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11 Best Places In The West Of France To Visit

From the Bay of Biscay in the south to the Celtic Sea off the northern coast of France, there are so many beautiful and best places in the west of France to explore. For starters,  there is a huge mix of little towns and cities that’ll have you leaping to book a train or flight to this beautiful region. 

That being said, if you’re not too sure you can reach the best places in the west of France, you’ve also got a treasure trove of other things to do in France. For instance, the secret spots in Paris or the charming villages of Dordogne are just two of my favourites. France even has its fair share of stunning national parks and hikes in France that are beautiful to explore.

Okay, I’m starting to ramble now, but I really wanted to show you some of my favourite and best places in the west of France to visit. There really is so much to see.

Take a look, below, at the very best places in the west of France to explore. Have the best time. 🇫🇷

1.) Biarritz

Nestled on the coast of the French Basque country, Biarritz is a little gem that’s gained popular attention after European royalty started holidaying here from the 19th Century. I mean, if it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for us, right? 😉

Thankfully, you don’t just have to be royal or in line to a throne to visit, though I’m sure it would help. Once you’re here, make sure to explore; Rocher de la Vierge, stroll across Port Vieux Beach and explore Port des Pecheurs. It really is one of the best places in the west of France to explore.

Unique Spot: Oh, and if you’re a cheese lover (like me) make sure you don’t miss La Grappe a Fromages . You will be sufficiently stuffed with the best French cheeses. 

Easily up there as one of the best places in the west of France, Brest is a stunning city in the heart of Brittany . It’s the perfect place to learn how to sail, especially when it hosts the International Festival Of The Sea every four years.

Once here, make sure to explore; Cours Dajot, visit the Oceanopolis and stroll through the Musee national de la Marine. Alternatively, if you’ve not managed to gain your sea legs, take a wander through its harbour and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in all of Brittany .

Unique Spot: Its seafront (to learn to sail of course).

Read more: Best things to do in Brittany

3.) Bayonne

Bayonne is surprisingly close to Biarritz so you can definitely team up these two towns on a ‘double-date’! I hate to utter that cliche advice of ‘getting lost in its medieval streets’ but honestly, it’s such a little town that you’ll struggle to stay lost for very long.

One great experience is to hire a bike from Bayonne and spend the day cycling the coastline and exploring Biarritz too. Easy peasy.

Unique Spot: It’s little-cobbled streets filled with independent shops.

4.) Andernos-les-Bains

This small commune is oft-overlooked by many visitors to the west coast of France but is actually great to visit as it has one of the country’s loveliest coastlines. Recently, Andernos-les-Bains has also become known for its delicious oysters.

Take a wander across its shores and delve into its many shorefront restaurants and drink your weight in delicious French wine. It really is one of the best places in the west of France to explore, especially on a road trip.

Unique Spot: Anywhere that serves those delicious oysters.

Read more: Best things to do in Bordeaux

5.) Saint-Georges-d’Oleron

Visit the island of Oléron to explore some of its beautiful architecture and island life that time has seemed to have forgotten! You can even take a trip to the nearby Fort Boyard which is a one of a kind, French fortress in the sea.

Unique spot: Easily Fort Boyard and its timeless architecture. You can certainly hop on one of the boat trips that head across, but remember that it’ll take a hefty chunk of your time and might be a little disappointing if you’re not interested in the history of this building. 

6.) La Rochelle

This magical looking coastal city is almost 1,000 years – which can only mean one thing… lots of history and culture to explore. Stroll through the city and try to find some of the cities many 17th century passages and arches that dominate this pretty place.

Once here, make sure to explore; Vieux Port, explore the Towers of La Rochelle and see the Lighthouse of L’ile de Re. Also, if you’re looking for a little break from city life, check into the gorgeous Hotel de Toiras that’s around 10-miles from the city.

Unique spots:  Pop into the Restaurant of Christopher Coutanceau. It’s so delicious and they serve up the best local dishes. 

Read more: Best places in the south of France

7.) Saint-Nazaire

On the banks of the Loire River, Saint-Nazaire is a different type of town in Brittany to explore. Although the town is not as popular as other beautiful towns in Brittany, it’s a great place to start your journey down the coast whilst discovering the natural beauty that surrounds this region.

Once here, make sure to wander through the seafront (Front de Mer), see the Submarine l’Espadon and explore the Escal’Atlantic.

Unique spot: It’s beautiful coastline just outside the town limits.

8.) Barbatre

Barbâtre is a little district, perched on the eastern side of a little island. Attached by its very own road, this area is the perfect place to visit in summer to enjoy one of France’s most spectacular beach fronts. It really is one of the best places in the west of France to explore. 

Unique spot: It’s pristine coastal terrain.

9.) Guerande

Famous for its salt marshes, Guerande is the perfect place to discover a surprise French export (salt). 😉 Take a tour with one of the many local artisans that still look after these impressive marshes.

Unique spot: Salt. Salt. SALT!

10.) Quiberon

This little commune is based right on the tip of land that juts into the Atlantic Sea. With its rugged coast and small little coves, Quiberon is a geographer (and photographer)’s dream.

Unique spot: It’s dramatic coastline.

11.) Douarnenez

Pretty close to Brest, this small commune is a wonderful place to enjoy the unique culture of Brittany. Master your Breton language skills, take your walking shoes and enjoy this most beautiful of communes.

Unique spot: Its seafront restaurants chock-filled with fresh seafood from its harbour.

10 Amazing Places To Visit In The South Of France

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• October 30, 2022

10 Amazing Journeys Along France’s Western Coast

France’s western coast is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. There are many different ways to explore it, from a road trip along the stunning coastal roads to a leisurely cruise down the river Seine.

Here are 10 amazing journeys you can take along France’s western coast:

1. The Route Des Cretes in the Vosges Mountains

The Route des Cretes in the Vosges Mountains is a scenic and challenging driving route that winds around France’s western coast. This well-paved highway cuts through a winding terrain of forested hills and jagged mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Spanning over 170 kilometers and featuring over 22 different alpine passes, this road offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the French countryside up close.

Whether you’re an avid climber or just looking for an afternoon adventure, a drive along the Route des Cretes promises to be an amazing journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in France. So if you’re looking for some incredible sights and an unforgettable driving experience, look no further than the Route des Cretes in the Vosges Mountains.

2. The D-Day Beaches

Located along France’s western coast, the D-Day Beaches are an awe-inspiring destination for anyone interested in the history of World War II. Stretching across virtually the entire length of northern France, this vast swath of coastline is home to a network of stunning beaches and coves that saw some of the most crucial moments in the Allied campaign against Nazi Germany. Whether you’re retracing the footsteps of private soldiers or visiting memorials dedicated to fallen leaders, you’ll be swept away by everything these beaches have to offer.

From the vast, windswept sands at Omaha Beach to tiny fishing villages nestled amongst striking cliffs, each corner of this rugged coastal region offers a new and intriguing glimpse into our world’s darkest hours. Whether you’re exploring from atop a horseback or discovering hidden vistas on foot, there are countless treasures to discover along France’s western coast.

3. A Bike Ride Through the Loire Valley

There is something truly magical about biking through the rolling hills of the Loire Valley. Set amidst France’s picturesque western coast, this charming slice of the countryside is awash with bucolic vineyards, majestic chateaus, and verdant forests. Whether cruising alongside the peaceful banks of the Loire river or pedaling alongside historic monasteries and palatial estates, a bike ride through the Loire Valley offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the beauty and history of this iconic region.

For those seeking one-of-a-kind adventures along France’s stunning western coast, there are few journeys more rewarding than cycling down its rugged shoreline. From rocky cliffs and windswept dunes to quaint fishing villages and tranquil beaches, each winding stretch of road features a new landscape worthy of exploration. Cresting hills offer sweeping vistas across sweeping seascapes and striking rocky formations, while glimpses behind impossibly tall dunes reveal expansive white sand beaches dotted with surfers, sunbathers, and windsurfers alike.

If you are looking for an enriching escape where both body and mind will be invigorated by breathtaking natural sights and inspiring meditative moments, look no further than a bike ride along France’s Atlantic coast.

4. The Stunning Coastline of Brittany

Brittany is a region of France renowned for its stunning coastline and gorgeous seaside towns. Located on the country’s western coast, Brittany is home to many unique islands, bays, and inlets that are dotted with charming coastal villages and delightful beach resorts. Scenic hiking trails also run along much of the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline and verdant hinterland.

As one travels farther inland from Brittany’s beautiful coast, one will discover vast expanses of rolling hills, lush forests, and peaceful valleys. Here they can explore charming rural villages or venture through quaint cobblestone towns such as Rennes or Nantes. In fact, the area is known for its rich cultural heritage expressed through art, music festivals, theater productions, traditional food markets, and other cultural events held throughout the year.

So whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy an active exploration of France’s western coast, Brittany is sure to delight any traveler looking for an amazing journey along France’s stunning coastline.

5. The Picturesque Normandy Countryside

The picturesque Normandy countryside is truly a sight to behold. Rolling green hills and lush forests stretch as far as the eye can see, providing the perfect backdrop for a never-ending journey along France’s western coast. Whether you are biking along quiet country roads or walking along the beach, there is no shortage of beautiful sights and interesting activities in this magical region.

Not only does this destination offer breathtaking views of the idyllic French countryside, but it is also home to quaint seaside towns and charming coastal villages that have been firmly established in this area for centuries. From wandering through intimate art museums to riding horseback over rolling hills, exploring Normandy is truly an amazing journey not to be missed!

6. The Charming Wine Region of Bordeaux

Located in the southwest region of France, the charming wine region of Bordeaux is famous for its fantastic wines, beautiful vineyards, and world-renowned restaurants. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon amidst the rolling green hillsides of Margaux or discover a hidden gem tucked away in the sleepy town of Corciles, there are countless amazing journeys to be had along France’s western coast. So if you’re looking for a memorable vacation full of stunning landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and some of the best wines in the world, then look no further than Bordeaux.

Here you’ll find unforgettable experiences that are sure to delight all your senses and transport you straight into true French culture and charm. Bon, voyage!

7. The Medieval City of la Rochelle

Located on the western coast of France, La Rochelle is a picturesque medieval city with a rich history and fascinating culture. Founded in 1177 by Eleanor of Aquitaine, La Rochelle has long been an important port city due to its strategic location on the Bay of Biscay. Situated at the mouth of the Charente River, La Rochelle became a vital hub for merchant ships and seafaring adventurers traveling between Europe and the New World.

Today, tourists flock to La Rochelle to explore its charming old town, featuring winding cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies. Beyond the city itself, La Rochelle’s surrounding region also offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. With more than 350 miles of coastline, including breathtaking beaches and rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean, there are countless ways to experience la belle France along France’s stunning western coast.

8. The Beautiful Island of Corsica

Located in western France, the stunningly beautiful island of Corsica is a haven for travelers looking for unique and amazing journeys. Surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the island is immersed in history and culture, with ancient castles and villages dotting its dramatic coastline. Beyond its many charming towns and cities, however, Corsica is also home to breathtaking natural wonders like the fascinating Scandola Nature Reserve, where visitors can explore spectacular limestone cliffs that teem with marine life.

Whether one seeks a relaxing beach holiday or an adrenaline-pumping adventure trip, there really is something for everyone on the spectacular island of Corsica. So if you are considering an unforgettable journey along France’s western coast, be sure not to miss this incredible region!

9. The Glamorous French Riviera

The French Riviera is one of the most glamorous and exciting destinations in the world. Located along the country’s western coast, this region is known for its spectacular beaches, cool coastal breezes, and vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the beach or explore ancient cities tucked into rugged mountain terrain, a journey along the French Riviera will leave you with unforgettable memories.

From sailing along sparkling coastlines to immersing yourself in local culture and cuisine, each step of the journey brings new adventures and thrills. With so much to see and do, it truly is an amazing journey along France’s western coast. So why not pack your bags today and start planning your trip? Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, there’s something for everyone along the French Riviera!

