much more. In addition, a large medieval festival is regularly held here.

South coast

1. Bath. This coastal town is often compared to Cannes. Here you can visit a medieval fortress, a sea harbour, a historical and cultural center with embankments. Locality amazes with the architecture of ancient houses of the 15th century, a castle and a magnificent garden.

2. Nantes. This is the historical birthplace of the city of arts. Today, both the ancient architecture of the ancestral nest of the Breton princes and the ultra-modern palace of justice coexist here. Tourists are invited to visit the Jules Verne Museum, as well as 16 churches and the Cathedral of Peter and Paul.

Brittany, France. Natural attractions

Of course, this region is interesting not only for the architectural monuments listed above, but also for other attractions. When visiting Brittany (France is generally famous for its picturesque territories and distinctive settlements, but the region we are considering is something special!), Be sure to make time to get acquainted with these places:

1. Coast of pink granite. It is considered one of the most romantic places in France. It is located between Treberden and Perros-Guirec, and got its name thanks to the pink granite blocks piled up on the coast.

2. Ile de Brea is an island off the northern coast of the region. The wonderful picturesqueness of this area attracts numerous tourists.

3. Karnak stones. This is a well-known "garden" of megalithic stones, which is often compared to Stonehenge.

4. Pampon forest. In this gloomy forest, stretching over more than 7 thousand hectares, Celtic Druids used to gather. In addition, it was here that the events described in the fairy tale about the Holy Grail took place.

Welcome to Brittany!Bienvenue en Bretagne! Degemer mat e Breezh!

Former abbey and castle ruins in Leon /Lè hon. Walk along the River Rance.

About Becherel /Haut Bè cherel– on the hill there is only a foundation 80 X 90 m and a dilapidated tower, but from a Gallo-Roman temple. This fanum in honor of the Roman god of war Mars was built in the 1st century. n. e. and served until the 3rd century.

Medieval Yunodey Castle /chateau de la Hunaudaye– an encyclopedic example of the development of military architecture since the 13th century. Unfortunately, after the revolutionary arson in 1793, it served as a stone quarry for more than a hundred years... During the season, it is a venue for various exhibitions and even an open-air cinema.

Fort La Latte / Fort La Latte. Despite the name, it looks more like a medieval fortress on a sea cliff than a fort completed in the 17th and 18th centuries. The location where many historical films and even music videos were filmed. The masterpiece is the film “Vikings” made by Hollywood in 1957 (starring Kirk Douglas and Tony Curtis. The extras are local residents and again Americans. They filmed the eternal “The Three Musketeers” here, for example, in 1948).

Cape Freel /cap Frè hel. Nature and ornithological reserve (nesting gulls, crested cormorant, Torda penguin). A unique panorama without even climbing the post-war lighthouse. Customs Path. And laurel (sea bass) is caught well.

Yacht port Dowett /Dahouet and port Erki / Erquy– Breton’s “Capital of the Scallop” and in spring the main venue for the delicious and cheerful Scallop Festival (Fete de la coquille Saint-Jacques). The shell is a delicacy, everywhere for gourmet – silver medal after abalon... mmm, you'll lick your fingers! (the latter is prohibited by restaurant etiquette).

Residential private Bienassi Castle /chateau de Bienassis rebuilt starting in 1620. Visit the castle inside only as part of a group recruited locally. The adjacent park is on the list of “Parks and Gardens of France”.

Palace of the 18th-19th centuries Domaine du Val /domaine du Val, now a hotel and another gastronomic restaurant. The park is included in the "Parks and Gardens of France".

In the center of the town Lamballe- an old half-timbered building... and a stud farm founded under Napoleon Bonaparte. Heavy trucks, famous throughout Europe!

Moncontour /Moncontour in the Middle Ages it was completely surrounded by towers and fortress walls. Classified by the list "The most beautiful villages in France".

Saint-Brieuc /St. Brieuc- the capital of the department and still the diocese, respectively the cathedral (St. Stephen. Romanica - Gothic. Completed in the 18th century)

Goelo Coast /côte du Goëlo- these are fishing ports and at the same time resort towns, plus rocks cut by the wind, time and the English Channel. Rog Plouha / pointe de Plouha is the highest point on the Breton coast (104 meters above sea level)! In the port of Gwin Zegal, ships have been tied to wooden posts driven into the seabed since the 5th century. (this is what we call “the old fashioned way”..).

Chapel of the 13th century. Kermaria an Iscuit /Kermaria an Iskuit and her wall frescoes (1488-1501), where 47 characters, holding hands together, dance in a circle in the Dance of Death. Nearby are the mysterious circular ruins of the so-called. temple in Lanlef /temple de Lanleff(is it really just a pre- or Romanesque church from the 9th-11th centuries?).

Fishing fleet of the port Paimpol /Paimpol successfully caught cod from the 15th century until the 1930s. The hard work of its fishermen is glorified by Pierre Loti's novel “The Icelandic Fisherman” of 1886 (published in Russian in 1923).

Nearby is surrounded by greenery Beauport Abbey/abbaye de Beauport, founded in 1202 (more precisely, what was left of it after the Great French Revolution). For more than 600 years, Beauport remained the only Premonstratensian monastery in Brittany (aka Norbertines or White Canons). Center for spiritual and economic life coast even before the founding of Paimpol.

On the ship on "Island of Flowers" Brea /Ile de Brè hat. An archipelago of tranquility, where there are no cars, lush (exotic and almost Mediterranean) flora and, despite the seasonal influx of tourists, deserted beaches and cute coves.

Logivy-de-la-Mer / Loguivy-de-la-Mer. Scallop fishing port. And an ordinary resort village, if a certain V.I. Ulyanov-Lenin had not rested here from June 23 to July 25, 1902. It seems that he thriftyly brought his famous revolutionary cap for making speeches from an armored car from here as a souvenir (in style, it is very reminiscent of the traditional caps of Breton fishermen).

