With over 2860 km of coastline, the region of Brittany (Bretagne / Breizh) in Northwestern France is the ultimate seaside getaway for those seeking untamed coastal landscapes, wild beaches, charming port towns, and vibrant medieval cities bursting with colorful half-timbered houses and gothic cathedrals.
Bounded by the English Channel to the north, the Iroise Sea to the west, and the Bay of Biscay to the south, Brittany’s economy, history, and identity has been shaped by its proximity to the sea.
Undoubtedly, the focus of any trip to Bretagne will be the glorious Breton coast. Brittany’s vast coastline alternates between rugged gorse-covered cliffs, granite-studded bays, crescent beaches, and sandy dunes.
The region’s natural spendor is further enhanced by towering lighthouses, ancient megalithic alignments, and medieval fortifications. If that sounds romantic, rest assured, it is.
Even cities and towns that appear to be inland, are in fact linked to the sea. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the coast of Brittany is deeply indented with estuaries. Places like Vannes, Quimper, and Morlaix are all located at the heads of estuaries.
The most difficult part about planning a trip to Brittany is identifying which areas to prioritize. This guide will steer you to unmissable places to stay in Brittany.
- When to Visit Brittany: May – September (October)
- Brittany Airports: Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE), Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), Rennes Bretagne Airport (RNS)
- Brittany Ferry Ports: Roscoff and St. Malo
- Recommended Itinerary: We recommend following our 10-Day Brittany Road Trip Itinerary for a fantastic introduction to France’s most mysterious region.
- Get the Guidebook: DK Eyewitness Brittany
Where to Stay in Brittany Map
DESTINATIONS
Sables d’Or Les Pins
Vannes
More Accommodations
1. Belle-Île-en-Mer
Belle-Île-en-Mer, or simply Belle-Île, is the largest island in Brittany.
This enchanting isle, aptly named “beautiful island,” lies 14 kilometers south of Point de Quiberon in the Morbihan department.
The coast of Belle-Île remains pristine, characterized by untouched rugged cliffs and sandy coves. With 58 beaches scattered around the island, its shoreline is a haven for swimmers as well as walkers.
Offshore, sculptural islets enhance the dramatic seascapes, while the island’s interior is defined by farmland and hamlets.
The GR 340 Tour de Belle-Île encircles the entire island. Whether you traverse a section or undertake the full five-day circuit, the coastal trail’s raw beauty and tranquility are sure to captivate.
Belle-Île spans 17 kilometers by 9 kilometers and is home to 5,611 permanent residents. The island’s main towns are Le Palais, connected to Quiberon by ferry, and the picturesque Sauzon.
The most vibrant place to stay on the island is Le Palais. Belle-Ile’s main port town is a happy cluster of colorful houses, bakeries, restaurants, and hotels. Eat ice cream at Audrey ECHARD Artisane Glacière and drink artisan beer and cider at Chez Lucienne.
A quieter alternative is Sauzon, located 6 km northwest of Le Palais. Luxury travelers should take a close look at Hôtel Le Grand Large Belle-île-en-mer along Côte Sauvage, the wild coast.
Read our travel guide to Belle Ile to find out how to get to the island and what to see and do.
Le Palais Hotels and Accommodations
Budget-Midrange | The portside Hôtel Atlantique, housed in a renovated 18th-century building, stands prominently on Quai de l’Acadie. As one of the first buildings to greet you upon disembarking the ferry, this quaint hotel and restaurant offers pristine rooms and convenient luggage storage, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay.
Budget-Midrange | Hôtel Restaurant Corto Maltese is situated across from the église Saint-Gérand du Palais church, just a short walk away from the harbor. This charming butter-yellow hotel offers 11 renovated double and family rooms, along with a delightful on-site restaurant.
Midrange | Brittany Grand Hotel, centrally located at Port de le Palais directly opposite the ferry docks, offers a convenient and welcoming stay. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar with picturesque harbor views. Guests consistently praise the hearty breakfast, the amiable staff, and the immaculate, soundproofed rooms.
Look for accommodation in Le Palais.
Sauzon Hotels and Accommodations
Midrange | The harbor-side Bed & Breakfast “Villa Pen Prad” is a cozy B&B in Sauzon with a panoramic garden terrace.
Midrange-Luxury | Hôtel Le Cardinal Belle-Île enjoys an enviable hilltop perch with sweeping views of Sauzon Bay. This idyllic retreat offers a captivating setting, an on-site restaurant, a panoramic outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and a sumptuous breakfast.
Look for accommodation in Sauzon.