10. Paris, the City of Light

Paris is known as the City of Light, a place where cultures converge and travelers from around the world come to experience its unique charms. Whether you are embarking on a romantic European getaway or touring France’s western coast with family, Paris has something for everyone.

The city is home to some of the most iconic attractions in all of Europe, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. These sites are must-see destinations for any visitor to Paris, regardless of your interests or level of sightseeing experience. Of course, no trip to this magical city would be complete without sampling some of its world-famous cuisines. With vibrant restaurants serving up everything from classic French fare to cutting-edge fusion dishes, there is truly something for every palate in Paris.

Beyond the city limits, however, lies another side of France’s fascinating western coast just waiting to be explored. From quiet seaside villages perfect for strolling along cobblestone streets and enjoying authentic cuisine, to exciting port towns filled with bustling bars and eclectic shops, this area has it all. And with picture-perfect views at every turn and miles upon miles of rugged coastline just begging to be explored by bike or footpaths winding through pristine natural landscapes that feel worlds away from modern civilization – it is easy to see why so many people come here looking for adventure in this amazing part of France.

In conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, France’s western coast has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine, this region is truly one of the most amazing places in the world. So why not start planning your trip today? You’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime on this amazing journey along France’s western coast!

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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15 Best Places to visit in South West France

Planning a holiday in France and looking for the best places to visit in South West France? We’ve got you covered!

South West France is so beautiful. It has so much to offer! You will find some of the most famous wine regions in France , stunning medieval villages, incredible natural landmarks and cute coastal towns .

I grew up in the South West and I know this region so well. It is a very underrated region. When people think of holidays in the South of France, they generally head straight to the French Riviera. Opting for a South-West France itinerary instead is a great way to discover a more authentic french region.

In this article, you will discover the most beautiful places in South West France. This includes famous sites but also some hidden gems!

So are you ready? Let’s discover the best places to see in South West France!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

Best Cities in South West France

South West France is a fairly rural region but you will find a couple of cities there. The biggest cities in the area are Toulouse and Bordeaux.

Toulouse is the capital of the region Occitanie. It’s nicknamed the pink city, “La Ville Rose” because of its red bricks and roof tiles.

If you look at a map of South West France, you’ll quickly notice it’s one of the most important cities.

Although it is a pretty big city, the city centre itself is fairly small. It’s very easy to explore it on foot. As you roam around town, you will discover how lively and friendly Toulouse is.

Here are some examples of things to do in Toulouse :

• Discovering Le Capitole. It’s the main square in Toulouse and is a great starting point. It’s home to the stunning city hall and luxury restaurants.
• Having a picnic at La Daurade. You can sit on the river banks and look at the beautiful views of the river Garonne.
• Visiting museums. The best ones are the Toulouse Museum and Les Abattoirs.
• Shopping in St Georges.  This central neighbourhood is home to dozens of local shops and boutiques.
• Going for dinner in the Rue du Taur . You will find many restaurants in Rue du Taur. Anything you can think of will be there. For drinks, on the other hand, St Pierre, Esquirol and Jean Jaures will be the best places to go to.
• Roaming around the city centre . The best way to explore the city is either by foot or bike. If you want to learn more about Toulouse and make the best of your time there, you can either go on a walking tour or a guided bike tour.

Click here for more information and see the latest prices.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOULOUSE:  The most convenient places to stay in Toulouse are Capitole, Jean Jaures, Carmes, Esquirol and Jeanne D’Arc. The Citadines Wilson Toulouse is great value for money. See latest prices here.

READ MORE: Where to stay in Toulouse (and places to avoid)

Bordeaux is the biggest city in South West France. Famous for being the main wine region in France, it’s also one of the prettiest cities you will get to see. Architecturally speaking, it features a very different style than Toulouse. Bordeaux is a whole new universe.

There are many things to do there and I would recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Bordeaux .

In summer, you will get to see the Water Mirror on the main square, La Place de la Bourse.

It’s also a great place to go shopping. The Rue Sainte-Catherine is a 1.2km pedestrian street going through the historical centre of Bordeaux. It’s literally a heaven for shopping lovers.

ACTIVITIES IN BORDEAUX: Bordeaux is a UNESCO Heritage site. If you want to discover why and everything that makes Bordeaux so special, you should go on a walking tour in Bordeaux.

Once that’s done, the second thing you must do is wine tasting! You can’t come to Bordeaux without visiting the wineries. One of the best places to go to is Saint-Emilion. You can go on a tour from Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion . It includes wine tasting and 2 castle visits! Pretty cool right.

Click here for more information and see the latest prices for the wine tour.

Albi is located about 1h away from Toulouse. It is one of France’s best-kept secrets and a must visit in the south west of France. Particularly known for being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Albi’s most famous attraction is actually the Cathedral Sainte Catherine.

But that’s not the only thing you can see in Albi. Make sure to pay a visit to the Old Bridge, the church quarter and the Saint-Salvi Quarter.

The rest of the city is also very pretty. It features a very authentic southwest style with a lot of red bricks.

ALBI TOURS: Going to Albi is a popular day trip from Toulouse. You can get there by train from Matabiau train station or opt for a private guided tour. Information and prices are available here.

Medieval Towns in South West France

If you love history, you will literally fall in love with South West France. There are plenty of medieval towns! Narrow streets, beautiful churches, historical sites… everything you want is there! Here is a lit of the best towns in south west France.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fortified city located about one hour away from Toulouse. This fairytale town is one of the most famous towns in the south of France. No matter what, make sure to stop there! You won’t be disappointed.

The Citadel, known as the Cite de Carcassonne, is the main attraction. This medieval fortress was added to the UNESCO list in 1997 and is truly remarkable. It’s such a magnificent place. You can visit it any day of the year. It’s a beautiful site and it takes about a couple of hours to visit.

The town itself is very charming as well and the perfect place to grab some food. The typical dish in Carcassonne (although they’ve been fighting with Toulouse over it for centuries) is the Cassoulet. You will find it in every restaurant in town. It’s quite filling but is as authentic as it can get. When it comes to French food , the south-west sets the standard really!

ACTIVITIES IN CARCASSONNE: Visiting the castle is a must-do. Entrance fee applies. You can book it in advance on the official website or on-site. If you are going in summer, it can get very busy and you may need to book it in advance if you want to be sure.

If you want to get more information, you can also add a guided tour. Click here for more information and prices.

If you are looking for some hidden gems in South West France, Figeac should be on top of your list!

Figeac is a medieval town located a couple of hours away from Toulouse. It’s also the birthplace of Champollion, who decrypted the hieroglyph and now home to the Champollion museum.

If you like architecture, you will love Figeac. You can see many very well preserved medieval buildings. Most of them are still in use and are up to 1000 years old.

It’s quite a small town (under 10,000 inhabitants) and you can get around the centre pretty quickly but it’s such a nice place. People are friendly and just roaming around town is an experience in itself!

When it comes to world famous places in South West France, Lourdes sets the standard. This little market-town lost in the Pyrenees is the third most important site of international Catholic pilgrimage after Rome and the Holy Land!

In 1858, Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

The grotto where this happened then became known for being a place where miracles would happen.

Since then, Bernadette was canonised and Lourdes started attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

ACTIVITIES IN LOURDES: Whether you are Christian or not, Lourdes is an extremely interesting town to visit in South West France. There is so much history! If you wish to learn more about it, you should go on a walking tour. You will discover the story of Bernadette, the grotto and the underground basilica! Click here for more information and pricing.

Coastal Towns in South West France

Biarritz is a very elegant seaside town located in the French Basque Country. It’s one of the European royalty’s favourite destinations. Napoleon, Princess Eugenie… many kings and emperor made Biarritz the town it is today.

The long and wide sandy beaches are gorgeous, which makes it a very good surfing destination as well.

We recommend going to the lighthouse. It offers a beautiful view of the beach and the cliffs.

Bayonne is another town in the French Basque Country. Very different to Biarritz, it’s characterized by its medieval narrow streets. It’s also home to the feria of Bayonne.

Every year in July, the festival takes up the whole city for 5 days. Just imagine a giant party with music everywhere and people dancing everywhere.

Every street, every bar, every square… that’s what the feria of Bayonne is.

Saint Jean de Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a fishing town at the mouth of the Nivelle river in the French Basque Country.

The cultural heritage in the town is very interesting but the best thing about it is nature.

You can go on many beautiful walks and get views on some of the most beautiful places in South West France.

Vieux Boucau

Vieux Boucau is a very charming village in the Landes, on France South West Coast. Ideally located between ocean, lake and forest, it’s the ideal place to relax!

Hossegor is located in the French Basque Country. It’s a paradise for surfers! It’s actually considered one of the best places to surf in the world!

While you are there, you should check out the beach La Graviere and the lake, Lac d’Hossegor.

It’s also a very good destination if you want to go partying. Summer evenings are very lively.

Beautiful villages in South West France

Rocamadour is located in the Lot and is also one of the prettiest villages in France.

Make sure to add it to your South West France road trip because this clifftop village is of absolute beauty. So different from anything else you might have seen in the past. The houses were built on the cliffs at the medieval times.

It’s also a very famous religious site as the gothic basilica St Sauveur is home to the relics of Saint Amadour.

Rocamadour is also home to some of the best goat cheese you can find in France.

Gouffre de Padirac

The Padirac Cave is located only 30 mins away from Rocamadour. They can both be combined in one day out if you wish. This chasm is particularly unique.

The entrance looks like a set from Jurassic Park. You will get down the stairs (75m) and then go on a little bark in the cave galleries.

The guide will explain everything and will then take you to more galleries by foot.

This is a very unconventional experience.

Moissac is a beautiful village, mainly known for its Abbey. This Benedicte and Cluniac monastery is pure beauty. Moissac is also one of the main stops on the route of Santiago de Compostela.

So, are you ready to discover the best places in South West France? Let’s go!

Saint Cirq Lapopie

This beautiful medieval village is one of the French favourites and has been elected one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Located at the top of a very steep cliff, Saint-Cirq Lapopie is a very unique place. You will find 13 listed monuments.

It’s a paradise for history lovers. A very picturesque village that you will fall for.

You may also be interested in:

• Where to stay in Toulouse (and places to avoid)
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Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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Unique things to do in South West France

• June 3, 2024
• 17 min read

Far from the crowds of the French Riviera and its glamourous atmosphere, the South West of France – which spreads across the regions of Occitanie and Aquitaine – is a lot more laid-back, packed with different traditions, cuisines and even languages such as Languedoncien, Basque or Gascon! It is an incredible place to visit for its variety of landscapes and historical heritage. From climbing the Dune du Pilat to visiting Cathar castles and Wine Tasting in St Emilion, the South West of France is rich in fun and unique experiences.

Here is a list of unique things to do in the South West of France, we hope you’ll enjoy them and find this useful to prepare your trip. Don’t hesitate to add your favourite place or share your thoughts with us in the comments!

• Climbing the dune du Pilat
• Hiking the Cirque de Gavarnie

Surfing in Biarritz

• Wine-tasting in St Emilion

Discovering the Gorges de Kakuetta

Roaming the beautiful villages of the basque country, exploring the gouffre de padirac.

• Road-tripping around the Cathar country

Cycling the Canal du Midi

Climbing the Dune du Pilat

The mighty Dune du Pilat is Europe’s largest sand dune, spanning an incredible 3km in length, 600m in width and rising 100m from the forest floor. These measurements are in constant motion with the tides and winds reshaping the sand with their powerful forces, but it remains an incredible sight.

Located on the Atlantic Coast in Southwestern France, the dune makes an easy day trip from Bordeaux or Biarritz by car, or a slightly more arduous one via public transport – you’ll need to take the train to Arcachon before continuing the remainder of the journey by bus. You can also join a morning tour from Bordeaux to Arcachon Bay and enjoy a nice stop at the dune.

If you are driving, arrive early to secure one of the coveted car parks. The parking lot is large but gets filled quickly in summer. Then wander through the makeshift “village” – a small cluster of souvenir shops and restaurants – at the base of the dune to where the temporary stairs will aid your ascent to the top.