Scythe Talber /sillon de Talbert(nature reserve) stretches narrowly into the sea for 3.2 km, but is never cut off from the land by the tide. It and the neighboring wild Cape of the Castle / pointe du Chateau are the northernmost continental points of Brittany.

Town and River port Treguier /Treguier: half-timbered and cathedral, dedicated to Saint Tugdual, but with the tomb of Yves de Kermartin († 19 May 1303), during the life of a local judge and to this day the patron saint of lawyers. Yves de Trè guier canonized in 1347; The holiday in honor of Saint Yves for Catholics around the world is precisely on May 19. The city was also the birthplace of Ernest Ronan (1823 – 92), philosopher, historian and anti-clerical. His statue still looks critically from its pedestal towards the temple of God.

Modern landscape Jardin de Kerdalo gardens /Jardins de Kerdalo. Classified as a "Remarkable Garden" (Jardin Remarquable).

In a 15th century castle. Rosh Zhagu /La Roche Jagu Nowadays exhibitions are constantly held. Its park and gardens are a modern interpretation of medieval traditions (“Wonderful Garden”). And nearby along the Trieu River during the season you can ride on a real steam locomotive!

Tonquedec Castle / chateau de Tonquè dec– another encyclopedic example of military construction of the 13th-15th centuries. During the season, it is a site for celebrations and for reenactors to conduct medieval foot battles.

Old Gengan(or Guingamp) / Guingamp- castle ruins, prison, fachferk, Basilica... and the Ruduru football stadium with 18,256 seats (and the city has about 8 thousand inhabitants). Because Guingan is the smallest city in France whose football club plays in the First League. En Avant Guingamp! (“Forward, Gengan!”)

"Holy Mountain of Tregor" Menez-Bre / Menez-Bre, where from the 6th century. Following the example of the blind bard (and always accompanied by a wolf!) Saint Herve, Breton sorcerers conjured evil spirits and cast out demons...

Shore Pink granite/ la Cote de Granite Rose. Stone houses of the local resort towns, beaches, rocks, strange boulder figures - all made of pink granite... The sculptor is Her Majesty Nature (except for the houses, of course))). Unique natural beauty!

Chateau de Rosanbo/ Rosenbo Castle– from the 14th century. It took almost 600 years to complete construction, remaining to this day the family nest of the dynasty of the same name. A park.

Customs Trail /Sentier des Douaniers easily accessible on many parts of the coast for a walk that is healthy for the soul and body.

Valley of Saints / La Vallèe des Saints is a kind of Breton “Easter Island” and a large-scale showcase of local granite. More than 1,500 years ago, monks and priests from Great Britain landed on the coast of Celtic Brittany. Some of them, like Saint Malo or Saint Brieuc, became not only preachers of a new religion, but also the founders of the cities that now bear their names: Saint-Malo, Saint-Brieuc. Many Breton saints were not canonized by the Roman Church, but are still revered by the Bretons today. In the heart of the region, dozens of statues of Breton saints (already more than 80 sculptures) rise on a hill near the village Carnoet. Every year new giants carved from granite (4 m high) make the landscape even more fantastic.

Officially department 29 Finistère. Since Finistere comes from Finisterra - in the Latin of the Roman conquerors “where the earth ends” - then you can have the End of the Earth or the End of the World (as you prefer):

Huelgoat Forest /Huelgoat delights nature lovers and fans of novels about King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

They stretch to the west towards the ocean Arre mountains /Monts d’ Arree. Peaks – deserted Roc Trevezel (385 m) and St. Michael. Michel (380 m) with a chapel of the same name.

Morlaix /Morlaix– an ancient picturesque port city on the Zharlo River. A powerful castle once towered over its historical center (almost nothing remains of the chateau), and now there is a 19th-century stone viaduct along which modern TGV trains of the Paris-Brest line rush.

Lock Thoreau("Bull Castle") /châ teau du Taureau. Accessible to those arriving by ship (and only if the tides allow). A fortress of the 16th century, converted after its visit in 1689 by Vauban personally (and according to his plans) into a fort.

Funeral cairn Barnenes / cairn de Barnenez– a stone mound of the Neolithic era (4600 – 4300 BC). The largest megalithic mausoleum in Europe! And they built something like this:

Saint-Paul-de-Leon / St. Pol-de-Lè on was a diocese until 1802. For admirers of Gothic, from primitive to flamboyant, the Cathedral of St. Pol-Aurelien (13th–16th century) and the 14th–15th century chapel of Our Lady of Kreisker / chapelle Notre-Dame du Kreisker (the highest bell tower in Brittany! 78 m. Can be climbed (170 steps)))

Port city Roscoff /Roscoff- the former “nest of smugglers, corsairs and traders, especially onions.” The birthplace of soothing and restorative French Thalassotherapy (born in 1899), therefore today it is also a resort.

Butz Island(or bam) /Ile-de-Batz. 3.5 km on 1.5 and 10 km coastline. Exotic garden, St. Anne's chapel, lighthouse...

Kerzhan Castle /chateau de Kerjean(1550 – 1590) – an architectural example of the Breton Renaissance.

Enclos paroissiaux– parish courtyards and graveyards? There is no exact equivalent in the great and mighty, since this phenomenon, even for France, is typical only for Lower Brittany. Specific walled architectural ensemble 15th-17th centuries around the church, consisting of triumphal arch(the so-called Arch of Death), a calvarium cross with a crucifix, a cemetery, an ossuary (ossuary), less often with a chapel for holy relics... and a source. Saint-Tégonnec / St. Thegonnec, Guimiliau, Lampaul-Gimiliau, Plougonven, Plougastel-Daoulas, Pleyben, etc. In total, about 70 “anclos” are well preserved in Brittany. Certainly in its center is a Calvary cross with scenes of the passion of Christ. A real Calvary made of stone!