Les Poulains Hotels and Accommodations
Midrange | Chambres d’hôtes “La maison des Poulains” Chambres d’hôtes “La maison des Poulains” is a distinguished B&B ideally positioned near the GR 340 and the iconic lighthouse at Pointe des Poulains. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast. A locally-sourced and freshly prepared 4-course dinner is available on-site, but must be reserved in advance due to limited seating.
Côte Sauvage Hotels and Accommodations
Luxury | Hôtel Le Grand Large Belle-île-en-mer is a seafront hotel with an on-site restaurant and outdoor pool, set along the wild coast of Belle-Ile, a short walk away from the Les Aiguilles de Port Coton. Stay here for the truly unbeatable location.
2. Morgat, Crozon Peninsula
The Crozon Peninsula is situated in the Finistère department of Brittany between Brest and Quimper.
Crozon Peninsula’s allure lies in its untamed and pristine coastal landscapes, which are protected as part of the Armorique Regional Nature Park. The coast unfolds in a dramatic sequence of cliffs, rugged headlands, offshore rock stacks, hidden bays, and crescent sandy beaches.
Walking along the clifftop Sentier Côtier will likely be the highlight of your visit, along with exploring the peninsula’s numerous beaches.
Our favorite experience was hiking the coastal trail from Camaret-sur-Mer to Pointe de Pen Hir, a dramatic headland with striking rock formations and a string of offshore islets. This circular route leads to Chez Germaine, an excellent beachside creperie, perfectly positioned for a mid-hike lunch. The path loops back to Camaret via the Lagatjar alignments (standing stones).
The most popular places to stay in the Crozon Peninsula are Morgat, Camaret-sur-Mer, and Crozon.
We recommend staying in Morgat, because of its favorable scenic location at Plage de Morgat. It also boasts a lovely mix of shops, creperies, bars, and restaurants.
Read our complete guide to Crozon Peninsula.
Morgat Hotels and Accommodations
Top Choice – Midrange | L’Escale Marine, The Originals Relais is a 3-star hotel offering private parking, an exceptional dining experience at Bistrot le 34, a cozy bar, and rooms equipped with air-conditioning and soundproofing. Guests can anticipate a gracious reception and a delectable breakfast during their stay.
Adults-Only Apartments | Top-rated Appartements Fontaine – A Vous Morgat offers spotless modern apartments with free parking just steps away from the Morgat beach.
Beachfront Apartment | L améthystes is a sea-view apartment with a double bed and 1 sofa bed in Morgat with a fully-equipped kitchen, free parking, and a washing machine.
Apartment | TY SEA is a budget-friendly, one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Morgat with parking.
Vacation Home | The 3-bedroom Maison à l’orée du bois du Kador, situated 1-km away from Plage de Morgat, is a great option for families. The rental home features minimalist nordic furnishings, a well-kept garden and terrace, and BBQ facilities.
Look for accommodation in Morgat.
3. Perros-Guirec, Pink Granite Coast
Like many travelers, our trip to Brittany was greatly fueled by captivating images of the Pink Granite Coast and the famous Ploumanac’h Lighthouse.
Located in the Côtes d’Armor department in Northern Brittany, the Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granite Rose) is a mesmerizing stretch of coastline strewn with copper-pink granite formations.
These blush-colored rocks are a testament to nature’s raw power and the passage of time.
The borders of the Pink Granite Coast are not definitively defined, but all can agree that the most spectacular section lies between Trégastel and Ploumanac’h.
Base yourself in Perros-Guirec for exploring the Pink Granite Coast and visiting the nearby Sept-Îles archipelago, a nature reserve with 20,000 pairs of seabirds and 27 nesting species.
The seaside resort of Perros-Guirec boasts an enticing collection of seaview and seafront hotels and fine sandy beaches like Trestraou beach, Trestrignel beach, and Saint-Guirec beach.
Hosting holidaymakers since the 19th century, Perros-Guirec is effortlessly noble and self-assured.
We recommend following the GR 34 from Plage du Coz-Pors in Trégastel to Perros-Guirec, which we explained in detail in our Pink Granite Coast hiking guide. For shorter walks, hike around Île Renote Peninsula and along the Sentier des Douaniers of Ploumanac’h.
Perros-Guirec Hotels and Accommodations
Budget | Kanoperoz-Plage de Trestraou is a one-bedroom apartment with a washing machine and free on-site parking, just steps away from Trestraou beach.
Midrange | Villa les Hydrangeas – Hôtel restaurant vue mer is a quiet 3-star hotel and restaurant with sea view rooms in Perros-Guirec, near Trestrignel beach.