There’s an unmissable view from the summit of the Great Dune of Pyla, encompassing the Arcachon Bassin, Landes forest and expansive sea views. Clamber down the other side for a refreshing swim, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, book yourself in for a paragliding session for a bird’s eye view!

If you have a few days up to your sleeve, stay at one of the on-site campsites or nearby hotels and you’ll be first to the top in the morning! You might as well want to climb the dune at the end of the day to watch the sunset from this unique place in Europe.

Hiking to the Cirque de Gavarnie

One of the most unique activities and places to visit in the South West of France has to be the Cirque de Gavarnie . This breathtaking destination is a natural amphitheatre in the Western French Pyrenees. It features the second-highest waterfalls in Europe (which you can walk to), breathtaking views, great hiking as well as horse and donkey rides.

The Cirque de Gavarnie is about a 2-hour drive from Toulouse, so it’s easy to combine with a trip elsewhere. You have to drive right up into the Pyrenees – expect to stop every 5 minutes to take photos – but the roads are good and fine to drive. The area is a ski resort heaven so in the summer it does mean not everything is open. Expect a LOT of snow in winter and some roads may be closed.

The access to the Cirque de Gavarnie is most preferred from Spring to Autumn. When visiting, make sure to allow time to do the hike up to the hotel du cirque (which is actually a bar/ restaurant). The route can be a little steep but it’s definitely worth it. It is easy to find your way but if you prefer, you can join a guided tour led by professionals.

Entry to the hike is free, although you do pay for parking in the high season. Get there as early as you can – it’s a popular destination and it can get very crowded. If you want to book a horse or a donkey ride, it might be best to do that in advance of the high season. Throughout summer, there are several B & Bs or hotels nearby for you to sta y at if you wish.

Biarritz is one of the most popular towns in the South West of France for its long beaches, hot summers, chilled atmosphere and great surf. Right on the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz which was once a hub for pirates and corsairs has now become a popular summer destination where tourists and locals enjoy surfing.

The main surfing spots in Biarritz are the “Côte des Basques”, “la Grande Plage” and the long strand of water on the north side of the lighthouse, in Anglet. Here, the waves are generally small at low tide and get bigger as the water comes in. If you are a beginner, it would be best to take a surf lesson at the Côte des Basques where you will find a few schools offering classes and rentals. This beach is however only accessible to surfers at low tide.

If you are too late to join the crowd at the Côte des Basques, head towards the Grande Plage. You will need to have your own equipment as there are no rentals or surf schools nearby. Be also mindful as locals and tourists often go for a swim at this beach due to its very central location in town.

Biarritz is easily reachable from Spain but also from Paris, Bordeaux or Toulouse via a dense and reliable road network. It is also only 15 min from Bayonne where most national trains stop. You can read more about Biarritz in this dedicated article .

Wine tasting in St Emilion

Wine tasting in St. Emilion is an absolute must when visiting Southwestern France. The town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can explore the area’s medieval history on the town’s free walking tour. However, tasting the city’s famous local white and red wine at one of the historic chateaux is an experience that is hard to top.

Plan your trip early and schedule your tastings ahead of time so that you are able to visit the chateaux you want. Tastings get booked up days in advance, so don’t wait until the last minute to get reservations. However, if you do get to St. Emilion without tastings reserved, go to the tourist office in the centre of town, they have a list of which chateaux have openings, and they can also make phone calls on your behalf.

Of course, if you decide not to visit a chateau, you can still enjoy local wine at restaurants and wine shops around town. Don’t worry, you won’t leave without the chance to try as much wine as you desire while you are here! You can stay in St Emilion for a few days , or you can visit on a day trip from Bordeaux. Even if you plan on doing wine tasting in Bordeaux , St. Emilion is an entirely different microclimate for you to experience.

>> Recommended wine-tasting tours in St Emilion

The South West of France is rich in natural wonders and one of the most beautiful natural sites is situated in the heart of the French Basque Country . Discovered only as recently as 1906, the deep gorge dotted with waterfalls was long hidden away in the steep Pyrenees until a curious speleologist found himself in a world of its own. Touted as an Amazon-like micro-climate, the Gorges de Kakuetta is a unique spot where the moss-covered cliffs are rarely touched by the sun.

The Gorges de Kakuetta is a beautiful day hike that runs 4 kilometres round trip and is easy enough that just about anyone can enjoy it. Wooden walkways attach to the soaring cliffs and a series of footbridges give visitors passage over the snaking stream that carved out the gorge millions of years ago. The highlight of the gorge is the 20-meter high waterfall, which visitors can even walk behind.

While it only takes around 2 hours to complete the hike, the drive to the gorges can be a bit longer if you come from the coast. But that’s a good opportunity, to make a road trip to the Gorges and discover the incredible landscape of the Pyrenees. So, pack a picnic, camera, and good shoes (the wooden walkways can be slippery), and enjoy the cool temperatures, beautiful crystalline waterfalls and gorgeous sceneries. Alternatively, you can stay close by in La Pierre Saint-Martin , the perfect place in the Pyrenees to base yourself and hike around.

One of the best things to do in the South West of France is to visit the typical basque villages built with traditional red and white houses. From the charming towns of Ainhoa, Sare, Espelette and La Bastide Clairence to the inevitable pilgrim stop Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port , the French Basque Country is in fact, exceptionally filled with pretty countryside small towns that you cannot miss if you are visiting the region.

Tucked between the Pyrenees and the Atlantic Ocean, in the southwestern part of France, these villages are nationally-known as some of the most beautiful in the country. They host exceptional craft shops, and art galleries, as well as local traditions such as many “fronton” to play Basque pelota and spicy red pepper fields known locally as “Piment d’Espelette”. However, despite their national reputation, you won’t find big international crowds unlike along the French Rivera, but this is probably for the best if you wish to spend a few days off the beaten path in the South of France.

The best way to visit and roam around the streets of these small towns is to rent a car and go on a road trip or take a couple of day trips from Biarritz or Bayonne. During your ramble, you’ll get a sense of the widespread Basque culture found in its cuisine, architecture, arts and craftwork. You’ll also have the chance to witness the incredible landscapes of this region.

The French Basque Country is fascinating. There are many things to do and see in the area. Get inspired by reading our articles such as the best hikes in the region and  our ultimate road-trip itinerary .

The Gouffre de Padirac is a vast chasm and fascinating cave system located in the far north of the Lot department in Occitanie, and a must-see if you are visiting this part of France . It’s hard to describe the sense of awe and wonder you feel when gazing into the chasm for the first time, effectively an enormous hole in the ground which leads through a series of tunnels into a huge underground cave system complete with waterfalls and its own river!

As you descend the metal staircase into the earth, the opening to the sky above becomes smaller and smaller and you start to appreciate just how insignificant you are! You’ll enter the first series of caves before following the route to the underground river, where a knowledgeable boatman will be waiting to punt you along for several miles before you start the climb through the largest of the caves.

All around you, are stunning stalagmites and stalactites formed over millennia and now beautifully lit to display their unique formations. As you wander and gaze at the beauty of mother nature, you’ll also enjoy the entertaining story of how the caves were discovered 130 years ago.

The Gouffre de Padirac is now a major tourist destination and booking online for an early time slot means you’ll miss the worst of the local crowds. There are plentiful parking and lots of places to buy souvenirs or have a meal after your trip. You can also spend a few nights in Padirac to visit the surroundings.

Road-tripping around the Cathar Country

The Cathar Country , in Occitanie Southern France, is an ensemble of historic sites related to Catharism – a religious movement that flourished in southern France between the 12th and the 14th centuries based on a different interpretation of the Gospels and renouncement of all material things. When the Catholic church decided that Catharism was a sect, it started to prosecute and exterminate its members until they totally disappeared from France.

The Cathar Castles such as Latour, Queribus or Peyrepertuse can be found in the countryside nearby the fortified city of Carcassonne – the most popular site of the Cathar Country. Because, there are so many other medieval villages, abbeys, and fortresses located at strategic points throughout the territory, the best way to explore the Cathar region is on a self-guided road trip or via a tour. If you don’t have your own car, you can base yourself in Carcassonne and rent a car from there. The city is easily reachable by train or low-cost flights.

The Cathar route can keep you busy for a week, perhaps more. If you are short of time and cannot visit all the sites, consider a minimum of three days to get a taste of the Cathar Country. Use the first day to explore the citadel of Carcassonne and then hit the road to discover three or four places nearby like the abbey of Lagrasse or the fortress of Montségur.

Did you know that the Atlantic ocean and the Mediterranean sea are connected by a waterway? The canal des Deux-Mers is one of the greatest achievements of the late 17th century. It goes from the Atlantic ocean to Toulouse by the Canal de Garonne and from Toulouse to the Mediterranean sea by the Canal du Midi . You can cycle the full length or just one section but also rent a “peniche” to enjoy a weekend on a canal boat! The latter is particularly incredible to do as you will have to navigate up and down through Locks.

The canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an activity that is becoming popular thanks to the great services and infrastructure aimed at international tourism. For example, some companies can transport all your luggage from one place to another while you cycle. There are also campings and hotels all the way.

During your trip, you can decide to spend a day in Toulouse aka the pink city that is one of the coolest cities in the South of France with great gastronomy and charming little streets. But don’t forget to plan time to visit smaller villages along the canal such as Le Somail which is one of the prettiest villages in the Southwest of France. Make sure you stop in Castelnaudary as well to eat a local “cassoulet”, a typical dish from South West of France made out of white beans and meat.

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SOUTHWESTErN FRANCE

You are planning a trip to the South of France and wish to read more about it? You will find on Tales From The Lens some great content to help you out.

More particularly, we have a lot of details about OCCITANIE |   Gorges de Galamus – Collioure – Cathar Castles BASQUE COUNTRY  |  All the things you need to know before a visit – BIARRITZ | Best things to do in the city – PRETTY VILLAGES | The most beautiful small town in the Basque Country – HIKING | 7 awesome trails to hike in the French Basque country – ROAD TRIP | 1-week itinerary around the French Basque Country – Best Scenic Drives in the South of France

We also have compiled a couple of articles with our best travel tips TRAVEL RESOURCES  |  Our best tips to prepare any trip – ESSENTIALS   PACKING  |  Our long term and outdoor travel packing list – BEST TRAVEL BOOKS | 60 travel books to escape and get inspired

If you want to rent a car in advance, we would recommend using Discover Cars . The best part about Discover Cars is that you get  full coverage for less than €7 a day! You can also compare all the companies in the market, choose the type of car you want and see all the most recent customer reviews before making a booking. On the website, you can easily narrow your search price to find the best deal within your budget.

BEST ONLINE CAR RENTAL COMPARATOR – DISCOVER CARS

When booking a rental car in France online, we recommend using Discover Cars because they offer Full coverage for less than €7. It is one of the best rental car comparators out there!

Easy and useful sentences to know in French

• Hello – Bonjour / Goodbye – Au revoir
• Thank you – Merci / Sorry – Pardon / Please – S’il vous plait
• How much does that cost? – Combien ça coûte ?
• I don’t understand – Je ne comprends pas
• I don’t speak (much) French – Je ne parle pas (trop bien) français
• Do you speak English? – Parlez-vous anglais ?
• Two beers – Deux bières / Pint – Pinte / Half-pint – Demi
• One night, double bedroom – Une unit, lit double
• Can you help me? Pouvez-vous m’aider ?
• I am looking for… – Je cherche…
• Do you have wifi? – Avez-vous le wifi? / Password – Mot de passe
• Where is the bathroom/toilets – Où sont les toilettes ?

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You may also like these posts

SOUTH FRANCE Most beautiful small towns

HIKING 7 best hikes in the French Basque Regions

TIPS What you should know before visiting the Basque Country

ROAD TRIP 10-day itinerary aorund the Pays Basque

ABOUT THE  AUTHOR

Jen  –  Owner, writer & photographer – has lived for the past 10 years across Oceania and Ireland while also travelling long-term in Latin America, North America and Europe. She has visited more than  60 countries  and set foot on every continent in the world!

