It’s no wonder that Brittany is one of the most visited regions in France; the combination of rich historical heritage and diverse natural beauty make it the ideal holiday destination. Brittany’s Celtic origins set it apart from the rest of the country, and the rugged and wild beauty of the surroundings have always attracted explorers and adventurers. There are plenty of things to do in Brittany for families everyone will enjoy. Brittany is a great place to holiday as a family; from water parks and surf spots to hiking and cycling, let your imaginations run wild and enjoy a fantastic family adventure with HolidayParkSpecials.
Hiking and Cycling in Brittany
No need for cars, trains or planes this holiday. If you’re up for a challenge this summer, why not cycle from England to France! Before you think we’re completely mad, have a look at the Cycle West project that links southwest England and northwest France. This magnificent route traverses the most stunning countryside in Devon and Brittany, usually following disused railway tracks. For those who don’t wish to cycle the whole way, there are Brittany ferries bicycle options making it easy to bring your own bicycles on holiday! Once you arrive, you’ll be completely spoilt for choice with Brittany cycling routes and options to go hiking in Brittany. Brittany is criss-crossed by eight major véloroutes and greenways, taking you through glorious, unspoilt nature and character-packed towns. For more information on where to cycle in the region, look at Freewheeling France. There are many cycle routes, coastal paths and forest trails to explore to your heart’s content and it is one of the best things to do in Brittany for families!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BG9eEc-qZVT/
Hiking on Île-Grande
Hiking in Brittany is possible for people of all hiking abilities, one of the more adventurous things to do in Brittany for families. One route that is accessible for everyone is the Brittany hill view – Brittany small harbour loop on Île-Grande, an island on the north coast of Brittany.
- Length: 4.59mi
- Start & End Point: Abri Côtier Camping Site
- Level: Easy
- Route
Hiking in Armorica Regional Natural Park
For the more experienced hikers, one route you can take is the L‘Atlantique Loop from VC27 de Saint-Hernot à Kerdreux. This intermediate hiking route is guaranteed to challenge those who walk it, but the endless beauty you encounter along the way makes it worthwhile.
- Length: 8.27mi
- Start & End Point: L’Hermine Restaurant
- Level: Intermediate
- Route
Things to do in Brittany for Families
It can be difficult keeping the youngsters entertained on a holiday, so, why not dedicate a day to the kids and do something that will entertain the whole family! There are endless things to do in Brittany for families and we have found some of the most exciting!
Water Parks in Brittany
One of the best places to visit in Brittany is Kingoland. With over forty attractions, this water park in Brittany ensures that whatever your age, you will have fun. There are rollercoasters for the thrill-seekers and merry-go-rounds and trains for the littluns!
Just over an hour away from the Crozon Peninsula you will come across Karaez Adrenaline, a water park in Brittany that will provide hours, if not days, of endless pleasure, a perfect idea for things to do with kids in Brittany.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk936O5n_G2/
Oceanopolis Aquarium
Oceanopolis Aquarium is also a great thing to do with kids in Brittany. At Oceanopolis Aquarium you can see the sea through the eyes of a scientist in three different exhibitions. Discover this unique place with huge aquariums, an aquarium tunnel and a seal clinic. Three large pavilions simulating different climate zones allow for a round-the-world trip and provide the right environment for the animals that live here. Some animals can even touch and stroke you.
Sightseeing in Brittany
There are bustling family resorts and isolated, unspoilt coves. The magical coastline is an ideal spot to explore local cuisine and culture, with cities like Saint-Malo, Quimper, Concarneau and Nantes offering medieval architecture, Celtic culture and the best oysters in France! Sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Brittany for families as it creates the perfect memories. Some of the most experiential things to do in Brittany for culture-, and history-lovers is to visit numerous places and monuments, such as a variety of chateaux to visit in Brittany.
Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo offers beautiful nature and unique cultural heritage and is often rated as number one of the best places to visit in Brittany. The old part of the city with its narrow streets and beautiful half-timbered houses lies behind old fortress walls, surrounded by the sea on three sides. The course of the fortress walls offers you a great view over the city. At low tide you can visit the two offshore tidal islands of Grand Bé and Petit Bé and discover the historical monuments on them.
Quimper
Generally regarded as the cultural heart of Brittany, Quimper is a picture-perfect postcard-worthy historic town. There are several museums to visit, you are sure to find one that pleases the whole family. The Gothic-style Cathedral, arguably Quimper’s most impressive building, is worth a visit. One of the attractions of visiting Quimper is the surrounding countryside of Cornouaille. This stunning, rugged landscape is characterised by its rocky peninsulas and sensational sea views making it one of the best places to visit in Brittany.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzn4Xn0IJVh/
Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast)
The Pink Granite Coast is famous for its incredible rock formations, the Rochers de Ploumanac’h. These imposing weather-beaten rock structures are found between the beaches of Trestraou and Saint-Guirec. If you have the opportunity, you should visit the Pink Granite Coast in the late afternoon as the setting sun gives the rocks a truly magical glow, making them shine from the inside out and one of the best places to visit in Brittany.
Chateaux to Visit in Brittany
Chateau de Suscinio
One of the most imposing chateaux to visit in Brittany is the ex-residence of the Duke of Brittany, Chateau de Suscinio. Located just to the south of Vannes, this chateau is extremely well preserved with stunning architecture and fourteenth century floor mosaics which are well worth seeing.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxawG8uBA5q/
La Bourbanais
Just 35 minutes from Saint Malo you will come across La Bourbanais, a chateau with beautiful gardens and a complete zoo. The chateau and gardens are classified historical monuments and it makes a great visit for both recreational and educational purposes, this also makes it one of the best things to do with kids in Brittany!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYbpVbg0GL/
Surf Spots in Brittany
The northwest of France is famous for its dramatic coastline. You never quite know what to expect, be it calm, soothing bays or steep cliff faces. There’s one thing that is guaranteed, however, and that is fantastic beaches. These beaches in Brittany aren’t only for a relaxing day of topping up your tan, many are good for surfing, one of the most exciting things to do in Brittany!
La Torche, Brittany
One of the best surf spots in Brittany is La Torche, a 25-mile-long bay has turned into a surfers’ paradise due to the magnificent ocean rollers. It is necessary to remind you to be careful, however, if you are planning to go surfing. Make sure you always check the surf forecast beforehand.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B2MtRVQo5F-/
