Beautiful Brittany

Brittany is rugged, dramatic coastline; it is glorious beaches and tiny coves; it is medieval towns and picturesque rivers; it is delicious cider and mouthwatering crepes. With its rich Celtic tradition and culture, this region has long been a destination of choice and this wonderful holiday starts with the overnight crossing to dramatic St Malo, the historic walled city and port, once the stronghold for privateers. Staying right on the Bay of Concarneau, explore Southern Brittany from the fortified town of Vannes to the corbelled masonry in old Quimper. Enjoy a cruise along the beautiful Odet River and a full day of leisure in resort.Wonderful 7-day tour to France
DAY 1 - After joining your holiday coach, you will travel to down to Portsmouth for time at leisure in England's favourite 'City by the Sea'. Take a stroll around Old Portsmouth and explore the cobbled streets and narrow lanes where press gangs plied their sinister trade. Or perhaps enjoy some retail therapy at the impressive Gunwharf Quays with over 90 premium designer outlets as well as the iconic Spinnaker Tower (entrance not included). Later head to the port to join your Brittany Ferries ship for the overnight crossing to St Malo. Outside cabins (two lower berths for two people sharing) and a 3-course self-service dinner with one drink (selected drinks) are included on board. Please pack an overnight bag for this evening on the boat as you will not have access to your main luggage during the crossingDAY 2 - After a night at sea, enjoy a (self-service) continental breakfast on board before docking in St Malo this morning. Spend some time at leisure in this amazing city with its rich seafaring history. Rising out of the granite rock, St Malo is a maze of medieval streets bursting with history and culture. The legacy of the dastardly pirates of the 19th century and the siege during the Second World War entwines with the bustling array of arty shops and the delicious smells from restaurants, outdoor markets and cafes, for a romantic atmosphere. 'Intra-Muros', the ancient walled town, forms the heart of St Malo where the stunning Gothic and Romanesque Cathédrale de St Malo dominates the skyline. Walking along its ramparts, visitors can see spectacular views of the town and harbour, including the islands and forts scattered out at sea.Later on continue your journey through Brittany to Concarneau to check into your hotel with a welcome drink on arrival for your 4-night stay. DBBDAY 3 - 5 At leisure in Southern Brittany with two included excursions and a full day in resort.nOn your leisure day in Concarneau you may like to enjoy time on the beautiful nearby beach (Plage des Sables Blancs) or stroll into the town (approx. 15 - 20 mins) to the lively marina and cross the little stone bridge to the 'Ville Close' (walled citadel) located on an island just 350m long x 100m wide. The best time to visit the walled town is in the morning as it does get very busy in the summer months. Rue Vauban is the main street and is lined with charming houses with old-fashioned signs in keeping with the town. A land train operates a route along the coast past the hotel to the old town (fare approx. €7 pp one way in 2024)INCLUDED EXCURSIONSnOdet River Cruise, Quimper & LocronannThis morning the coach will make its way to the seaside resort of Bénodet, where you embark on a circular river cruise lasting just over 2 hours along the beautiful Odet River, described as “the most beautiful river in France” by Winston Churchill! The journey, complete with guided commentary, will take you past wooded landscapes, numerous castles, manor houses and forgotten creeks. There is plenty of local birdlife to discover while cruising such as grey herons, egrets and sterns. After the cruise, rejoin the coach to head to Quimper, the cultural heart of Brittany. Strolling the streets of old Quimper is a delight with its half-timbered and corbelled houses. The city's crowning glory is its dramatic Gothic cathedral with its two superbly restored spires rising up to 76 metres. You may spot some ladies in traditional Breton costumes with the impressive high lace headdress. After time at leisure for lunch it's off to the exquisite village of Locronan, named after a revered Irishman who settled here in the Dark Ages. Its legacy stems from its later trade as a centre for sail-making, which brought the village prosperity and exceptional architecture. The village is full of history and has many little boutiques to explore.Vannes & Pont-AvennToday you will visit Vannes, the capital of Morbihan, one of Brittany's most important and picturesque towns. With its charming half-timbered houses, Vannes dates from the 16th century and its old town is a pleasure to explore, with something new to admire around every corner. Vannes is a marina, a fortified town, a medieval gem and a place of art, history and tree-lined quays where the vibe is cheerful and engaging. This afternoon make a stop at the pretty 'village of artists' and historical port town of Pont-Aven. This little town, nestled in the lush Aven estuary, owes its fame to the school of painters who had Gauguin as their master and as you stroll around it is easy to imagine why artists were fascinated by lovely Pont Aven. Historic watermills along the banks of the river provide a scenic backdrop to the town which is also famous for the invention in 1920 of galettes (butter biscuits).DAY 6 - After breakfast this morning, depart Brittany for the drive back north with a suitable stop en-route to your overnight stop in the centre of Amiens at the modern 3* Moxy Hotel Amiens Centre Gare. Welcome drink on arrival. DBBDAY 7 - After breakfast, travel back to Calais for the return Channel crossing to Dover and the journey home via interchange.

Tour Highlights
- Hotel for 4 nights in Concarneau with continental breakfast and dinner- Welcome drink in Concarneau- Tea and coffee after dinner in France- Porterage is not available- En-route visits to Portsmouth and St Malo- Overnight ferry crossing Portsmouth - St Malo with outside cabin- Self-service dinner with one drink (selected beer, wine or soft) on board- Self-service breakfast on board- Overnight in Amiens with breakfast & dinner- Excursions and visits as stated- Circular cruise on the Odet RiverBrit Hotel de l’Ocean, Concarneau
This contemporary 3* hotel is located within a 15-20 minute walk of the walled medieval city of Concarneau and enjoys a stunning position overlooking Concarneau Bay. All 71 modern bedrooms are equipped with TV, safe, free WiFi and hairdryer. The airy restaurant provides panoramic views over the beach and serves a choice of cuisine. There is also a heated outdoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and pool table. There is a lift. Dinner is served in the main restaurant at large tables of 6-10 with choice of main course (fixed menu on first night)nNB Porterage is not available on this tour