>>  Favourite countries : New Zealand, Bolivia, Iceland. >>  Wishlist : Svalbard, Japan, Botswana, Alaska. >>  Philosophy : “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.

Jen is a coffee nerd, passionate about  photography ,  wildlife  and  outdoor activities . Her organisation and curiosity make her a great travel companion always looking for DIY and off-the-grid adventures. For more info, check out the About page .

If you’ve found this travel guide useful and want to say Thank You, you can now buy me a virtual coffee!

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I would definitely need to rent a car and spend a lot of time in southern France because I would love to see many of the out of the way places. I have recently been bike riding and that ride sounds amazing too. How long is it? Is it possible to bike one way and take the boat back?

We’ve not been to this region yet but it seems perfect for us, with the combination of architecture, outdoor activities and culture it would be great for us. Also love how varied even the outdoor stuff is like mountains AND surfing! Really cool!

I am head over heels in love with that picture of Cirque de Gavarnie. Horse riding in that setting in anticipation of the second highest waterfalls in Europe sounds heavenly. Our next France trip is all sorted, thanks to you.

France is so beautiful. We have not explored France beyond Paris and hope to see the other parts of the beautiful country. The South-West of France looks so inviting and these are some really amazing things to do. Each one of them have their own unique appeal, however some of them had my attention riveted. Exploring the Gouffre DePadirac, and Climbing the Dune Di Palat look really amazing activities.

I’ve never been to France, and I had no idea there are sand dunes this big there! They remind me of the ones we have in Michigan – Sleeping Bear Dunes.

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The Undiscovered and Splendid Corner of Southwest France

Tim Stocker Photography / Getty Images

In France's Atlantic corner, Southwest France has everything visitors have come to expect from a top-notch French region: a well-preserved history, fabulous wines, and beautiful rural vistas—plus the sunniest and sandiest beaches in France. Extending from the sparkling port city of La Rochelle all the way to the tremendous Pyrenees Mountains at the Spanish border , you'll find medieval cities, prehistoric cave paintings, and some of France's best vineyards.

Boasting more days of sunshine than most of Europe (an excess of 300 sunny days a year average in Montpellier , for instance), Southwest France is a great destination for spending your days outdoors, whether that means tramping through a national park or trodding through the vines. This region has more parkland than any other in France, including over 200,000 acres in the Pyrenees National Park alone.

France’s Atlantic coastline stretches from Poitou-Charentes in the north all the way down to the Spanish border. The beaches on this stretch of the French coastline are fabulous; long and sandy and running as far as the eye can see. This is the best region in France for surfing, particularly around the chic city of Biarritz , one of France's most popular seaside resorts, which is located right on the border and is only an hour's drive to the Spanish city of San Sebastian .

This region also happens to be one of the major places for nudist and naturist resorts, which are very popular with Europeans.

Port Cities

The main port cities of Southwest France are La Rochelle and Rochefort. La Rochelle is a delightful maritime destination and is sometimes known as the ‘White City’ because of the pale stone that was used to construct the two towers that guard the sheltered harbor.

Rochefort, on the other hand, was once a vital location for the French navy in the 17th century. The city is naturally protected by the Pertuis d'Antioche, a strait between two islands, so it made for the perfect shipbuilding center. This was also the place where the original L’Hermione was built; a warship destined to take General Lafayette over the Atlantic to help the Americans fight the British in the Revolutionary War . A replica of the ship can be found at the maritime museum.

Atlantic Islands

Rochefort is naturally protected by the beautiful islands of chic Ile de Ré , and the traffic-free, more rustic, Ile d’Aix, where Napoleon spent his last days of freedom. Both of these islands are celebrated holiday destinations where you can swim, sail, walk, and cycle around the coastline. Ile de Ré is accessible via bridge from La Rochelle, but Ile d'Aix can only be reached by ferry from La Fumée.

Bordeaux is a vibrant historic city, recently revitalized and now back to its former glory. The city is a wonderful place to base your vacation and has a very good selection of hotels to choose from. With this lovely city as your home base, you can easily spend a few days to a week visiting many of the world-renowned vineyards around Bordeaux .

In the city's immediate surroundings you can also venture into Cognac Country to the northwest, near Saintonge. Or to the south, visit the Landes, the largest continuously forested area of Western Europe.

The Dordogne

Inland from Bordeaux, you'll come into the Dordogne , a well known holiday region, particularly popular with British tourists. It’s a gorgeous region, centered around the unofficial capital town of Perigueux. It’s known for pretty villages, imposing castles, rolling landscapes, and its abundance of foie gras.

When in the Dordogne, you should visit the sacred site of Rocamadour, one of the stops for pilgrims on the route from Le Puy-en-Velay to Spain's Compostela. This village dramatically perched on a mountaintop makes for an incredible photo opportunity. The area surrounding the town is also apt for cycling, hiking, and cave exploration; the Padirac Chasm and Merle Cave are particularly scenic. Also worth visiting in the region are the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac that sit on a hill, overlooking the gently flowing Dordogne River below.

The Midi-Pyrenees

The Midi-Pyrenees takes in much of the province Gascony, an area of fortified towns and traditional French cuisine. As the region's capital, Toulouse is a city most famous for its university and also happens to be the home of aviation in France. From this area, you could also embark on a slow-moving barge cruise along the canal through the province.

The nearby city of Albi is recognized for its extraordinary, red brick cathedral and the impressive museum of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The French painter, best-known for his posters of the Moulin Rouge , was born in the city and spent much of his early life here. The museum is located in a former former fortress and holds over a thousand of the artist's works.

Edited by Mary Anne Evans

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7 Spectacular Adventures Along France's Western Coast

Think France is just champagne, croissants, and the Eiffel Tower? Think again.

A road trip up the Atlantic coast, from Biarritz to Brittany, reveals France ’s wild western edge, where water-sport opportunities abound and there are far fewer tourists than in the Mediterranean . Even if you’re not a lover of the sea, the dramatic coastal landscapes, delicious cuisine, and budget-friendly beach campgrounds are too good to miss.

Here are seven active ways to explore France’s stunning Atlantic coast.

Catch Legendary Waves in Biarritz

This is the way all French adventures should begin: straddling a longboard, huffing with sheer exhilaration after catching a wave in the famous birthplace of European surfing. Since 1957, when The Sun Also Rises screenwriter Peter Viertel visited the shore with a surfboard from California , Biarritz has continued to woo serious wave riders with its world-class beach breaks, rugged beauty, and year-round mild weather.

The resort town has ample surf options across nearly four miles of sandy shoreline. Rent a board or take a lesson at Tropical Euskadi on La Grande Plage , an iconic surf spot suitable for all levels. A short walk south leads to La Côte des Basques, where longboarders can find blissfully drawn-out peeling waves at low tide. When high tide rolls in (and the beach disappears all the way to the rocky seawall), watch the more experienced surfers in action while tasting traditional Basque cheeses with black cherry jam at Le Surfing restaurant. While you’re there, make sure to check out newly opened Maison du Surf , an artistic space dedicated to surf culture, and Lastage , where swim trunks are locally made from recycled plastic bottles and you can find reasonably priced longboard rentals. Grab sunset drinks at L’Eden Rock Café , tucked into a jagged cliff above Plage du Port Vieux.

Where to stay: At Hotel Saphir , a few blocks from the old port, book the terrace room overlooking the “white village with red roofs and green shutters” that Victor Hugo fell in love with in 1843. For a more authentic surfer experience, shack up in Campy Camper ’s fully-equipped 1972 VW Kombi Westfalia. Before waxing your board, check the surf report at windguru.cz or surf-report.com .

Paraglide Above Europe’s Tallest Sand Dune in La Teste-de-Buch

Miles from Biarritz: 109 On the Road: Two Hours

A group of paragliders flies over the golden ridges of La Grande Dune du Pyla.

Kick off your shoes at the edge of the Landes pine forest, and you’ll be met with mountains of silken sand and an abrupt silence. After a “bonjour!” and snap of a buckle, you’ll suddenly find yourself suspended 500 feet above La Grande Dune du Pyla, likely letting slip a few expletives into the warm calm wind. But you’re in good hands with the Waggas School , which has been offering paragliding flights from Europe’s tallest sand dune for over a decade. There’s so much to take in—and a mere 20 minutes to do it, but you’ll quickly adjust to the altitude and start absorbing the immense landscape with the aplomb of the resident dune falcon (who you may very well see flying at the tip of your wing).

Charlie, one of the group’s pilots, says paragliding is best on an overcast day with a few rays of sunshine illuminating the Bay of Arcachon and the two-mile-long, 300-foot-high Dune du Pyla. On a flight with Charlie, you’ll soar above oyster farms on the Banc d’Arguin Nature Preserve , the chic fishing village of Cap Ferret, and the Pyrénées range to the south—all before doing a totally-crazy-but-worth-it stunt. Book the Endurance experience and ask for “the wagga,” a series of acrobatic maneuvers that brings you swooping and diving close to the sand. Don’t forget to have a photographer ready below to capture your spectacular moves.

Where to stay: The Panorama du Pyla camping village provides a myriad of amenities—bike rentals, tennis courts, pools, laundry facilities, a crêperie , and a gourmet restaurant and mini market—and accommodations, including tent spots, cabins, and sea view cottages.

Ride Horses on the Beaches of Île de Ré

Miles from La Teste-de-Buch: 171 On the Road: Three hours

Horseback riders travel along the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean on Île de Ré, an island off the coast of France’s La Rochelle.

There’s plenty to do on this dreamy 19-mile island off the coast of La Rochelle —enjoy oysters at Cabane du Feneau , try merguez (a spicy North African sausage) crepes at Le Moulin à Café , explore the remains of a 12th-century abbey and charming maritime villages lined with bright pink hollyhocks—but making the most of Île de Ré’s under-the-radar beauty means getting up extra early to meet Iranian expat Ahmad Melodi at the Moulin Moreau stables. Melodi regularly leads two-hour rides that weave through unexpected wilderness and out to Plage des Grenettes, where he’ll shout, “Galop!” At his call, the thoroughbreds and Selle Français show jumpers your group is riding will begin cantering along the pristine beach and into the sea, where the splashing surf and chorus of neighs resolves any need for that cup of coffee you missed. Sure, you may have wet ankles and grains of sand on your tongue, but it’s worth reveling in this vast and empty shore (at least until your horse kicks at the waves, a sign he’s preparing to lie down). Morning beach trips are reserved for more experienced riders, while beginners can enjoy slower sunset outings that are just as breathtaking. Where to stay: Book a room at La Villa or camp right on Plage des Gollandières at Les Varennes .

Pedal France’s Longest Waymarked Bike Trail

Miles from Île de Ré: 126 On the Road: 2.5 hours

Tour de France cyclists race through the Passage du Gois, a pathway on France’s Atlantic coast that floods twice a day during high tide.

La Vélodyssée is a 745-mile cycling path that runs from Roscoff, Brittany, to the border of Spain. The full route is a multiday commitment, but travelers with limited time can get a two-wheeled taste of one of the route’s most idyllic sections in the western Pays de La Loire region, where the Tour de France is expected to stage the “Grand Depart” over the Passage du Gois causeway on June 30, 2018. If you play the tides right, you can pedal the same roads as the world’s top cyclists. Only instead of starting on the Passage du Gois causeway, which is connected to the picturesque isle of Noirmoutier and disappears with the tide twice a day, you’ll kick off your own mini bike tour 30 miles to the north.