Where We Stayed – Midrange | Hôtel Les Costans occupies a quiet perch overlooking the sea, between the Trestraou and Trestrignel beaches in Perros-Guirec. This 3-star hotel is a perfect base for those that appreciate serenity, quality breakfasts, and sea views. Guests can savor the shimmering waters of the English Channel from the garden or the chic breakfast room, which transforms into a cozy tapas lounge-bar come evening.
5-star Luxury | Spa L’Agapa by CODAGE sets the bar high with its elegant black-and-white rooms, enticing spa facilities, and gourmet restaurant. Its hilltop perch affords sweeping views of Trestraou Beach and the nearby Sept-Iles archipelago.
4-star Luxury | The beachfront Grand Hôtel Perros-Guirec at Plage de Trestraou exudes a nostalgic charm with its casino, cocktail bar, and turn-of-the-century lobby aglow with chandeliers. The most appealing facilities of the hotel are new, including the rooftop panoramic terrace (where breakfast is served), the elegant sea-view rooms, the spa, and the gourmet Le Jo’Ker restaurant.
More Perros-Guirec Accommodations | Chez Malo (budget-friendly apartment), Ma Ripoz B&B (B&B), and Roz Marine Thalasso (4-star luxury).
Ploumanac’h Accommodations | Hôtel des Rochers (3-star seafront hotel at Port de Ploumanac’h) and Castel Beau Site (4-star seafront hotel at Saint Guirec Beach)
Families love staying in these nearby vacation homes: Les tuiles rouges, Domaine du Mimosa, and Manoir des petites Bretonnes (7-day minimum stay).
Look for accommodation in Perros-Guirec.
4. Roscoff, Bay of Morlaix
With ferry services to Plymouth and Cork, the port town of Roscoff in Finistère serves as a major gateway to Brittany and France for British and Irish travelers.
It would be a mistake to overlook Roscoff as a mere transit stop.
This attractive seaside town of stately granite houses and smuggler’s beaches is located along Morlaix Bay and is thus a great base for visiting Île de Batz, the city of Morlaix, the Château du Taureau, the Carantec coast (Pointe de Penn al Lann and Tahiti Beach), and Cairn of Barnenez.
One of the highlights of our trip was hiking the coastal trail along Morlaix Bay from Port de Térénez to Saint-Samson in Plougasnou. This scenic path meanders past dramatic rock formations and wild, rugged beaches. At Plage de Guerzit, the trail veers inland and leads to Restaurant La Maison de Kerdiès, an ideal spot for a gourmet lunch (reservations recommended).
Read our Roscoff travel guide for tips on what to see and do in the area.
Roscoff Hotels and Accommodations
Where we stayed – La Brise Roscoff | La Brise is an exquisite bed and breakfast nestled in a quiet area of Roscoff, just a leisurely stroll from the historic port. This bed and breakfast offers four thoughtfully-appointed guest rooms, each equipped with a coffee maker and tea kettle with a selection of loose leaf teas. La Brise emanates a blend of elegance and tranquility, embracing a tastefully minimalist design aesthetic and a soothing color palette of cream, white, and beige. On-site parking is available with reservation.
Budget | Hotel du Centre – Chez Janie is located along the old fishing port in the historic center of Roscoff. Stay here for the central location, excellent on-site seafood restaurant, and friendly staff. No elevator.
Budget-Midrange | Hôtel La Résidence des Artistes offers clean and comfortable rooms in Roscoff.
Luxury | The seafront Hôtel Mercure Roscoff Bord de Mer is situated behind the Notre-Dame de Croas-Batz Church. Book a seaview room, or enjoy the panoramic sea views from the hotel’s lounge.
Luxury | Housed in an elegant, historic building, the seafront Hôtel Le Temps de Vivre Roscoff offers spacious contemporary rooms and an excellent breakfast. Limited private parking available with reservation (18.50 EUR/day).
Look for accommodation in Roscoff.
5. Sables-d’Or-les-Pins, Côte de Penthièvre
Sables-d’Or-les-Pins is a low-key seaside village between Cap Frehel and Cap d’Erquy along Côte de Penthièvre, just west of the Emerald Coast in Côtes d’Armor.
If you’re traveling between Saint-Malo and Paimpol, it’s worth detouring here to visit Cap Frehel and Fort la Latte (Château de La Roche Goyon), the 14th century seaside castle which stands on a wave-battered headland. Read our Cap Frehel – Fort la Latte hiking guide for essential info.
We loved the peace and quiet that Sables-d’Or-les-Pins offers and didn’t want to leave.
Our experience was especially enjoyable, because we stayed and dined in Hôtel de Diane, a historic, half-timbered hotel that was built in the 1920s in the “Anglo-Breton” architectural style.
