Brittany
The historical province of Brittany was split between two modern-day régions of France. 80% of Brittany has become the région of Bretagne, while the remaining 20% of Brittany (Loire-Atlantique département with its préfecture Nantes, one of the former capitals of the duchy of Brittany) has been grouped with other historical provinces (Anjou, Maine, and so on) to create the région of Pays-de-la-Loire (that is "lands of the Loire"). For the reasons behind the splitting-up of Brittany, and the current debate around a reunification, see the Bretagne article.
Brittany occupies a large peninsula in the northwest of France, lying between the English Channel to the north and the Bay of Biscay to the south. Its land area is 34,034 km² (13,137 sq. mi). The region is divided into five departments: to the west is Finistere, Côtes-d´Armor lies to the North, Ille-et-Vilaine is in the north-east, Loire-Atlantique is to the south-east and Morbihan lies in the middle.
In 2004 the population of Brittany is estimated at 4,198,500 inhabitants. 72% of these live in the Bretagne région, while 28% of these live in the Pays-de-la-Loire région. At the 1999 census, the largest metropolitan areas were Nantes (711,120 inhabitants), Rennes (521,188 inhabitants), and Brest (303,484 inhabitants).
Brittany is a region located to the North-West of France. The English Channel on its Northern coast, and the Atlantic on the West and South. To the East, Brittany borders Lower Normandy and the Western Loire.
Brittany is a cacophony of diverse landscapes. Never far from the sea, walkers have an abundance of coastal paths to explore stretching north to south. Long golden sandy beaches are guarded by rugged cliffs where a myriad of wildlife play and nest including some species of rare birds. Inland pinewoods cast a glance over gently rolling green valleys whilst rivers meander through farmland untroubled by the passing of time. Unspoilt wide-open spaces together with charming villages wait to be discovered and extend a warm welcome to travellers.A primary attraction is Mont-Saint-Michel. Mont-Saint-Michel has evolved from a mere oratory in the 8th century to the breath taking magnificent monastery and national monument that towers above the sea today. Linked to the mainland by a causeway accessible only at low tide adds to its enchantment. The tides around Mont-Saint-Michel are renowned for their strength and are particularly treacherous in the spring when speeds of 18 mph have been recorded.
Saint Malo was named after a welsh monk who landed here in the 6th century. It is an important port and ferry terminal as well as an excellent tourist resort. The old walled city is particularly interesting with cobbled streets, small souvenir shops, studios of local artisans and excellent restaurants.
Children would enjoy a visit to the local aquarium where helpful staff are only too happy to explain the exhibits and encourage hands on participation. The mediaeval town of Dinan is one of the oldest in Brittany. Standing proud atop a hillside overlooking the Rance valley it has an abundance of attractions; walk along the ramparts and enjoy spectacular views, visit the museum and mediaeval church, enjoy a delicious lunch at numerous restaurants using local produce. The fish restaurants are particularly good.
Josselin sits at the edge of the Oust canal and is dominated by an impressive medieval chateau, which has been the home of the Rohan family since the 13th century. Although the interior has been renovated many of its bygone splendours remain and tours of the Chateau are well worth taking.There is a fascinating museum in the former stables housing the families collection of dolls.
Weather/Climate
The weather in Brittany does not suffer from huge variations in temperature. However, it does have a propensity to change from gentle showers of rain to bright blue skies within a few hours. On average the climate on the coast tends to be milder than inland.