In Pornic, not far from a historic medieval chateau and a Michelin-starred restaurant , pick up a hybrid or mountain bike from Vélo Retz Volt and head out along the mostly traffic-free trail, winding around canals and flat countryside, waving back at locals in their gardens. The French consider riding a bike to be one of the few simple pleasures in life, and that is especially true along the west coast of France, with its salty tailwinds and smooth roads flanked by grazing horses and wind turbines. Shortly after cruising through the lively Port du Bec, you’ll arrive at the 2.5-mile Passage du Gois causeway, certain to be the wildest (and windiest) part of the ride. Once on Noirmoutier, bike 15 minutes to the southern tip for panoramic views of Bourgneuf Bay and a glass of champagne with Vendée Atlantique Oysters at La Maison sur L’eau . The full out-and-back 60-mile trip should take roughly five hours; just make sure to download the route on your phone or GPS device ahead of time.

Where to stay: Enjoy unobstructed views of Bourgneuf Bay from your tent window at Camp Eleovic , one of several campgrounds in the Pornic area. The site offers an indoor heated pool, kids club, restaurants, laundry facilities, cruiser bikes, and free Wi-Fi.

Scuba Dive the Shipwrecks off Île de Groix

Miles from Pornic: 100 On the road: Two hours

The sun shines on the coast of Île de Groix, where visitors can scuba dive to explore World War II shipwrecks.

The Atlantic Ocean has been a constant travel companion these last 500 miles, and yet you’ve really only touched the surface of it. Often overshadowed by the more popular diving sites off the Glénan archipelago to the north, Île de Groix ’s haunting underworld is worth discovering. Roughly nine miles off the coast of Lorient , Brittany’s “City of Sailing,” Made in Blue leads certified divers to World War II shipwrecks, like the tugboat Cyrano and submarine hunter Chasseur 16. First timers are also welcome, and will start with a 20-minute intro class before pairing off with instructors on an exploration of Île de Groix’s pink and green coral colonies. Divers swim through jade-tinted waters with electric rays, schools of Atlantic horse mackerel, leopard-spotted goby, wolf eels, and even the almighty Mola mola, or ocean sunfish, the world’s heaviest known bony fish. Book the Baptême Mer option or the private two-person tour package.

Where to stay: As you’re in the “City of Sailing,” it’s only fitting that you sleep on a boat. Book the delightful “ Muscadet .”

Land Sail at La Torche in Finistère

Miles from Lorient: 75 On the road: One hour

Land sailors soar along the sand in Brittany, France, on the three-wheeled vehicles first popularized in France and Belgium.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

When visiting the coast of Brittany, one must do as the Bretons do: wear stripes, eat galettes de blé noir (traditional buckwheat crepes), and basically live at the beach. While La Torche is best known as a surfer hot spot, this wide windswept headland perched on the Bay of Audierne is also an ideal track for land sailing, a 119-year-old sport first popularized in France and Belgium that never quite gained traction in America. With some chutzpah and a good gust of wind, you’ll be able to get the three-wheeled Seagull MC2 zooming up to 25 miles per hour along seven miles of fine sand. Ecole de Surf de Bretagne La Torche offers two-hour sessions, which include goggles, gloves, a helmet, and a lesson. Though the speed record is 126 miles per hour, land sailing at La Torche is a safe and visually stunning activity suitable for adrenaline junkies age 10 and older. Refuel with a crepe pomme caramel (caramel apple crepe) in the garden at nearby La Crêpere de la Rayon Vert before driving five minutes south to Musée de la Préhistoire for a fascinating look at the area’s prehistoric findings, like the Neolithic burial site atop Pointe de La Torche.

Where to stay: La Torche campsite , which has earned an EU Ecolabel , offers chalets for glamping or more basic spots to pitch a tent.

Kayak the Sea Caves of the Crozon Peninsula

Miles from Finistére: 50 On the road: 1.5 hours

A kayaker paddles through a sea cave on France’s Crozon Peninsula.

The Crozon Peninsula’s spectacular nooks and crannies are tailor-made for kayaking. Rent one nearby at Le Spot Nautique and paddle out from the Bay of Morgat. Not long after your launch, you’ll reach the first of many sea caves. Gliding into Grotte Sainte-Marine and Grotte du Diable, ancient cathedrals of mauve rock best accessed by kayaks, you’re likely to conclude you’ve saved the best adventure for last. Spurred by whispers of a hidden paradise, push on a bit farther north, sizing up the vibrant moors and vertiginous cliffs , until you land on Île Vierge, the hallowed Virgin Beach. This intimate pebbly cove of bracing panoramas and translucent turquoise sea will be the trip’s most difficult place to leave. Linger as long as you can, nourished by memories of wild adventures—and the unknown ones still to come.

Where to stay: Enjoy terraced pitches overlooking the bay of Douarnenez at Camping L'Arimorique , situated half a mile from the beach and a 20-minute drive from the bustling resort town of Morgat. If you’re looking to splurge a bit on the last leg of the journey, book an oceanfront room with breakfast at Le Grand Hotel de la Mer .

Eco-Friendly Travel Tip: It costs just over $5 to offset the 0.51 tonnes of CO2 from this 631-mile road trip. Visit carbonfund.org to offset your trip by making a tax-deductible donation to carbon-reduction projects, such as reforestation and renewable energy. It takes only a few seconds to calculate the cost of your carbon footprint. (Just remember to keep track of your mileage as you go!)

Lauren Matison is a travel and lifestyle writer based in New York City. Follow her on Instagram @laurenmati or Twitter @LaurenMati .

Related Topics

• AERIAL SPORTS
• SEA KAYAKING
• SCUBA DIVING

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The Atlantic coast of France and its hinterland

► Getting to southwest France :

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Saint Jean de Luz south west of France Wikimedia Commons: Olivier Aumage CC-BY-SA-2.0-fr.

9 Reasons to Visit the Southwest of France

There are hundreds of reasons why you should visit the Southwest of France, but here are our top 9!

For many people visiting France, the Southwest region, which encompasses the Basque Country , will be the highlight of their trip. With beautiful landscapes and fabulous cuisine , there is something for everyone in this part of the country.

Yet, it is not just what first meets the eye that makes the Southwest of France so special. Dig a little deeper and you will find a rich history and fascinating cultural heritage, which permeates the entire region. Relics of what used to be can be found in the architecture and the traditions of the local people. So, open your mind and get ready to explore one of France’s finest regions.

1. The Culture of Food

If you have gone to France in search of some mouth-watering dishes then the Southwest will be paradise. This region is known for having a fantastic ‘ culture of food ’, with many of the dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients . The region produces a fair few different delicacies, a fact which chefs take full advantage of. Dishes you are likely to find on menus in this thoroughly gourmet part of France include foie gras (pate), cassoulet and Arcachon oysters.

A plate of foie gras ( Pixabay )

2. Truffles

When you talk about gourmet food in Southwest France, it is impossible not to mention truffles. The finest black truffles in the world can be found in Périgord, within the Dordogne region . These truffles are used to infuse oil, risotto rice and butter, which are then used to flavour meals. The taste is as unique as it is delicious. Those visiting this part of the country should take the opportunity to learn more about how truffles are harvested and used in cooking.

3. History and Heritage from the Middle Ages

There are quaint medieval towns dotted all over the Southwest of France, particularly in the Dordogne. Here, you will find remnants from the country’s Hundred Years War (which actually lasted 116 years) as well as a plethora of castles that date back to the Middle Ages, which you can explore. If your thirst for castles still hasn’t been quenched, take some time to wander through Cathar Country and admire the incredible fortresses that pepper its landscape.

 People exploring the inside of a castle in Dordogne ( Pixabay )

  4. Duck

One of the most gourmet of all the meats, duck is a big deal in the southwest of France. In Aquitaine, confit de canard – potted duck that falls off the bone – is a traditional dish that dates back centuries. While it used to be a dish for peasants, it has now been placed in the upper echelons of fine gastronomy. Another duck-based dish that has arisen from this region is foie gras, a staple in all French households at Christmas and other special occasions.

5. The Weather

One of the best things about the Southwest of France is the consistently pleasant weather . From March through to October you can be almost sure of sunshine every day, although in spring this comes intermittently with showers. The Basque Country enjoys what are known as Indian summers – that is to say, it stays particularly hot and sunny in September and October.

6. Lots of Beautiful Villages

There is an association in France called The Most Beautiful Villages in France . Just as you might expect from a name like this, the association comprises the most beautiful villages in France. The villages are judged on a number of criteria, one of the main ones being authenticity, and if they pass the test they are enlisted into the association. Today there are 157 villages that have been included in this list. Many of these beautiful villages can be found in the Southwest of France, including Navarrenx, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Aïnhoa and Sare .

Picturesque village along the river in France ( Pixabay )

7. Local Festivals

The Southwest of France is still, at heart, a very traditional part of Europe . This can be seen in the abundance of niche, local festivals that grace the streets every year. One of the biggest fêtes of the year takes place in the tiny village of Espinas and recreates the local custom of haymaking as it was centuries ago. There are also numerous farmers markets and livestock fairs , which give a good indication of the culture in this part of the country.

8. The Landscapes

From the sparkling blue ocean that laps gently on the golden beaches to the majestic slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains , this part of France is every photographer’s dream. Presenting some of the last vestiges of completely untouched nature, there is nothing better than rambling through the great outdoors, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the spectacular scenery.

 Bridge over the water in Dordogne ( Maxpixel )

9. Art de Vivre

Unlike many other parts of the world, the Southwest has refused to adopt the fast-paced lifestyle that is becoming increasingly prevalent around the world. The way of life here is slow and leisurely , with friends and family always coming before work. The atmosphere here, as a consequence, is laidback and the people are happy and stress-free.

Could you ask for anything more on your vacation?

TOURS: We invite you to see some examples of our Basque Country tours , Dordogne tours , and Carcassonne tours . All of these can be customised, based on your preferences.

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Travelers Reviews

I cannot say enough good things about Emilie and "France Just for You". We spent 15 days in France in June to celebrate our special anniversary and it was more than perfect. I found this superlative agency while browsing online, looking for a custom made trip to France that does not involve hopping on a tour bus with a large group of people, being …

I cannot say enough good things about Emilie and "France Just for You". We spent 15 days in France in June to celebrate our special anniversary and it was more than perfect. I found this superlative agency while browsing online, looking for a custom made trip to France that does not involve hopping on a tour bus with a large group of people, being stuck with a rigid itinerary or being pushed into tourist traps. I sent an inquiry to Emilie and she was quick to respond. From the minute we spoke I knew I had made the right choice. After a long conversation, she sent us a suggested itinerary that was 99% perfect from the get-go. We fine-tuned it, leaving room for some surprises. And surprise us she did! Armed with a 400-page custom-made guide book, we visited Paris, the Loire Valley, Burgundy and Provence. Her attention to detail is unmatched, leaving nothing to chance. She took care of everything except the flights. The accommodations included a cute and convenient boutique hotel in Paris, unbelievably charming B&Bs and a beautiful castle. All the important activities were pre-booked. Her advice was invaluable, from how to drive, which roads to avoid, how to speak and behave, where to eat, what to eat, what to visit, what not to visit, where to buy authentic souvenirs... We had fun chatting with our hospitable and generous hosts and enjoyed numerous adventures such as a bike ride, scenic walks, a truffle hunt, a cooking lesson and a surprise wine tasting and picnic, all at our own pace. Emilie was available for support all the way through our trip and immediately addressed a small misunderstanding with the car rental company at the end. Doing a trip like this on our own would have been virtually impossible. Only a professional, dedicated and passionate French native like Emilie, who has spent endless time and energy exploring France, could make this happen. Thank you Emilie for the best trip we have ever had. You have forever earned our gratefulness, loyalty and admiration. We are certain to return to France in the future, hopefully with family and friends and look forward to your excellent services again.

France Just for You - Emile and Laura - accomplished the task with skill and knowledge. Accommodations were excellent with lots of local color, suggestions for parking a large SUV were helpful, solving on the spot problems was handled with expertise and courtesy, sites were overwhelmingly beautiful. The guide book is the best. All the guides were …

France Just for You - Emile and Laura - accomplished the task with skill and knowledge. Accommodations were excellent with lots of local color, suggestions for parking a large SUV were helpful, solving on the spot problems was handled with expertise and courtesy, sites were overwhelmingly beautiful. The guide book is the best. All the guides were excellent, well informed, professional to a high extent, knowledgeable about subjects not in their area of expertise. They made a most enjoyable trip excellent. The cooking class with Oliver Laboute in his high tech kitchen and professional knowledge was the highlight of the trip, as he planned and executed a wonderful 80th birthday dinner. Best day was in Beauvais and visits to the WWI sites near Verdun. This was the second time we have booked with France just for you and will do so again in the future.