Hôtel de Diane captivates with its impeccable service, stylish and cozy lounges, gourmet dining, exceptional breakfast buffet, and modern rooms.
The hotel’s restaurant, Le 1925 (open Tuesday – Saturday), is set in a luminous dining hall featuring high ceilings, potted plants, and a chic array of pendant lights. Diners can savor the Chef’s menu in three acts or the seasonal menu, which evolves every two months. The cuisine is exquisite, and the dining experience is elegantly paced.
Look for accommodation in Erquy.
6. Paimpol, Goëlo Coast
Paimpol is a port town along the Goëlo coast in the Côtes-d’Armor department of Brittany.
Paimpol’s town center is a labyrinth of cobbled streets adjacent to the boat-filled harbor. The atmosphere is lively, with locals and tourists alike darting between specialty shops, boulangeries, and creperies.
Every Tuesday morning, a vibrant market showcases an enticing array of local products.
During your stay in Paimpol, wander around the 13th century gothic Beauport Abbey, visit the riverside village of Pontrieux (famous for its 50 washhouses), hike La Route des Falaises, visit Loguivy de la Mer, and the amble across the gardens of Château de la Roche Jagu. And of course, visit the car-free island of Bréhat (outside of high season).
Paimpol Hotels and Accommodations
Where we stayed – Midrange | Les Hauts de Kerano is an impeccably-run 3-star hotel just 1 km from Paimpol’s town center. The hotel’s restaurant, Ostium, is a local gourmet hotspot serving a fusion of Breton, Périgord, and Japanese-inspired shared plates. The cuisine and service are exceptional. Breakfast is a highlight, featuring homemade products, fresh breads and cakes, and high-quality regional cheeses and yogurts.
Budget-Midrange | Described by most guests as “perfect in every way,” Maison d’hôtes de Kergiquel is an outstanding bed and breakfast with 4 tastefully-decorated rooms just outside the town center of Paimpol. Guests can enjoy a locally sourced, home-cooked dinner on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with advance reservation.
Budget-Midrange | Chambres et tables d’hôtes Cornec is a charming B&B, expertly managed by welcoming hosts who provide personalized recommendations on the finest local restaurants, scenic walks, and panoramic viewpoints. Situated in the serene locale of Ploubazlanec, between Loguivy de la Mer and Paimpol, this 18th-century farmhouse offers a tranquil retreat near the departure point for Bréhat Island. Guests can also enjoy an exquisite in-house dining experience featuring home-cooked, organic, vegetarian meals (with advanced notice).
Budget | Le Bercail is a comfortable and welcoming B&B in Plouézec.
Look for accommodation in Paimpol
7. Vannes
Vannes is a walled city, located at the mouth of the Marle River, which drains into the Gulf of Morbihan.
The capital of Morbihan département delights with its medieval center that unfolds like a fairy tale. Upon entering the center by way of a medieval gate, you’ll follow cobbled lanes to interconnected squares, crammed with the most picture-perfect half-timbered buildings.
Vannes is a visual wonderland with a vibrant dining and shopping scene as well as a marina.
We recommend staying in Vannes, or nearby, to fully absorb the city’s unique atmosphere and explore the Gulf of Morbihan.
Tip | Eat the Kouign-Amann pastries at La Huche à Pain.
Vannes Hotels and Accommodations
Midrange | The newly renovated Hôtel & Spa Le Maury offers 41 modern rooms in a central location, just outside the walled city. Private parking and breakfast are available. Guests can take advantage of the gym facilities (free), wellness area (extra charge), and Private Balneotherapy Area (extra charge).
Midrange | Appart hôtel & Spa La Villa du Port offers beautifully decorated, clean apartments with private parking near the Vannes Marina. It’s a 10-minute walk to Porte Saint Vincent, the southern entrance to the walled city.
Look for accommodation in Vannes.
Gulf of Morbihan Hotels
Luxury | La Bellevue Bistrot et Chambres d’Hotes is a top-rated hotel and restaurant (open Thursday – Sunday) with air-conditioned rooms in the Sené Peninsula, near Vannes (17-minute drive). Breakfast is included. There is no on-site parking. Guests must park at nearby car parks.
France Travel Guides
Brittany:
- Brittany Road Trip Itinerary
- Hiking in Brittany
- Pink Granite Coast Hike
- Crozon Peninsula Travel Guide
- Belle-Ile Island Travel Guide
- Cap Frehel and Fort la Latte Hike, Emerald Coast
- Paimpol Travel Guide
- Roscoff Travel Guide
Marseille:
- Best Things to Do in Marseille
- Marseille Itinerary
- How to Visit Calanques National Park
- Hiking in Calanques National Park
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