Holiday rentals Bretagne

Three iconic places to discover in Brittany

Brittany is home to a wealth of exceptional sites that tell the story of millennia of history and geology. From World Heritage-listed monuments and Neolithic remains to renowned coastal landscapes, the region offers unmissable destinations to enrich your stay. These three sites embody the peninsula’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

1. Mont-Saint-Michel

Majestically perched on its rock in the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, this medieval monastery has dominated the Normandy-Breton landscape since the 11th century. The abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates millions of visitors every year. You can reach it on foot during the spring tides, a magical moment when the sea recedes and reveals the bay’s sandy shores. This unique walk enhances the spiritual and aesthetic experience of the site, which you’ll discover as you wander through the cobbled streets and make your way up to the abbey church.

2. The Carnac Alignments

In Morbihan, the Carnac site boasts one of the largest megalithic complexes on the planet. Over 3,000 menhirs, dating from the Neolithic period, are aligned over several kilometres in enigmatic formations. These standing stones, which have fascinated archaeologists and prehistory enthusiasts alike, bear witness to the skill and beliefs of ancient peoples. You’ll wander amongst these silent monuments, pondering the secrets still held by these millennia-old stones.

3. Crozon Peninsula

In the heart of Finistère, the Crozon Peninsula boasts rugged coastlines and unspoilt beaches within the Armorique Regional Nature Park. Spectacular cliffs, hidden coves and signposted paths right on the Atlantic coast are its main attractions. Whether you’re a hiker or simply a lover of the countryside, this peninsula offers unforgettable escapes along the Breton coastline, where Breton nature reveals itself in all its splendour.

These three destinations embody the soul of Brittany: a magnificent history, prehistoric mystery and unspoilt coastal nature. A trip combining them all reveals why this region remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration.

The ideal season for booking a holiday let in Brittany

Each season transforms the character of Brittany. The rocky coastlines, sheltered bays and inland areas reveal different atmospheres depending on the time of year. Your choice of holiday depends on what you’re looking for: the energy of summer, the tranquillity of winter or the understated charms of the in-between seasons.

Spring. From April to May, Brittany comes to life. Gardens are in bloom, the days are getting longer and the weather is mild, without being too hot. The beaches start to attract walkers, but the seaside resorts remain quiet. Holiday rentals offer prime access to coastal walks and small fishing villages, still untouched by the summer crowds. The water remains cool, but the daytime temperatures are perfect for getting out and about.

Summer. From June to August, Brittany comes alive. The beaches are bustling, the outdoor cafés are teeming with people, and festivals set the pace in the coastal towns. A holiday rental becomes a real asset: it offers a peaceful retreat after a day by the sea, without having to rely on hotel opening hours. The days are long and children make the most of the coastline. It’s the ideal time for families, even if the crowds also start to appear on the roads and at tourist attractions.

Autumn. September and October mark a return to a more authentic Brittany. Shades of chestnut and gold colour the wooded countryside, temperatures remain pleasant, and the low-angled light brings out the contours of the cliffs. Holiday rentals offer greater tranquillity. The beaches empty out, the water remains warm at the start of the season, and walkers can enjoy less-frequented trails. It’s a prime time to explore the medieval heritage of the inland regions.

Winter. From November to February, the Breton coast reveals its power. Storms sculpt the rocks, the waves fascinate onlookers, and a certain intimacy reigns over the villages. Holiday rentals are perfect for cosy evenings by the fire, walks between showers and sampling the local cuisine. Accommodation is cheaper and the welcome from the owners is more personal.

Whatever the season, a holiday rental in Brittany adapts to your pace: total relaxation in winter, active adventures in summer, or peaceful explorations throughout the rest of the year.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Brittany

Brittany has so much more to offer than just beaches and crêperies. With its coastline, natural heritage and local cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here are three experiences that capture the essence of the region and deserve a place in your travel diary.