Cannot speak highly enough of our experience with Emilie and France Just for You. They attended to every detail and request. The B&Bs were welcoming and attractive - quaint and with modern conveniences. The table-d'hotes were very special and a chance to taste authentic, regional cuisine and wines. We were very thankful to discover this wonderful …

Cannot speak highly enough of our experience with Emilie and France Just for You. They attended to every detail and request. The B&Bs were welcoming and attractive - quaint and with modern conveniences. The table-d'hotes were very special and a chance to taste authentic, regional cuisine and wines. We were very thankful to discover this wonderful service. My husband has mobility issues and everyone was very accommodating. Also, felt it was good value. Bon voyage.

The best French experience Wonderful self-drive trip through France. The FJFY team selected wonderful lodging, arranged for all the activities that we were interested in, and made a complex trip very easy. The detailed guide book and app helped us chose our daily activities. The integration of the guide with gps navigation is brilliant, and made …

The best French experience Wonderful self-drive trip through France. The FJFY team selected wonderful lodging, arranged for all the activities that we were interested in, and made a complex trip very easy. The detailed guide book and app helped us chose our daily activities. The integration of the guide with gps navigation is brilliant, and made our back road and small town adventures a pleasure. Emilie’s care in selecting tour guides, B&Bs, and destinations made the trip uniquely enjoyable. Great fun in the cooking experiences, as well as restaurant recommendations. We heartily recommend France Just for You!

For our journey in the Loire Valley, we could not have hoped for more gracious, firendly and hospitable hosts. They made us feel like long time friends. It has been wonderful sharing this time with this French family and we hope we may meet again. The guidebook was totally professional and indispensable ! Aurevoir et merci beaucoup

My boyfriend and I spent a week in Paris last month and we decided that we would do a couple of day-tours outside of the city during our trip. We really wanted to avoid the typical tour-bus day-tour and the crowds that come along with these kinds of tours – we wanted something more personalized that would allow us to go at our own pace. I found the …

My boyfriend and I spent a week in Paris last month and we decided that we would do a couple of day-tours outside of the city during our trip. We really wanted to avoid the typical tour-bus day-tour and the crowds that come along with these kinds of tours – we wanted something more personalized that would allow us to go at our own pace. I found the France Just For You website and the ‘Bayeux and World War II Sites in a Day’ tour seemed to be exactly the type of thing we were looking for, as we’re both really interested in history. On a personal note, this tour appealed to me because my grandfather fought in Normandy in World War II. I filled up the contact form on the website and Emilie got back to me the same day. She organized every little detail to make it the perfect tour for us: she booked our return train tickets from Paris, organized for us to spend the morning on our own in the picturesque old town of Bayeux, where we enjoyed exploring the cathedral and saw the famous Bayeux Tapestry. Emilie sent over maps and directions and recommended a fantastic restaurant for lunch. After lunch, our private guide Christophe met us at the agreed meeting point in Bayeux and took us to the Normandy landing sites. I had explained to Emilie that I specifically wanted to visit this site as my grandpa had fought for one of the American infantry divisions that landed in Normandy in 1944. Christophe was extremely knowledgeable (and very patient with all of my questions!) and took us to the sites where my grandpa’s battalion would have fought. It was a very moving experience, especially when I thought back to the stories that my grandpa used to tell me about the war. I really couldn’t have chosen a better tour option. It was perfectly customized to the preferences that I had given to Emilie, and she was very thorough and asked all of the right questions to help her plan the perfect day for us. We knew how to contact her in case there were any problems on the day (which there weren't), and the fact that everything was planned for us meant that we could just focus on enjoying the day. Thank you so much, I wouldn’t hesitate to book with you again!

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The Best of Western France | Recommended Places to Stay & Visit

Featuring the regions of brittany , centre and pays de la loire, the best hotels in western france.

Explore our whole database of Western France hotels, B&Bs and other accommodation, with multiple filters to help you find your ideal place to stay throughout Western France. All listings are reviewed and ranked by our own independent travel experts.

The Best Bed & Breakfasts in Western France

Explore our whole database of B&Bs and other guest accommodation throughout Western France. All listings are reviewed and ranked by our own independent travel experts.

Brittany, a culturally rich region in northwest France, is renowned for its distinct Celtic heritage and stunning coastline. It boasts rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque islands. Brittany is famous for its megalithic monuments, medieval towns like Dinan, and the lively city of Rennes. Breton culture is celebrated through music, dance, and traditional festivals.

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a region of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visit the stunning châteaux, including Chambord, Chenonceau and Amboise, explore the picturesque towns and villages along the Loire River, and enjoy the region's famous wine and cuisine. Experience the charm and elegance of French country living.

Amboise, a charming town in France's Loire Valley, is celebrated for its rich history and stunning château. The Château d'Amboise, perched above the River Loire, was a royal residence during the Renaissance and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can explore the château, enjoy picturesque views, and delve into the town's medieval streets, offering a glimpse into France's regal past.

Angers, a historic city in western France, is renowned for its rich medieval heritage. The centerpiece is the formidable Château d'Angers, housing the famed Apocalypse Tapestry. The city's architecture reflects its history, from the half-timbered houses of the medieval quarter to the grandeur of the 12th-century Cathedral of Saint-Maurice. Angers is also a gateway to the Loire Valley, celebrated for its vineyards and natural beauty.

The Château de Blois features a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and classical elements. Visitors can explore its grand chambers, witness the famous spiral staircase, and learn about the intrigues of French royalty. Wander through the charming old town with its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and vibrant markets, experiencing the timeless beauty of this historic destination.

Bourges is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated for its remarkable architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can explore the well-preserved medieval quarter, enjoy local cuisine, and delve into the city's rich cultural heritage, making Bourges a hidden gem in the heart of France.

Brest, a coastal city in Brittany, holds a prominent maritime legacy. It's home to the impressive Château de Brest and the National Navy Museum, showcasing its naval history. The city also boasts a bustling port and the iconic Pont de Recouvrance bridge. Brest's proximity to the sea offers opportunities for water sports and exploration of the rugged Brittany coastline.

Chartres is renowned for its magnificent Chartres Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning stained glass windows and architectural grandeur. Visitors can explore the cathedral's interior, stroll through the charming old town with half-timbered houses, and experience the city's rich history, making Chartres a captivating destination for art and history enthusiasts.

Chenonceaux

Chenonceaux, a charming village in the Loire Valley of France, is famed for the Château de Chenonceau, an exquisite Renaissance château that spans the Cher River. This architectural marvel is known as the "Ladies' Château" due to its association with influential women in history. Surrounded by lush gardens and a romantic setting, Chenonceaux is a must-visit destination for lovers of history and architecture.

Concarneau, a picturesque coastal town in Brittany, is known for its charming medieval old town and its bustling fishing port. The Ville Close, a walled city within the town, is a highlight with its historic architecture and quaint shops. Concarneau also boasts beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination for seaside relaxation and seafood enthusiasts who can savor the day's catch in local restaurants.

Dinan, a medieval town in Brittany, is a captivating destination known for its well-preserved historic architecture. Its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and the impressive Dinan Castle transport visitors back in time. The town is perched above the Rance River and offers panoramic views from its ramparts. Dinan is a charming place to explore Brittany's medieval heritage and unique atmosphere.

Dinard, a coastal town in Brittany, is celebrated for its Belle Époque architecture, sandy beaches, and mild climate. It gained fame as a fashionable seaside resort in the late 19th century, attracting artists and aristocrats. The town's elegant promenade, Plage de l'Écluse, and vibrant Casino offer a taste of its glamorous past. Dinard continues to be a popular destination for relaxation and recreation.

La Baule, located on the Atlantic coast of France, is a popular seaside resort town known for its long sandy beach, considered one of Europe's finest. With a reputation for luxury and elegance, it boasts Belle Époque architecture, upscale hotels, and a lively promenade. La Baule is a favorite destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a coastal escape.

The city of Le Mans is renowned for its world-famous endurance race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Beyond motorsport, it boasts a historic old town with charming medieval streets, the stunning Saint-Julien Cathedral, and the Plantagenet City, reflecting its medieval past. Le Mans is also a centre for culture and education.

Nantes, a vibrant city in Western France, is rich in history and culture. Once a major port, it's known for its maritime heritage and the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. The city's transformation into a creative hub is exemplified by the unique Machines of the Isle of Nantes. It's also a gateway to the picturesque Loire Valley, famous for its vineyards and châteaux.

Orléans, a historic city in central France, is renowned for its pivotal role in the Hundred Years' War, notably the leadership of Joan of Arc. The city pays homage to this heroine with monuments like the Joan of Arc statue. Orléans boasts a charming old town with timber-framed houses, the majestic Orléans Cathedral, and the Loire River flowing through it. It's a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Perros-Guirec, a stunning coastal town in Brittany, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The Pink Granite Coast, named for its unique pink-hued rock formations, is a major attraction. Visitors can explore the stunning Ploumanac'h Lighthouse and the enchanting beaches like Trestraou. The town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and opportunities to appreciate the region's geological wonders.

Quimper, a charming city in Brittany, is known for its well-preserved medieval old town and its connection to Breton culture. The city's iconic Quimper Cathedral, picturesque half-timbered houses, and the Musée départemental Breton highlight its historical and cultural significance. Quimper is also famous for its production of hand-painted faience pottery, which adds to its unique character.

Rennes, the capital of Brittany, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historical charm and modern vitality. The medieval quarter, with its timber-framed houses, contrasts with the contemporary architecture of places like Les Champs Libres. Rennes is a cultural hub, home to theatres, museums, and the historic Rennes Cathedral. It's also known for its lively student population and thriving culinary scene.

Roscoff, an attractive port town in Brittany, is renowned for its historic charm and maritime heritage. The town's picturesque old harbour, with its colourful boats and seafood restaurants, is a popular attraction. Roscoff is also known for its medicinal seaweed baths, which have drawn visitors for centuries. It serves as a gateway to the nearby Île de Batz, offering natural beauty and tranquility.

Saint-Malo, a coastal city in Brittany, is celebrated for its impressive city walls and maritime history. The historic old town, Intra-Muros, boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Château de Saint-Malo. The city is known for its corsair legacy and the annual Route du Rhum yacht race. With its sandy beaches and bustling harbour, Saint-Malo offers a captivating blend of history and seaside charm.

Saumur, a picturesque town in the Loire Valley of France, is known for its enchanting setting along the Loire River. It's famous for its impressive Château de Saumur, which houses the Musée des Blindés, a remarkable tank museum. Saumur is also celebrated for its equestrian traditions, with the Cadre Noir, a renowned cavalry school. The town's charming streets, vineyards, and cultural heritage make it a delightful destination.

Tours, a city in the Loire Valley of France, is celebrated for its historical significance and cultural richness. Known as the "Garden of France," it's surrounded by vineyards, historic châteaux, and picturesque countryside. The city itself features medieval architecture, including the stunning Tours Cathedral. Tours is also a hub for gastronomy, offering delightful cuisine and fine wines to visitors exploring the region.

Vendée, a département in the Pays de la Loire region of western France, is known for its picturesque landscape and rich history. It features a diverse geography, from the lush Marais Poitevin marshes to the sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast. Vendée is famed for hosting the Vendée Globe, a challenging solo round-the-world yacht race. Its cultural heritage includes the historic Puy du Fou theme park.

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Rolling hillsides, rocky cliffs, towering cathedrals, and elegant chateaux – a visit to northwest France offers all of these and much more. This area is made up of the smaller regions of Brittany, Normandy , and the Loire with this guide featuring mainly recommendations for Brittany.