IN Le Folgoet /Le Folgoet The 600-year-old Basilica of Our Lady of Notre-Dame-du-Folgoet (1399-1409) was a place of pilgrimage for Duchess Anne of Brittany, King Francois I of France, Queen Anne of Austria and other rich and poor believers, and it still remains so.

Aber in Breton means “delta of a river flowing into the sea” (and in Brittany they all flow into the sea sooner or later). Aber of the Wrak River / Aber Wrac’h, Aber Benoit / Aber Benoit and Aber Ildut / Aber Ildut are somewhat similar even to small fjords...

Cape Corsen / pointe de Corsen– the westernmost point of continental France. Some 3,500 km across the Atlantic - and you are in Canada!

Cape St. Matthew /Pointe de St. Mathieu– a lighthouse, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, Christianized menhirs... and a magnificent panoramic view.

Port city Brest /Brest(not to be confused with the hero city of the same name in Belarus) by September 19, 1944, it was completely defeated when captured by American troops. One of the three largest French Navy bases, including nuclear submarines. In the preserved local Brest Fortress there is a Naval Prefecture and a museum. The Oceanarium "Oceanopolis" at the Port de Plaisance marina will tell you about the depths of the oceans and distant countries. Many ships that went down in history sailed into the famous roadstead of Brest; military or scientific expeditions began here. Therefore, Brest became the venue for a maritime festival every 4 years. Fê tes maritimes internAtionales. The last “gathering” of sailing ships pleased us in July 2016 and it was called Brest-2016.

Get away from civilization (as far as possible in the 21st century and in developed metropolitan France) to its furthest Ouessant Islands /Ile d’ Ouessant, Molen /Molene or Sep /Ile de Sein.

Ruin Landevennek Abbey /abbaye de Landevennec look at their visitors and exhibits at various exhibitions.

Crozon Peninsula in the shape of a cross, therefore Crozon. Formally, the capital is the town of the same name. There's actually more to life in Camaret-sur-Mer / Camaret-sur-Mer(in Breton, Kameled - why isn’t Camelot to you?). If King Arthur appears to someone after another pint of Breton buckwheat beer, then magnificent views really come in a constant sequence on the Crozon coast.

“City of Four Ports” Duarnenez(Douarnenez allowed) / Douarnenez earned fame and money by fishing and selling sardines and other tasty fish. Richard Wagner - on a local legend and his opera “Tristan and Isolde”. Port-Rhu ship museum in the delta of the Pouldavid river.

Time stood still in a town of the 17th and 18th centuries Locronan /Locronan(“The most beautiful villages in France”). In the double temple is the tomb of St. Ronan, revered to this day with an annual pardon procession of the cross (Great Pardon La Grande Tromenie is held every 6 years. “Pardon,” the French say, asking for forgiveness not only from heaven..).

Cape Sizan /Cap Sizun and his western horn Cape Ra / pointe de Raz– a majestic natural reserve truly at the End of the World. Expanse for romantics, waves and winds, guarded by 4 lighthouses. Between the island of Saint and Cape Ra is the most dangerous place on the Breton Atlantic coast (currents here reach 8-10 knots).

Kemper /Quimper- the capital of the department of Finistère and in the Middle Ages the county of Cornwall (for Anglophones you can use Cornwall, but this is Great Britain, although there is a connection between them). In Breton, Kemper means “confluence of rivers”, because it stands at the confluence of the rivers Steyr, Frou, Jeu and Aude... it’s literally a tongue twister! Old city around the cathedral of Saint Corentin, another of the seven founder saints of Brittany.

Trevarez Castle(maybe Trevar) / chateau de Tre varez was built from 1894 to 1906 in the then very fashionable eclectic style. As the headquarters of German and Japanese (!) submariners, it was seriously damaged by allied aviation on July 30, 1944, but after restoration the castle was partially opened to the public. Its special pride is a park of 85 hectares, classified as a “Wonderful Garden” (Jardin Remarquable).

IN Plomelen /Plomelin the former cider mill has been producing the world's only buckwheat whiskey, Eddu, since 2000. Shall we try? Bretons, Scots, Irish... Celts of all countries, unite! 🙂

Through Pont Labbé /Pont l’ Abbe get to Cape Penmark /pointe de Penmarc’ h. Your feet and 307 steps in a circle will take you to a height of 60 m of the Eckmühl lighthouse (phare d’Eckmühl, 1893-97), whose “insides” are lined with opal glass!

Fishing ports Gilvinek /Guilvinec And Elbows /Loctudy They will delight us, the curious and the gourmet, with the unloading of freshly caught fish and langoustines (which looks more delicious on a plate in a restaurant).

Calm port resort Benodet /Be nodet in the delta of the Ode River, which flows picturesquely into the Atlantic.

Concarneau /Concarneau– a fortified city of the 13th-17th centuries with a sea of ​​shops and restaurants inside, a large fishing port, sandy beaches...

You can go to Glenan Islands /Iles de Glè nan(the colors are local “Caribbean islands”, but the water and air temperature is a la Brittany).

Keriole Castle /chateau de Keriolet– Russian castle in Brittany! Built in late XIX V. for Princess Zinaida Ivanovna Yusupova (nee Naryshkina). Her great-grandson, Prince Felix Yusupov, who was directly involved in the murder of Grishka Rasputin, wrote in his “Memoirs”: “My great-grandmother was a real beauty, she lived a cheerful life, and had more than one adventure.” And Felix Feliksovich himself? (lived here too, but sold the castle in 1960)

Pont-Aven- in the footsteps of Paul Gauguin, Emile Bernard and other artists of the Pontavin school as one of the branches of impressionism, who knew how to both paint and relax in Brittany.