1. A boat trip to the Breton islands (Belle-Île, Groix, Bréhat)

Setting sail for the Breton islands is like discovering worlds apart. Belle-Île captivates with its wild cliffs and hidden coves. Groix surprises with its understated charm and coastal paths. Bréhat enchants with its pink rocks and colourful little houses. On board a cruise, you’ll sail between these gems whilst enjoying insightful commentary on marine life, local legends and maritime history. The more adventurous can even go ashore to explore an island before heading back.

Address: Port de Quiberon, 56170 Quiberon.

2. Hiking along the GR34 coastal path, the Tour de Bretagne

The GR34, known as the Tour de Bretagne, is one of the most beautiful coastal walks in Europe. You’ll walk along paths that follow the region’s contours, alternating between vertiginous cliffs, hidden beaches and picturesque little harbours. Every step offers a new view of the Atlantic Ocean. You can tackle short one-hour sections or set out on full-day walks. The villages you pass along the way welcome walkers with country cafés where you can catch your breath.

Address: GR34, from Saint-Malo to Loctudy, Brittany.

3. Oyster and seafood tasting at a local oyster farm

Cancale is the undisputed oyster capital of Brittany. Head straight to a producer to taste the seafood straight from the source. The oyster farmer will explain their craft, their farming techniques and the different varieties they cultivate. Tasting a freshly shucked oyster by the water’s edge is nothing like a plate served in a restaurant. The briny aromas, the melt-in-the-mouth texture, the flavour of the ocean: everything comes through more intensely. A simple, authentic and delicious experience.

Address: Port de la Houle, 35260 Cancale.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Brittany

When choosing a holiday rental in Brittany, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its location. Travellers look for facilities that make everyday life easier and transform a simple place to stay into a real haven of relaxation. Here are the facilities that our Breton hosts most often provide, and which make all the difference.

• Fully equipped kitchen: cooking your own meals allows you to sample local produce and share moments with family or friends around the table.
• Washing machine: essential for longer stays, especially with children or after a day at the beach when clothes are soaked in salt water.
• Efficient heating: in Brittany, winters are damp and the seasonal transitions are cool, hence the importance of a reliable heating system all year round.
• Direct access to the beach or close to the coast: this is often the top priority for families and swimming enthusiasts who want to make the most of the Breton coast.
• Private parking or nearby: exploring the region by car requires secure and convenient parking, without having to navigate narrow streets.
• Terrace or garden: an outdoor space offers privacy and allows you to make the most of sunny days for pre-dinner drinks or for the children to play.
• Wi-Fi and internet access: even on holiday, staying connected gives parents peace of mind and allows them to check cultural events or the weather forecast.
• Television and DVD player: for rainy evenings – which are common by the seaside – or to provide the children with entertainment after a day’s activities.
• Bed linen and towels provided: a convenience that saves you from having to carry bulky laundry and guarantees impeccable cleanliness.
• Barbecue or plancha: a staple of Breton social life, this type of outdoor equipment creates memorable moments of togetherness.

A well-equipped holiday rental can be tailored to the type of holiday you’re planning, the number of people and your budget. Brittany has something to suit every need, from coastal studios to large family homes in the countryside.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Brittany?

Prices for holiday rentals in Brittany vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 400 and 700 euros a week in the low season, and between 600 and 1,000 euros in the high season. A family property with three to four bedrooms tends to cost between 800 and 1,400 euros a week outside July and August, and between 1,200 and 2,000 euros during the summer holidays. More spacious houses or upmarket rentals often exceed 2,000 euros a week during the tourist season.

Several factors affect these price ranges. Proximity to the coast drives up prices, particularly around seaside resorts or picturesque fishing ports. A holiday let further inland, in a rural area or on the outskirts of a town, remains more affordable. The length of stay also plays a part: discounted rates for weekly or fortnightly stays offer better value than a single night’s stay. The standard of facilities (swimming pool, garden, sea view, new appliances) also influences the price quoted.

Seasonal factors have a significant impact on prices in Brittany. July and August see the highest rates. School holiday periods (spring, All Saints’ Day, Christmas) experience significant price rises. Winter and non-holiday weeks offer the best prices. To keep your budget under control, comparing several offers and reading reviews from previous guests will help you assess value for money. Booking several months in advance for the summer period ensures you secure your choice at the best available rate.