Rich with history, especially that which is deeply entwined with the south of England , this region has a long tradition of migration and trade across the channel going back to long before Roman times. This history has contributed to the unique culture and a landscape that bears the markings of centuries of struggles and triumphs.

With all of this history, culture, and a variety of coast and inland destinations, there is sure to be something for all visitors to enjoy. 

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week … or longer, here are eight great places to visit in Northwest France to experience the best the region has to offer.

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8 great places to visit in northwest france.

Places to Visit in Northwest France Map

The thing about the Unesco World Heritage town of Dinan is that it’s not exactly full of discrete places to visit. The entire town is the attraction for its ambience, its architecture, and yes, its food.

MUST DO IN DINAN:

• Stroll through the town : Dinan escaped the damage of World War II, and so today presents an uninterrupted medieval tableau of open squares, half-timbered buildings, and city ramparts that are worth crawling around. Spend some time in the Place des Merciers, the old commercial center of the city and while there, take note of the buildings’ small ground floors, topped with larger floors that overhang the street that make lovely space for a walkway, or maybe a café, and to keep you out of the sun or rain.
• Explore by bicycle : Take a long bike ride around the city, especially along the River Rance, which provides a much easier ride, and delightful views of the city built into the mountain above. There are churches to see, but, unlike so many French towns, these are not the main attraction. The Eglise St. Malo, however, is worth a stop for its beautiful windows.
• Savour the cuisine : Dinan, and Brittany, are more Celtic than traditional French, and the cuisine (and street names) are the main indicators of that provenance. The primary dish of Dinan is the   galette,   a buckwheat crepe stuffed with savoury delights. We tried them several times with such fillings as ham, eggs, gruyere, and onion confit with sausage, and smoked salmon. All were delicious, especially when washed down with the local cider or the local beer, Duchesse Anne   Triple. Some   of the restaurants that definitely merit a visit are the  Restaurant La Cale  at Plouer Sur Rance, where you’ll join the locals ordering the daily specials off the blackboard and enjoying the view of the river. Don’t miss the   Creperie Le Connetable , right in the centre of the medieval hilltop town, where you’ll pick one of the above-mentioned galettes.  Finally, if you’re looking for a little more elegance, try the  Le Cantorbery  for one of the best meals of the week. Though reservations are recommended, they often manage walk-ins in the upstairs dining room.

Contribution and Photo from Tom of   Travel Past 50

Reviews of Restaurant La Cale   |   Reviews of Le Cantorbery

Founded over 2,000 years ago at the confluence of the Marle and Vincin rivers which flow into the Gulf of Mor-Bihan or “little sea”, Vannes is a market town with a long history. Fortified by city walls, it was besieged in 1342 by both sides of the Breton War of Succession but escaped much of the devastation of the world wars allowing many medieval buildings to remain in the town centre.

With narrow cobbled streets and half-timbered houses within the walled city and a beautiful garden outside the east wall, this is a picturesque city that is great to wander around and soak up the history and architecture.

MUST DO IN VANNES:

• Cathedral of St. Peter : This Gothic church is one of the largest buildings in the area and the bell tower dates back to the 13th-century. Housing the relics of Saint-Vincent Ferrier since his death in 1419, it was made a minor basilica in 1870 by Pope Pius IX.
• Walk the City Walls:  Some of the best-preserved in France, the city walls of Vannes date back in places as far as the 3rd-century. Only a small part of the ramparts can be walked on for great views across the city, but be sure to view the magnificent gates that allowed access to the city too.
• Chateau Gaillard : Completed in 1410 as an administrative building, the chateau had several owners before being turned into a museum in 1914. With each floor covering a different period of history, the beautiful setting and the array of the collection make the museum a great way to spend a couple of hours

Reviews of Cathedral of St. Peter   |  Reviews of City Walls

READ MORE: Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in France

Situated on the Loire river, the port city of Nantes was once the capital of Brittany, though today it isn’t even in Brittany as the boundaries have been redrawn. The city grew as a thriving port trading in raw materials, goods, and slaves. The French Revolution and the abolition of the slave trade precipitated an economic decline until replacement industries such as ship-building were introduced.

Today a memorial to the fact that the slave trade financed much of the cities splendour is located on the waterfront near Pont Anne de Bretagne. A great way to explore the city is to follow the Nantes Green Line, which is literally a green line painted on the ground to follow for 14km past many of the cities sights, including the slavery memorial.

MUST DO IN NANTES:

• Machines of the Isle of Nantes : Located in the former shipyards of the Isle of Nantes, this artistic and cultural tourist attraction consists of magnificent mechanical machines such as the Great Elephant, which is 12m high and can take 49 passengers for a 45-minute walk.
• Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne : Anne de Bretagne’s castle offers visitors the urban history museum within chateau which from the city looks like a fortress but from the inner courtyard a stunning ducal residence. The museum showcases the history of the city including its role as a trade port, the French Revolution and both world wars.
• Passage Pommeraye : This beautiful 19th-century shopping mall was opened in 1843 and has appeared in movies such as Lola. Linking two streets together which are over 9m apart vertically, the mall has steps in the middle to change level before continuing. Even if you don’t want to shop, it’s worth a visit for the architecture alone.

Reviews of Machine of the Isle of Nantes   |  Reviews of Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne   |  Reviews of Passage Pommeraye

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in France? Check them out here!

Once a pirate’s haunt, the fortified town of Saint-Malo is now rich in cobblestone streets and amazing houses built by people who gained their wealth from their privateering in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Heavily bombed in 1944 when it was mistaken for an enemy base, the city was reconstructed and is now one of the most beautiful towns in France .

As well as the summer home of Jacques Cartier, the medieval pirates known as Malouins were the first to settle the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic, hence the Spanish name for the islands, Las Malvinas. An active port even today with ferry services to the Channel Islands and England , Saint-Malo is well worth a visit.

MUST DO IN SAINT-MALO:

• Fort National : Only accessible at low tide, this 17th-century fortress is located on a rocky outcrop just north of the city. Guided tours of both enclosures and the underground take you through the history of the fort and its role in the defence of St Malo.
• Citadel : Now the old town of Saint-Malo, the citadel was originally a granite island only accessible via a long causeway. This changed when the inner harbours were created and the town was connected to the mainland. Although the citadel looks old, it is mostly reconstructed after the devastation of the second world war. Today you can walk an almost entire circuit of the walls for great views of the town.
• Musée Jacques Cartier : The Manoir de Limoëlou was the summer home of Jacques Cartier, the man who discovered Canada . The guided tour of the home shows some of the navigational instruments Cartier would have used to traverse the Atlantic and the home is decorated in period furniture to show it may have looked when he lived there.

Reviews of Fort National   |  Reviews of Citadel   |  Reviews of Musée Jacques Cartier

On the edge of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO world heritage site, and on the Maine River, Angers was a medieval seat of power for the Plantagenet dynasty. The town is the perfect gateway to the Loire Valley as well as offering plenty of attractions of its own. 

The town is dominated by the impressive Chateau d’Angers with its seventeen towers and offers panoramic views of the city whilst the old town has half-timbered houses, including the Adams house with façade of carved wooden characters to the south-west of the cathedral.

MUST DO IN ANGERS:

• Chateau d’Angers : Founded over 1,000 years ago in the 9th-century, Chateau d’Angers has a long and varied history. Used for military purposes right through to WWII, the former Plantagenets castle now houses the oldest and largest collection of medieval tapestries in the world, including the Tenture de l’Apocalypse tapestry which depicts the Book of Revelations.
• Jardin des Plantes d’Angers : Dating from the 18th-century and containing over 2,000 varieties of plants, Jardin des Plantes depicts an English park complete with a stream, statues and winding paths through the park.
• Saint Maurice Cathedral: Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, this Gothic and Romanesque cathedral with its 75m twin spires is famous for its stained glass windows which date from the 13th-century, the same era as the painted wall depicting the life of St. Maurilius.

Reviews of Chateau d’Angers   |  Reviews of Jardin des Plantes d’Angers   |  Reviews of Saint Maurice Cathedral

Brest in the far north-west of France in Brittany is a maritime city with a rich history. During WWI it was a major disembarkation port for troops arriving from across the Atlantic and during WWII it was used by the Nazi’s as a U-boat base. Heavily bombed and almost completely destroyed during the battle to liberate it, the city was rebuilt once hostilities ended.

Today Saint-Malo Street, an authentic street from the 17th-century, is the oldest street in the city, while the docks and marina are a pleasant place to wander or people watch. Keep an eye out for the houses built on hills so steep, steps are required and where the 2nd floor of one house can be alongside the 1st floor of its nextdoor neighbour!

MUST DO IN BREST:

• Chateau de Brest : Offering over 1700 years of history, the impressive Chateau that stands today has buildings dating back from the 13th-century and was completed in the 17th. The fact it remains an active military installation, housing the maritime command of the Atlantic, makes it the oldest active military place in the world.
• Océanopolis : Take a journey through the world’s oceans, from colourful tropical fish to the largest penguin colony in Europe from the Antarctic and the creatures that live in the oceans along the nearby Breton Coast.
• Brest History Museum : Located in the impressive Tour Tanguy, believed to have been constructed during the Breton War of Succession, the history museum houses large dioramas to show the history of the city.

Reviews of Chateau de Brest   |  Reviews of Océanopolis

Overlooking Baie de La Foret in Brittany, Concarneau has been a major fishing port for hundreds of years and still catches thousands of tonnes of tuna each year. Visitors can visit the fish auction, cannery and sometimes witness the fisherman returning and unloading their catch. You can often catch fishing boats coming or going from Place du Petit Chateau, a green space within the old town.

For one week in August, there is the Filets Bleus festival, a costumed parade named after the blue nets the fisherman use and celebrating the town’s history with music and parades. A great way to get a feel for the town is to ride the Celtic train, this land train tours the town in 35-40 minutes during the summer months.

MUST DO IN CONCARNEAU:

• Ville Close : This walled part of the town on an island provided an excellent defensive position, with just a small bridge linking it to the mainland at the western end and a ferry at the eastern. Today it’s a great place to explore and a walk around the ramparts offers some great views.
• Chateau de Keriolet : Dating back to the 13th-century, the chateau was remodelled in the neo-Gothic style in the 19th-century by a Russian princess. Now restored to its former glory you can tour many of the rooms and the gardens of this impressive chateau.
• Musée de la Pêche : With fishing so important to Concarneau, this museum showcases the history of fishing from prehistory to modern day. Exhibits include the Hemerica semi-industrial trawler, a coelacanth, nautical charts, a coracle and more.

Reviews of Ville Close   |  Reviews of Chateau de Keriolet   |  Reviews of Musée de la Pêche

Accessible year-round by a 45-minute ferry ride from Quiberon for passengers and vehicles, this is the largest of the Brittany islands, but still relatively compact at just 20km by 9km.

With rugged ocean coastline on the south-west and pleasant beaches on the north-east, the coastline is quite changeable in a small distance. This has made it a popular place for artists including Monet and Sara Bernhardt to find inspiration.

Photo Credit: Martyn Wright

MUST DO ON BELLE ÎLE:

• Citadel : This impressively preserved star-shaped fort can’t be missed as you arrive at Le Palais. Founded in the middle ages it was rebuilt in the 17th-century by Vauban and today has been restored to its former glory. You can even stay here if you wish, as part of the fortress is now a hotel.
• Visit the Lighthouses : Being an island, protecting ships running aground was important and several lighthouses exist on the island. From Phare des Poulains in the northwest which looks like a small church with the lighthouse on the steeple, Phare du Goulphar which is like a defensive stone tower and Phare de Kerdonis, which looks like a small cottage with a lighthouse in the back garden.
• La Belle Fontaine : This beautifully restored historic monument is one of only two left in France . It was used to supply fresh drinking water to ships and could hold 850,000 litres of potable water. The semi-circular build of the cistern makes for a great photo, especially if the water is perfectly still.