Belon /Bè lon– the taste of Brittany, familiar to the emperors of Rome! The delta of the river of the same name still gives lovers elite “desalinated” flat belon oysters with a nutty flavor.

And of course, Customs Trail, which “walks” us both at the End of the World and in Morbihan.

Department number 56 Morbihan / Morbihan. Like the eponymous Gulf of Golfe du Morbihan:

Let's honor the churches and chapels of the center of Brittany from the 15th to 17th centuries and their Saint Barbara around Le Faouette /Le Faouet(there is also a covered market of the 16th century), St. Fjakr in St. Fiacre, Mother of God in Kernaskledan /Kernascle den(frescoes with the Dance of Death of the 15th century), St. Nicodemus / St. Nicodeme near St. Nicolas-des-Eaux…

Pontivy /Pontivy in the 19th century Renamed 2 times Napoleonville / Napolè onville. Roganov Castle XV century.

Port-Louis– the first base, outpost and warehouses of the French East India Company in the 17th and 18th centuries. East - East - L'Orient in French... that's right, Lorient! The port city of Lorient was founded opposite for goods from the East.

On himself Lorient /Lorient Allied aircraft dropped 4,000 tons of bombs, the city was under siege until May 10, 1945, and the largest German submarine base in occupied France at Keroman still stands (now it is the territory of an active fishing port). In early August, the modern city buzzes with beer and bagpipes during the annual Celtic music festival Festival Interceltique de Lorient.

Ile-de-Groix– another break from civilization. The name “Witch Island” is a mistake!?..

The area around the village Karnak /Carnac is deservedly proud of the largest concentration of megaliths and their diversity (menhirs, dolmens, cromleks, mounds) in the world! In the north of this popular beach resort alone, there are about 4 thousand large stones on 4 fields, erected approximately 4 thousand years BC. e., which stretch in confident “lines” for more than 4 km... Archaeologists, anthropologists and historians understand everything, it seems... but aren’t there too many fours in this strange legacy of the past?

Quiberon Peninsula /Quiberon. All year round The western Wild Coast of this former island-spit is open to the Atlantic and the winds. In its southeast and in the town of Quiberon itself there is a paradise for holidaymakers, for whom, in addition to beaches, campsites, shops, restaurants, hotels and villas, there is a Thalassotherapy Center and a Casino (as in neighboring Karnak).

Island of Belle-Ile-en-Mer / Belle-Ile-en-Mer is the second largest island in France after Corsica. “Beautiful Island” fully justifies its name not only for lovers of recreation and nature. Mighty citadel of the 17th century. (built, of course, by Vauban) rises above Le Palais, where ferries from the mainland arrive. The picturesque port of Sauzon has turned from a fishing port into a marina.

Many species of birds nest on the island of Belle-Ile (the Koh-Kastell ornithological reserve and the so-called Apothecary Grotto / grotte de l’Apothicairerie) and even menhirs – Jean and Jeanne. House-museum of Sarah Bernhardt in the old fort on the northern Cape Poulains / pointe des Poulains. At low tide you can walk through the beach of the same name to the lighthouse! Landscape hit – Port Coton, glorified by ZAZ and the paintings of Claude Monet.

Lokmarjaker /Locmariaquer– a unique monumental megalithic trio: the Table des Marchand cairn, the Er Grah mound and the largest menhir of Brittany... and planet Earth! True, now the Giant lies resting (he weighed 280 tons, and was 18.5 m tall), split into 4 blocks. There are dolmens, oyster parks and beaches by the sea :)

Town Ore /Auray and its old port of Saint-Goustan / St. Goustan on the Lok River / Loc’h.

Sainte-Anne-d'Auray / Ste-Anne-d'Auray– in Brittany, the main destination for believers and pilgrims after the appearance of St. Anne, Mother Mary, to the plowman Yvon Nikolazic on July 25, 1624. This and other scenes are recreated by the Musee de Cire l’Historial.

Wang(or Vann) / Vannes- the first capital of Brittany. Medieval fortifications, half-timbered old quarters, marina... St. Peter's Cathedral, where the Spaniard preacher Vincent Ferrier was buried in 1419 (after the canonization of St. Vincent (Vincent) in 1455).

Gulf of Morbihan /Golfe du Morbihan(“Little Sea” in Breton. The local Celts called the Atlantic itself the Big Sea) has 30-40 islands, depending on the tide. Among this sea of ​​private or uninhabited islets (“one for every day of the year,” as the Bretons themselves say), residential communities on the two largest islands of Ile aux Moines / Ile aux Moines - “the island of the Monks” (and they were on it) and Ile d'Ars (or d'Arz / Ile d'Arz - in Breton "Bear Island", but there were no bears here)). Does this suggest a trip on a ship or yacht with the possibility of disembarkation?!

Ruiz Peninsula /Rhuys. Castle of the Breton Dukes of Suscinio / chateau de Suscinio – 700 years of history. Yacht ports Port-Navalo and port de Crouesty. The mound, from which Caesar himself (Gaius Julius) allegedly observed in 56 BC. e. during a naval battle with the fleet of the local Veneti tribe. After this defeat of the Celts, Brittany quickly became the Roman province of Armorica (“Country by the Sea”), despite the resistance of the stubborn Asterix and Obelix.

Medieval fortresses and castles: Largoet/forteresse de Largoet, lock Josselin / chateau de Josselin (family nest Rohan dynasty), Plessis-Josso / Le Plessis-Josso…

Devout Plermel /Ploermel, where there is still a monument to Pope John Paul II (the work of a certain Tsereteli).

Kestember /Questembert(16th century covered market, St. Michel church and St. Michael’s cross-calvarium) – old Maletroit /Malestroit– and definitely Rochefort-en-Terre / Rochefort-en-Terre(included in the list of "The most beautiful villages in France"!)

