Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
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It's almost impossible to resist the appeal of Brittany's spectacular Emerald Coast, with its pink granite cliffs and turquoise seas, wonderful white beaches and deserted little coves. Writers and artists, attracted by the stunning landscapes, dramatic views and vibrant Mediterranean-style colours, have been coming here for centuries, yet the region remains largely unspoilt with much of its original charm still intact.
So you'll see locals with shrimping buckets wading the beaches and fishermen cleaning out shells by hand. Be sure to sample the region's signature dish: the seafood platter, piled high with shiny pink lobster, king prawn, silver oysters, scallops and clams, all washed down with refreshingly cold Breton cider.
This itinerary, crowned by the 'Wonder of the West', Mont-Saint-Michel, and the Cite Corsaire of Saint Malo, will lead you through the different faces of Brittany with coast, land and sea panoramic views.
The route takes you on quiet country lanes, through forest to sleepy villages. Well marked cycling paths are used throughout.
Explore this historic port town made rich by its infamous naval privateers. St Malo has always been the scene of great adventures throughout its long history and has managed to preserve its authentic atmosphere, characterised by ramparts, cobbled streets and old stone buildings.
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Built right on the promenade with direct access to the beach, this hotel has preserved all the character and comfort of a traditional seaside residence. It has an ideal location just a 1km walk from Saint-Malo’s historic walled-town, 500 metres from the thalassotherapy centre Les Thermes Marins, 800 metres from the train station and 2km from the ferry port. With direct access to the seafront,
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Follow the coastline to Pointe du Grouin for spectacular sea views. Marking the westernmost tip of the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, this brilliantly located headland not only allows you to benefit from sublime views eastwards, but also splendid ones to the west. The island just offshore is off-limits though as it's the preserve of birds.
Continue to Cancale, a quaint harbour known for its delicious oysters. Mention Cancale to a Frenchman or a foodie and the instant response will be 'oysters'; the magnificent molluscs have been cultivated in this attractive fishing village for hundreds of years.
Make your way to Vivier sur mer and enjoy coastal views.
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Hotel Beau Rivage is in Le Vivier-sur-Mer, 550 yards from the English Channel. Its terrace sits in a small garden where breakfast is served in the warmer months. Homemade traditional and local cuisine is prepared and served in the hotel’s restaurant. The bar is open for afternoon and evening drinks.
Cycle past marshlands and fishermen along the Bay which is a wonderful birding place. Also, at low tide, you can spot an amazing forest of kinds out there. It consists of many hundreds of wooden posts (known as bouchots) planted after the war to encourage the cultivation of mussels. The quality of the bay's moules de bouchots is renowned by the gourmets.
Then, a short ride will lead you to Mont St Michel. For 13 centuries, this rocky island, nestling in the heart of a huge, beautiful bay has been home to a magnificent abbey. Perched at the top of the islet, as if levitating, the building is like a mirage, always a mesmerising sight. From the top of the medieval ramparts, enjoy the wonderful view over the bay where the light reveals a different landscape every second.
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This charming hotel sits at the border of Brittany and Normandy. Set in a garden, it has an outdoor terrace and spacious rooms. Each bedroom has a contemporary design.
Follow the quiet and easy riding former railway line converted today in a green way. This cycling path is going through quaint villages along the Couesnon river. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the numerous lovely spots along your way.
Then, discover the heart of the inner land villages of Brittany. Combourg remains closely linked to Francois Rene de Chateaubriand, the most famous of all French Romantic authors, who found his inspiration here, at the end of the 18th century, in this historic, leafy green setting. Follow in the poet's footsteps, and enjoy the country atmosphere of Tranquille Lake, and the imposing castle.
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Located at the foot of the prestigious Chateaubriand residence and facing the quiet Lake, this property offers comfortable rooms opening onto the lake, the castle and the garden. The restaurant offers dishes from a tasty marriage between specialties of the sea and the soil.
Follow the peaceful cycling path at the rhythm of the Rance canal, locks and houseboat cruises, before arriving to Dinan. This beautifully preserved ancient walled town, with riverfront port and picturesque half-timbered buildings, is an absolute gem. Wander round the marvellously restored ancient squares and ramparts, visit the imposing 13th century castle (with dungeon), admire the flamboyant Gothic basilica and stroll the lovely cobbled streets packed with authentic artisan workshops.
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Arvor is situated in the heart of Dinan, opposite the town’s theatre. It is built from authentic 18th century stonework and offers elegantly decorated guest rooms. Free Wi-Fi access, a TV and a private bathroom feature in all of the rooms at Arvor. Breakfast can be enjoyed every morning in the breakfast area or in the comfort of guest rooms. The Arvor has a lounge with leather chairs and antique furnishings.
Make your way through the tranquil Rance Valley following the cycling path along the riverbank with wonderful panoramic views before arriving to St Malo.
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Built right on the promenade with direct access to the beach, this hotel has preserved all the character and comfort of a traditional seaside residence. It has an ideal location just a 1km walk from Saint-Malo’s historic walled-town, 500 metres from the thalassotherapy centre Les Thermes Marins, 800 metres from the train station and 2km from the ferry port. With direct access to the seafront,
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Kyriad, St Malo.
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Built right on the promenade with direct access to the beach, this hotel has preserved all the character and comfort of a traditional seaside residence. It has an ideal location just a 1km walk from Saint-Malo’s historic walled-town, 500 metres from the thalassotherapy centre Les Thermes Marins, 800 metres from the train station and 2km from the ferry port. With direct access to the seafront,
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from $479.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Navigation App