Reviews of the Citadel  |  Reviews of Phare de Goulphar   |  Reviews of La Belle Fontaine

Looking for more information to plan your visit to France? You may find these articles helpful.

• 8 Great Places to Visit in Southwest France

Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in France

• 21 Things to Do in Paris

World War II Museums in Normandy

Map of places to visit in northwest france.

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO FRANCE

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• For all things France, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   France travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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Map of western France

Map of France western. Map of western France (Western Europe - Europe) to print. Map of western France (Western Europe - Europe) to download. From the Bay of Biscay in the south to the Celtic Sea off the northern coast of France, there are so many beautiful and best places in the west of France to explore. For starters, there is a huge mix of little towns and cities that’ll have you leaping to book a train or flight to this beautiful region as its shown in the map of western France. That being said, if you’re not too sure you can reach the best places in the west of France, you’ve also got a treasure trove of other things to do in France. For instance, the secret spots in Paris or the charming villages of Dordogne are just two of my favourites. France even has its fair share of stunning national parks and hikes in France that are beautiful to explore.

Map of France western

Best Things to Do in Brittany, France

Article written by Elisa This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Brittany (Bretagne) France

La Bretagne – Brittany in English –  is one of the most beautiful regions of France, with wild landscapes, historical cities, rich culture, and a strong identity. It is a region of tradition and character, where the stories of sailors meet the Celtic legends.

Brittany, in Western France ,  has a double face deeply rooted in both the land and the sea. Bathed by the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean , Brittany offers breathtaking coastal landscapes. It is also a land of medieval towns, mysterious rock alignments, and deep forests full of legends.

The region of Brittany is divided into four departments: Côtes-d’Armor (22), Finistère (29), Ille-et-Vilaine (35), and Morbihan (56). The capital of Brittany is Rennes .

Are you planning a trip to Brittany, France? Our list of best things to do in Brittany is far from exhaustive, but it has the essential places to visit in Brittany and the main Brittany tourist attractions.

Related posts

Brittany Travel

BY PLANE: Brest  (BES) and  Rennes  (RNS) are the 2 major airports in Brittany. It is possible to travel to Brest and Rennes from other cities in France and some cities in the UK such as London, Manchester, Dublin, Southampton, Manchester, or Exeter.

Find cheap flight tickets to Brittany

BY FERRY: Brittany is well connected with the UK and Ireland through the ports of Roscoff and St-Malo . The ferry companies serving these destinations are Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries.

Book your ferry to Brittany

BY TRAIN: Traveling to France by train is straightforward. The main cities of Brittany are served by TGV trains from Paris and the south of France (Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille). It is also possible to travel to Brittany by train from England, taking the London-Rennes or London-Brest railway line.

You can explore many other places in Brittany by regional trains (TER Bretagne).

Book your train tickets to Brittany

Explore Brittany by Car

Brittany is a great place for memorable France road trips . With a car, some good tunes, and the best company, you are set for one of the best adventures in your life. Visit the main cities and then go off the beaten path to get the most out of Brittany.

Recommended road trips in Brittany:

• Road trip Dinan to Mont St-Michel

If you don’t have your own car, we recommend booking in advance through platforms like Discover Cars . This site takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, etc., and compares prices for you.

Browse Car Rental Companies Available in Brittany

What to Do in Brittany France

What to do in Brittany France for one week or two? This is our list of the best things to do in Brittany, France. From coastal walks and Corsaire cities to impressive castles and deep forests, the Brittany Region is a myriad of landscapes and sites waiting to be discovered.

The Alignments of Carnac (Karnag)

The alignments of Carnac are located in Morbihan , Southern Brittany. It is an exceptional site of megalithic alignments of more than 3,000 menhirs over more than 4 kilometers. These menhirs, erected between 6,000 and 2,000 AD, are found in four sites: Le Ménec , Kermario , Kerlascan, and Le Petit Ménec .

Take the time to wander around the giant stones and soak up the special atmosphere of the site: perhaps you will find the meaning of all these alignments!

Before leaving, check out the Kermario alignment, not far from Carnac, in Saint-Colomban: archaeologists have found along the coast the oldest forms of habitat, 300,000 years old!

A Romantic Getaway to Dinan

If you are wondering where to go in Brittany for a romantic getaway, Dinan is a good option. Overlooking the Rance River and surrounded by ramparts, the old medieval city of Dinan still keeps its half-timbered houses of the 15th century and its winding cobbled streets.

Visit the Clock Tower, the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, and the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Then take Jerzual street, the most famous street of Dinan, which goes down to the port on the Rance River. This is the perfect spot for a drink with beautiful river views.

TIP: Hotel Ibis Styles , in the heart of Dinan, has always great reviews

The Pink Granite Coast

On the side of Perros-Guirec in the northwest of Côtes-d’Armor, the Brittany coast is dotted with rocks, cliffs, and coves in pink granite.

The best way to discover the Pink Granite Coast is by taking the 4 km section of the Sentier des Douaniers coastal hike (GR 34) that runs from the chic seaside resort Perros-Guirec to the village of Ploumanac’h. En route, be amazed by the rough sea, many uninhabited islets, and the reliefs of pink granite rocks.

When you reach the village of Ploumanac’h , voted the most beautiful village in France in 2015, spend some time on its beautiful and small sandy beach: when the tide is low, it is like walking over the moon.

Crozon Peninsula –  The Caribbean in Western France

Who needs to travel far away with such beautiful landscapes in Western France?

Forming a gigantic cross in the sea, the Peninsula of Crozon (Presqu’ile de Crozon) offers Brittany’s condense. Its landscapes alternate spectacular cliffs, heather moors, and turquoise waters. As you can see, these Brittany beaches have nothing to envy to the Caribbean beaches, except perhaps the water temperature!

The Peninsula of Crozon is best explored from the sea so that you can see Crozon’s sandstone walls and rocky overhangs. Boats leave from the ports of Camaret or Morgat.

The Castles of Brittany

Brittany is full of castles and fortresses, located on the coast but also inland. The Castles in Brittany don’t look like the castles of France we all have in mind, but they are also stunning constructions worth visiting.

Discover the history of Brittany – independent of the Kingdom of France until 1532 –  by visiting its most beautiful castles, full of legends. Some castles in Brittany even come with a phantom in the closet!

The list of most beautiful castles of Brittany includes Château de Rohan , Château de Kerjean , Château de Fougères , Château de Josselin or Château de Susscinio but there are many more!

The Sweet Life in Gulf of Morbihan

With its many islands and islets, its microclimate that warms the sea, and its sweet life, the Gulf of Morbihan is one of Brittany’s most beautiful landscapes to discover all year.

In this ‘little sea’ – this is what the word ‘Morbihan’ means – it is possible to sail or kayak to discover islands and islets protected from the vagaries of the ocean and some pretty Brittany coastal towns.

Among the fifty or so islands of the Gulf, Île aux Moines is the largest and best known, while the Île d’Arz is sailors’ favorite.

The Enchanted Brocéliande Forest

Inland, Brittany offers rugged hilly landscapes and majestic ancient forests, such as the mysterious and dark Brocéliande forest . This is a very authentic place, the forest where the famous legends of King Arthur, Morgana, and Merlin were born.

During your walks in the shade of ancient trees, you will have the opportunity to see some remarkable sights like the Tomb of Merlin, or the Tomb of the Giant and the Fountain of Youth, specially designed to illustrate the Arthurian legends.

Brocéliande forest is one of the best places to visit in Brittany, France, very easy to visit on a day trip from Rennes. For those without a car, we recommend taking a day tour.

Saint-Malo – The Corsair City

Saint-Malo is one of the most beautiful cities in Brittany, with an interesting past of sailors, sea explorers, and corsairs. It is an old port city, one of the main Breton ports, with high granite ramparts which dominate the English Chanel.

Take a tour of the ramparts to admire the view of the outer harbor, Dinard, the entrance to the Rance River, and the beautiful Brittany beaches of the Mole and Bon Secours . From here, you can also see the islands of Grand Bé and Petit Bé. Then walk downtown to pay a visit to its Romanesque-Gothic cathedral and perhaps stop for a crêpe and a bowl of cider.

If the tide is low, walk to Chateaubriand’s tomb on Grand Bé island. Originally from Saint-Malo, the famous inventor of Romanticism, François René de Chateaubriand , is buried on this uninhabited island which, at low tide, becomes a peninsula.

Saint-Malo is easy to reach from Paris by train. Some people use beautiful Saint-Malo as a base camp to explore Mont Saint Michel, in Normandy, on a day trip.

TIP: the beachfront Hotel Le Nouveau Monde , in Saint-Malo, always has wonderful reviews

Sail the Brest – Nantes Canal

Built in the first half of the 19th century and inaugurated by Napoleon III in 1858, the Nantes – Brest Canal connects these two cities through the valleys of the Erdre, Isac, Oust, Blavet, Doré, Kergoat, Hyères, and Alder.

The Canal is the perfect place to spend a long weekend on a houseboat, at a cruising speed of 6km/h – check out this boat trip itinerary with Le Boat France for inspiration. On the way, admire its wonderful landscapes, dotted with castles and other interesting sights.

Explore the Best Towns in Brittany

This list of the best of Brittany would not be complete without its most beautiful towns. Brittany is home to some of the best coastal towns in France , but there are many rural gems also inland. From small medieval towns stuck in time to flowered granite villages, places like Rochefort-en-Terre , Locronan, Moncontour, Sauzon , or Pont-Croix will likely steal your heart.

Hike the GR34 – Le Sentier des Douaniers

Last but not least, there is the GR34 (Le Sentier des Douaniers), a multi-day hike that borders all of Brittany’s coastline for over 2,000 kilometers.

This wonderful hike, which starts at the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel and ends in Saint-Nazaire (Loire-Atlantique), covers most of the Brittany coastal towns and sites mentioned above. On the way, hikers cross five French departments while enjoying the best of Brittany: great views, gorgeous beaches, and isolated lighthouses.

Food in Brittany

We could not finish this article about Brittany without mentioning its cuisine. The Breton Cuisine is a fresh mix of mackerel and sardines, pork rillettes, and Breton pancakes. The Breton cooks with what he has on hand: flour, apples, pork, and butter. Lots of butter. Perhaps this does not sound very sexy, but despite that, Brittany has forged a true culinary identity in France.

Being bathed by the Chanel and the Atlantic Ocean, Brittany obviously offers a wide choice of fish and seafood. To have a taste of it, order the Breton lobster, clams, and mussels, or a plate of oysters with shallot sauce.

Apart from the fish and seafood, the list of regional specialties includes:

• Meat: Kig ha-farz (a dish of meats stewed in buckwheat stuffing, like a pot-au-feu);
• Vegetables: Artichokes, cauliflower,
• Crêpes and galettes:  Breton crêpes, Breton galettes, sausage galettes;
• Cheese: Emmental
• Desserts:  Far Breton (a flan-style custard cake), Breton cake, Kouign amann (a layered, buttery pastry), and pound cake.

Brittany is not the best region for wine travel, but the cider is amongst the most famous french drinks , and the Breton beer and some of its liquors won’t disappoint you!

PRACTICAL INFO & OUR FAVORITES | BRETAGNE, FRANCE

The best time to visit Brittany is from June to September. August and September are the best months for those who want to take a bath (but don’t expect a water temperature higher than 18ºC!).

In general, avoid the months of December to March. In December and January, the chances of rain in Brittany are more than 55%.

Where to stay in Brittany?

• Best Hotels in Rennes
• Best Hotels in Dinan
• Best Hotels in Saint-Malo
• Best Hotels Gulf of Morbihan

>> Here’s a selection of wonderful hotels in the Brittany Region

What to do in Brittany?

• Sailboat and kayak
• Hiking, cycling, horseriding
• Beach, spa retreats
• Sightseeing, Romantic, Cultural and gastronomy getaways

And there you have it, the list of best things to do in Brittany, France. If you want to learn about other regions, check out this  article on the Regions of France , where we have summarized the highlights of each region.

Click here to Explore the French Regions

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