La Gacilly /La Gacilly– the home village of Yves Rocher, the founder of the cosmetics group of the same name, where Yves Rocher opened his first factory in 1969. In contrast to the production of cosmetics and laboratories for the development of new products, the Jardin Botanique Yves Rocher is accessible to the average visitor. Also in the village, about 30 artists and artisans work openly in their workshops during the season.

La Roche-Bernard / La Roche-Bernard here is the already wide Vilen River, carrying its waters to the already close Atlantic. As proof - the number of ships and yachts in the port...

Department 44 Loire-Atlantique / LoireAtlantique. Formally, this is no longer the region of Brittany (since the Second World War, these regions were administratively cut off from Brittany by politicians), but historically - the lands of Brittany with its preserved traditions, culture, architecture, cuisine, etc.:

/ Nantes until 1532 it still remained the capital of Brittany (the powerful castle-residence of the Dukes of Breton is the first proof of this). Modern cultural, industrial and administrative center of the Loire Land region / Pays de la Loire and department 44. 6th city in France and the largest in the Loire. A sightseeing tour of the historical center or a thematic excursion tailored to your wishes.

Locks V Chateaubriand /Chateaubriant, V Clisson /Clisson And Gulen /Goulaine(where, in addition to the thousand-year history of the same Goulen dynasty, there is also an aviary with exotic butterflies))), were once part of the defensive line of the Marches de Bretagne of the southeastern borders of the Duchy of Brittany.

Castles of Ranrouet near Herbignac (restored by enthusiasts) and in Blanc /Blaine(private) as examples of military and civil architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Along the way, spoil the military with a gastronomic meal at the castle hotel Domaine de la Bretèche /Domain de la Bretesche near Missiyaki / Missillac (or - walk like that!? - spend the night right there)))

“Who are you and how did you live, Gilles de Rais?” (Gilles de Rais or Retz = Retz). Locks Mashkul (or Masheku) /Machecoul, V Pornic /Pornic or Tiffauge /Tiffoges in neighboring Vendée, Noirmoutier Peninsula /Noirmoutier and much more in the 15th century. was the domain of Gilles de Montmorency-Laval, a military comrade-in-arms of Joan of Arc. In the castle Shamtos /Champtoce-sur-Loire at 1405? The future Marshal of France was born into the light of day, and was executed as a heretic and pervert in 1440 in Nantes. We read Charles Perrault’s fairy tale “Bluebeard”, but even there the cat in boots cried historical truth...

Pornic– a calm port town on the Atlantic (the Thalassotherapy center will quickly make you forget Gilles de Rais and all sorts of horrors of his castle))) and a trip to Cape Saint-Gildas /pointedeSt. Gildas breathe the ocean.

Saint-Nazaire/St. Nazaire- a working port city in the Loire estuary. Today it is the most successful shipyard in France, where they build ships from the Mistral-class frigate (including the well-known Sevastopol and Vladivostok) to a cruise ship for the Caribbean. Only 11! In May 1945, the German garrison surrendered to the Americans after a 10-month siege, so there is no old architecture here, but a large submarine base on the Atlantic remains from the Nazi occupation.

Natural regional park Brier/parcnaturelregionaldeBriere north of Saint-Nazaire - a nature reserve since 1970. A network of canals connecting villages on islands between swamps and peat bogs, where Nature is queen, but people try to live, hunt and work in harmony with it. We can ride a punt, photograph houses with reed roofs, spot a nutria or a heron, eat an eel...

La Baule / LaBaule- “city of health”. The resort claims to have “the longest and most beautiful beach in Europe” (8 km of sea sand from Le Pouligan to Pornichet!) and is proud of its two marinas and Thalassotherapy centers. Hippodrome, 18-hole golf, opportunities for horse riding lessons, going out to sea, lying on the beach, health shopping... and what else is included in the concept of “Sea Vacation”?

Guerand / Guè rande– the historical core of the fortress town is today full of cafes, shops and souvenir shops, but is still proudly surrounded by the powerful walls of the Middle Ages, when the Atlantic still splashed at the feet of this port, which traded salt so profitably...

Salt ponds (or marshes/maraissalants) near Guerande cover 52 sq. km, where to this day “white gold” is traditionally evaporated from sea ​​water. And still working by hand! It’s easier to look at the geometry of the “storage” reservoirs, “concentrators” and the work of the salt workers themselves in the hot summer or in September. The pinnacle of their skill, taste and concentration of microelements is white salt “salt flower” / fleur de sel (for cooking healthy food Let's buy another bag of gray sea salt!?). A paradise for birds and ornithologists.

Peninsula Croisic in the north it is pressed by the Guerande salt marshes, the town of the same name Le Croisic is a yacht and fishing port, and the southern coast is left to the winds and waves of the open Atlantic (hence its name “Wild Coast”. For us, Côte Sauvage is even more magnificent in a storm!).

La Turbal / LaTurballe– local fishing port No. 1. When a fish leaves the depths of the ocean, having fallen into the nets of such a flotilla, in a few hours it can already be here on your plate))). Sea bass, monkfish, sunfish, cod, pollock, katran, stingray, red mullet, sardines, mackerel... and after oysters, mussels, shrimp or langoustines... Glory to the fishermen and gastronomy, but fight gluttony!

Brittany is a region in northwestern France. The region's territory makes up most of the historical province of Brittany. This ancient French province was located on a large peninsula in northwestern France, also called Brittany.

The region currently includes four departments:

• Ille et Vilaine, capital Rennes
• Côte-d'Armor capital of Saint-Brieuc
• Morbihan capital Vannes
• Finistère capital Quimper

The departments, in turn, are divided into small administrative units - cantons (201 in total), which include 1,268 municipalities.

Symbols of Brittany

National anthem: "The Ancient Land of My Fathers."

Motto: Better death than shame.

Breton flag: Created in 1923 by Morvan Marchal. The four white stripes represent the British regions and bishoprics -

• Leon,
• Tregor,
• Cornuai,
• Vannes region.

