Villas in Brittany, France

Sightseeing in Brittany is all about exploring grand châteaus and settlements where time seems to have stood still for centuries. There are over 4,000 castles and manor houses here, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. For all your fairytale fantasies, check out Combourg Castle with its photogenic turrets, or stroll through the charming medieval villages of Locronan and Saint-Suliac. You’ll also discover military strongholds, with the coastal fort at Saint-Malo being one of the most visited.

There are around 3,000 standing stones in the region, which means our villas in Brittany are never far from a mysterious ancient site. Budding archaeologists can explore megaliths in Carnac and uncover the legacy of the Neolithic period. Fortified towns and medieval castles have kept Brittany’s architectural heritage alive for centuries, while lingering Celtic influences can be experienced at local music festivals. You might even hear the historic Breton language being spoken by the older generations.

If you can bear to tear yourself away from the pool, you’ll discover dozens of pristine beaches just a stone’s throw from your villa’s front door. All along the coast, pink granite coves harbour inviting turquoise water, while the white sandy swathes are fringed with fragrant pine forests. Families love Plage de l’Écluse in Dinard for safe swimming, while those seeking seclusion should head to the wild Crozen Peninsula for unspoilt beaches and hidden bays.

Brittany’s gastronomic scene is reason alone to visit this part of France. Affectionally known as “cider country”, Brittany knows a thing or two about the humble apple. Try the Cornouaille or Melenig ciders, along with the crêpes and galettes that have put this area on the culinary map. Our villas in Brittany are close to the coast, where fresh fish is the pièce de résistance on most restaurant menus. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will love the Far Breton, a traditional custard flan made from an 18th-century recipe.

• Visit Dinan, one of the best-preserved historic towns in Brittany, and stroll along the Rue du Petit Fort for your fill of half-timbered houses and art galleries.

• For that quintessential Robinson Crusoe vibe, head to Les Canons on the island of Belle-Ile and enjoy a day of barefoot beach bliss.

• Our Brittany villas are well placed for easy coastal access, so a trip to Saint-Malo is a must. You can explore the old town ramparts and walk to the islet of Grand Bé at low tide

• Follow the “Route du Cidre” from Le Faou to Riec-sur-Bélon to discover the secrets behind Brittany’s cider-making prowess, stopping for tours and tastings along the way.

• Let your hair down at the Inter-Celtic music festival in the city of Lorent, which is held in August each year. This is your chance to learn how to sing and dance, Breton style.