Brittany

Brittany (Bretagne) juts into the Atlantic Ocean, a peninsula defined by its rugged coastline, distinct Celtic heritage, and maritime soul. Unlike the sweltering south, Brittany enjoys a maritime climate with mild temperatures, making it an excellent choice for families who prefer to avoid extreme heat. The weather can be changeable—a local saying goes that the sun shines several times a day—so packing layers and rain jackets is essential.

The coastline is the main attraction, offering much more than just sunbathing. The Pink Granite Coast features massive, rounded boulders in strange shapes that spark children's imaginations. In the north, the walled port city of Saint-Malo allows families to walk along high granite ramparts, imagining the corsairs (privateers) who once sailed from the harbour. At low tide, you can walk out to tidal islands like Grand Bé, but be careful of the rapidly returning water. For a magical inland excursion, the Forest of Brocéliande is steeped in Arthurian legend, with trails leading to sites associated with Merlin the Wizard and the Lady of the Lake.

Culturally, Brittany feels distinct from the rest of France. You might hear Breton bagpipes (biniou) at local festivals called Fest-Noz. Food is a major plus for fussy eaters: crêpes (sweet pancakes) and galettes (savoury buckwheat pancakes) are ubiquitous, cheap, and kid-friendly. The seaside resorts, such as Dinard or Carnac—famous for its thousands of ancient standing stones (menhirs)—are well-equipped for families.

Travel tips: Driving is the best way to access the hidden coves and smaller villages. The roads in Brittany are generally toll-free, which is a budget bonus. If you visit the western tip at Pointe du Raz, hold hands tightly; the cliffs are dramatic and windy. Boat trips to islands like Bréhat or Belle-Île offer calm adventures, often with chances to spot seals or dolphins.