The five black stripes symbolize the regions and dioceses where Gallo is spoken:

• Rennes,
• Nantes,
• Malouin,
• Penthièvre.

The ermine was taken from the ducal banner.

Emblem: gorse.

Patron Saint: Saint Ives.

Geography of Brittany

The area of ​​the region is 27,208 square meters. km, the number of inhabitants is approaching 3 million, the capital is the city of Rennes (population - about 250 thousand people).

Brittany is part of the Armorican massif. This is the most ancient region of all that now makes up the territory of France: its history began even before the Paleozoic era.

The Atlantic Ocean washes 4/5 of the peninsula's perimeter, and its coastline is 3,000 km of shores of very varied relief.

Brittany is the westernmost part of France; it is on its territory that the westernmost points of the metropolis are located - Cape Pointe de Corsan on the continent and even further west the island of Ouessant.

Thanks to the influence of the ocean, Brittany has relatively mild winters and moderate heat in summer. Spring begins already in early March, but lasts a very long time, since warming increases very slowly. Spring is the most beautiful time of year on the peninsula, when gorse and gorse bloom.

The winds, fierce on the coast, are quickly moderated by forests in the interior of the peninsula.

In ancient times, forests covered the entire peninsula.

Gradually, large areas were cleared for farming. Later the forests were cut down for construction sea ​​ships and production of charcoal for metallurgical plants. Currently, only 10% of the total forest area has survived. Large forests are now mostly privately owned and rarely exceed 2,000 hectares in area. One of these forests (Broseliande) became legendary. But if you drive through the lands of the peninsula, numerous copses in the valleys and on the plateaus and tree-lined ramparts on the hillsides give the impression that you are in a real forest region.

In modern times, due to agricultural and industrial needs, the forests have thinned out - but still make up a large part of the landscape of Brittany.

History of Brittany

In ancient times this territory was called Armorica.

The first evidence of human presence in Armorica was found in the quarries of the Vilena Valley. They date back to the Paleolithic era (700,000 BC). We have very little information about that distant era.

In the 1st millennium BC. the people of Armorica have achieved enough high level development. They made weapons and tools from bronze. They not only consumed bronze products within the country, but also produced them for export. Armorica became a real crossroads of Atlantic trade. From the 6th century BC. The Celts began to penetrate here. They brought with them the secrets of iron processing. Gradually, various Celtic tribes gained a strong foothold on the island. The Veneti tribe was especially strong, the Celtic origins of which are still debated. Excellent navigators, they concentrated all maritime trade in their hands.

In 56 BC. The lands of the Veneti were conquered by Caesar. Armorica was part of the Roman Empire for four centuries. New cities were built and beautiful roads were laid. Then the barbarian raids began. First the Saxons, then the Suevi and Vandals plundered and burned Armorica. Under the pressure of the barbarians, the Roman legions were withdrawn from the country.

From 440 to 600 Several waves of migration of representatives of the Celtic tribe of Britons from the British Isles followed. They called their new homeland Little Brittany, or simply Brittany, and their historical homeland from where they sailed was called Greater or Great Brittany, which is where the name Great Britain comes from. The Britons, who now called themselves Bretons, came to a land where the Celtic population was heavily Romanized. The Celtic language was forgotten, the priests - the Druids - were exterminated. The Britons themselves were almost not Romanized, and retained both their language and their culture. They brought both their dialect, which is now called Breton, and Celtic culture to Armorica.

The Breton dialect extends from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire.

The Bretons moved east, constantly clashing with the Franks, and under the Carolingian king Charles the Bald in 851, Brittany received the status of an independent kingdom. The period of prosperity of the Breton kingdom ended with a struggle for power among representatives of the local Breton elite and internecine squabbles. The decline of the Breton kingdom was accelerated by attacks by the Normans. In 921, the French king Charles the Simple gives Brittany, unable to fight back, to the Normans. All noble Breton families left the country.

The Normans did not rule Brittany for long. In 837, the grandson of the last Breton king, Alan Barbetort, who had spent his youth in exile, returned to his homeland. He cleared it of invaders. But now Brittany was too small and could not claim the status of a kingdom. An independent duchy appeared here.

For five centuries, this small duchy bravely defended its independence from the claims of such powerful neighbors as England and France.

In the 15th century, the duchy was still independent and flourishing. After the defeat in the battle with the French at Saint-Aubin-du-Cormier on July 28, 1488, independence became quite illusory. And when, after the death of her father, his 12-year-old daughter Anna turned out to be the only heir to power in the duchy, she was forced to agree to marry French king Charles VIII, who sought to annex Brittany to his possessions.

Eight years after the death of Charles VIII, Anne of Brittany, who had failed to produce an heir, was again forced to marry Charles's successor, King Louis XII of France.

The last ruler of Brittany, Duchess Anne of Brittany, was the only woman to serve as Queen of France twice.

Anne sought to preserve the independence of the duchy, but after her death, Brittany became simply one of the provinces of France. Now the history of Brittany was closely linked with the history of France.

Sights of Brittany

Perhaps one of the most important attractions of Brittany is its diverse coastline.

It is incredibly beautiful: vast expanses, piles of boulders, rocks, dunes, sandy beaches.

Ebbs and flows... The sea either approaches the very houses, then moves away, sometimes for kilometers. Every six hours the landscape changes beyond recognition. You can follow these amazing and unusual changes endlessly.

The coast of Brittany is home to picturesque bays, headlands of rocky cliffs, port towns with fortresses, harbors with boats, oyster plantations and small fishing villages.

We will begin our journey along the coast of Brittany from the north-eastern end, bordering Normandy and called Côte d'Emeraude, which means "Emerald Coast".

The coast got its name thanks to the emerald waters of the Atlantic beating against it.

The Emerald Coast is ideal for those who do not like the heat, bustle and crowded beaches of the Cote d'Azur. You can start exploring the coast from the small town of Cancale, which is famous for its oysters.

Cancale is the recognized capital of the Breton oyster fishery. Shellfish, of course, are grown in other places, but the phrase “Kankal oyster” has been a common noun for more than a hundred years and denotes a product of the highest quality, so “Kankal oysters” will be offered to you everywhere, from Brest to Paris.

Otherwise, Cancale is a very small town, the most interesting part of which is the embankment with numerous restaurants and piers where fishing boats unload. At low tide, oyster farms are visible from the embankment, which occupy a significant area of ​​400 hectares.

People come here to enjoy the freshest oysters and other seafood dishes, walk along the cleanest sandy beaches, and watch the amazing changes that occur in the surrounding world every 6 hours during high and low tides. The tides here reach a significant height of 12 meters.

The best view opens from the observation deck of the cathedral. You can go on an excursion to the L’Aurore oyster farm and visit the oyster museum.

Not far away on the coast of the Emerald Coast is the city of Saint-Malo, where we are going.

It looks like a fortified peninsula, this mythical city of pirates.

It received its name in honor of Saint Malo. In the 6th century, monks lived here.

Medieval Saint-Malo is surrounded by powerful fortress walls built in the 12th century. It has everything: architecture, museums, beautiful sandy beaches. The windows of the houses of Saint-Malo look towards the ocean, as if trying to see those distant times when ships famous navigators went from here to the open sea.

Saint-Malo is located at the mouth of the Rance River. On the other side of the tidal estuary lies the luxurious Dinard. This respectable resort is called the “king of the beaches of Brittany.”

Ecluse beach in Dinard is considered the most luxurious of Breton beaches. Dinard is also called “Northern Nice”: its luxurious villas from the early 20th century were built in English, Norman, Gothic and kitsch styles. Dinard, with its beautiful promenades along the sea and flowering gardens, attracts the wealthiest people.

Hotels in the city are mostly expensive. The high-society ethos of the resort is supported by the annual English-language film festival.

Dinard has a Sea Museum, a Balneological Museum, an aquarium and a tidal station powered by surf energy.

There are 27 regions of France, one of them is Brittany. Due to the fact that Brittany is not at all similar to the French province, its popularity among tourists is not particularly high. This region of France has its own traditions, language, cuisine - more similar to English.

General information

Brittany is located in northwestern France on a peninsula. It is also called Brittany. Bretagne France is a medieval paradise, but with a modern structure.

At the moment the area is divided into 4 parts:

• Ille et Vilaine, capital Rennes.
• Côte-d'Armor, capital of Saint-Brieuc.
• Morbihan, capital of Vannes.
• Finistère, capital of Quimper.

The departments are divided into cantons - small administrative units (201 in total) in their structure there are 1268 municipal departments.

National Anthem" The most ancient land my fathers."

The slogan is "Death is preferable to shame."

The flag of Brittany was created in 1923 by Morvan Marchal. The symbolism of the banner can be deciphered as follows: four snow-white stripes symbolize the British regions and bishoprics. The five black stripes represent the regions and dioceses in which Gallo is spoken. The ermine was borrowed from the ducal banner. The sign is considered to be the gorse plant.

Saint Protector: Saint Ives

Geography of the province

The regional area covers 27,208 square kilometers and has a population of almost 3 million. The capital of Brittany is the city of Rennes, with a population of 250 thousand.

Brittany is component Armorican massif. This region is older than all the others that make up France today: its chronology began even before the Paleozoic era.

The Atlantic Ocean surrounded 4/5 of the borders of the peninsula with its waters, and its coastal border stretches for 3 thousand kilometers, with very different coastline topography.

Brittany is located in the westernmost part of France, and it is in this area that the most western points states - Cape Pointe de Corsan on the mainland and slightly to the west the island of Ouessant.

Due to the action of the ocean, local winters are relatively mild, and the heat in summer is quite moderate. Spring comes quite early - from the beginning of March, but it also lasts a long time, as everything warms up gradually. Spring is a delightful time of year on the peninsula, especially when the gorse and gorse are in bloom.

Harsh winds are rapidly softened inside the peninsula, thanks to the forests. In former times, the forest area was located throughout the peninsula.

Traditional cuisine

Undoubtedly, pancakes are considered a traditional dish of this province. Each region of Brittany has its own pancakes; they differ in taste and method of preparation. Salty pancakes are made from buckwheat flour and eaten with additives such as cheese, mushrooms, and ham. Sweet pancakes are prepared with wheat flour and sugar. Sweet pancakes are not eaten just like that; they are washed down with ribo milk (fermented milk) or cider.

The dessert, which at first glance looks like a Russian omelette, is called flan. It is made from milk and beaten eggs. Its most famous variety is farts-forn. For piquancy, cinnamon or vanilla is added, and prunes or rum may also be present in the dough.

The recipe for kun-amann came from Douarnenay. Despite the exotic name, it is essentially a layer cake with salted butter. After rising, the dough is coated with butter according to the principle of making puff pastry. Important! The oil must be of high quality and the dough must rest.

In Brittany, salted butter is added to almost all dishes and especially baked goods. Thanks to this, food acquires a special taste and is truly healthy. The special taste is provided by sea salt added to the oil.

Naturally, where there is a sea or ocean, one cannot do without seafood and fish. All diversity, including oysters, mussels, scallops, crabs, trout, eel, sea bream and many other species, is present in the national Breton cuisine.

A drink made from apples stored in canvas bags is called cider. It is divided into two types - sweet and dry. Cornish cider is the first product produced in Brittany to be awarded the Appellation d'Origine Controlee mark, which takes into account everything from the location of the apple harvest to the level of precipitation. The high-quality drink is produced in several other regions of France: Fouenant, Hennebon.

In Brittany there is a tradition of making a honey drink called chouchine. It contains water and fermented honey. According to legends, sheshen has magical qualities: it made the gods drunk and people became immortal. Nowadays it is served as an aperitif or after dessert, but you shouldn’t get carried away with it, because it’s alcoholic drink.

Attractions

What is there in this province? The architectural monuments are complemented by the stunning nature of the peninsula, creating the attractions of Brittany. France is rich in both.

Nature

We can say that the main Breton attraction is the diversity of the coast. It has everything: endless horizons, dunes, cliffs and sandy beaches. The ebb and flow of the tides deserve a separate description. The sea approaches the houses or ebbs far back. Every six hours the landscape changes completely. All this is so fascinating that it is impossible to take your eyes off. The coast of Brittany can awaken the artist in anyone. There are port cities with fortresses, oyster plantations, small fishing villages, and bays with boats. Exploring Brittany must begin from the northeastern part, called the Emerald Coast.

Emerald Coast

The emerald-colored waves of the Atlantic Ocean crash against it, giving the coast its name. This place will be primarily appreciated by lovers of privacy, tranquility and moderate temperatures. Its main attraction is the Cancale Canal, famous for its oysters. Cancale is the oyster capital of Brittany and has established itself as a supplier of the best quality product throughout France. But if you do not take into account oyster production, then Cancale is a very small city and there are not many places of interest to tourists. People come here to enjoy excellent oysters and other seafood, watch the tides, enjoy the cleanest sandy beaches, visit the oyster museum and oyster farms.

Saint Malo

There are many port cities on the map of France, but this one is special. It captures the essence of Brittany. Situated on an island close to the mainland and surrounded by ancient walls, it still retains the spirit of a medieval protected coastal city. From the protruding fortifications of the castle walls there are stunning views of the sea, the city and the neighboring islands. Below the western wall of the castle you can find a beach called de Bon Secours. It is perfect for swimming and is equipped with the necessary attributes, including diving boards.

Camper

Quimper is a kind of souvenir postcard of an ancient coastal town. Beautiful half-timbered houses and squares look like something out of a picture, as if they are transferred to the pages of books that everyone read in childhood. Place Saint Corentin and the Gothic cathedral of the same name invariably attract all tourists in this city. One of distinctive features of the cathedral - a luxurious and rich decoration of the doorway on the western side. Between the two towers of the temple stands a statue of the king. Opposite the temple there is a castle, decorated in Italian style, and in it is the Museum of Fine Arts. Paintings by many European artists are presented here. Not far from the cathedral, on the south side, is the Breton Museum, which houses a collection of local folk art.

Nantes

On the border with Erdre lies the oldest of the cities of Brittany and France - Nantes, which has considerable significance in French history. Nantes was the capital of the Duchy of Breton in the Middle Ages, where in 1598 Henry IV signed the Edict of Nantes, which granted independence of faith to Protestants. Due to its favorable location, this city flourished in trade in the 16th-19th centuries. In addition, this is also the University City, dating back to the 15th century. Today it is the heart of higher education and the sixth largest city in France. People come here to look at the Castle of the Dukes of Breton, surrounded by a garden and a ravine filled with water. This castle was founded in the 15th century by Francois II, one of the last rulers of Brittany. During the excursions, guests can see, in addition to the museum located in the castle building, the interior of the rooms, loopholes and the courtyard. In addition, the moat, castle gardens and walls can be viewed for free. Equally worth paying attention to is the Bufay district, which consists of half-timbered houses, winding streets and shops with French delicacies.

Rennes

This city is the capital of Brittany, as well as the financial and highly cultural heart of the region. You should start a walking tour of this city from City Hall Square, where the Town Hall, built in 1734, is also located. If you move east from the Town Hall, you will see the Breton Parliament, surrounded by 18th-century houses. Do not forget about the Abbey Church of Notre-Dame-Saint-Mélanie, built between the 11th-13th centuries, as well as St. Peter's Cathedral, the main feature of which is a mixture of different architectural styles.

Morbihan

This section of Brittany France is known for its beautiful landscapes and comfortable climate. The harbor is crowded with numerous small islands, but only two of them are popular among tourists - Ile aux Moines and Ile d'Art. This area was inhabited in primitive times, Morbihan is full of interesting stone structures and megalithic monuments - the oldest in the world.

Josselin

The whole town is a complete attraction, but the most important one is still the Josselin Castle. Built back in the 11th century, it was the property of the Rohan family for many centuries. The facade of this castle is an example of the Flamboyant Gothic of the Renaissance in Brittany.

Vitre

There are many cities in Brittany France that transport tourists from the modern world to the medieval world. But, nevertheless, it was the city of Vitre that was awarded the title “City of History and Art” in 1999, because it remained almost in its original form. Chateau de Vitre, built by Baron Vitre, approximately in the 10th century. It is believed that this castle is the most beautiful in Brittany; it houses a museum of medieval history, and tourists can easily enter the castle. Old City and spread out at the foot of the castle.

Dinan

All guidebooks and tourist guides recommend visiting this city. It is located between the cities of Dinard and Saint-Malo, on a hill on the left edge of Rance. This city is still surrounded by walls, preserving the character of Medieval times. This area is also home to the world-famous Chateau d'Anne de Bretagne. The castle now houses a museum.

Coast Emerald

This is the coast on which many of Brittany's famous resorts are located. France is represented here by Cancale and its oysters, Servan-sur-Mer, and Dinard, which is considered the most stylish resort.

How much does a trip to Brittany cost?

It is impossible to answer this question precisely, since it is all individual. It is worth considering the price of a tour to Brittany, transportation costs, food, prices in museums, etc. On average, we can assume that for a trip you can spend from 700-1000 dollars, if you save on something, and 1500- 2000, if expenses are not limited.