Breathtaking 4-Day Brittany Road Trip, France

Join us on this Brittany road trip, where rugged coastal vistas, medieval towns, and rustic charm await.

With its extensive coastline stretching 2800 km along the northwest of France, Brittany promises spectacular panoramas at every turn. We took the roads less travelled and enjoyed every moment.

Our four-day road trip begins in the south, just a four-hour drive from the chic streets of Paris, offering an ideal weekend escape to uncover the region’s best attractions.

Having lived in France for a year, we have been fortunate to visit many of France’s beautiful regions. Our France chapter was just a part of our much larger European motorhome adventure.

Whether road-tripping by car or motorhoming through France, this Brittany road trip offers a little bit of everything. From Brittany, a rewarding onward journey would be the drive into Normandy and a visit to the famous Mont-Saint-Michel.

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Brittany Road Trip: Quick Overview

Day 1: Kerhinet & Mesquer

Wander the cute historical village of Kerhinet then drive to Pointe de Merquel and Mesquer to catch the salt marshes and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Day 2: Sarzeau & Quiberon

🗺️ Driving distance from Kerhinet to Sarzeau: 125 km

Walk the ruins of Chateau de Suscinio. Explore the cove at Plage Suscinio. Drive to Quiberon and walk its long coastline trail, arriving at White Point Arch.

Quiberon Sail: 2-hour Sailing trip in Quiberon Bay | ⭐️ 5/5 star reviews | book here

Day 3: Perros-Guirec & Plougrescant

🗺️ Driving distance from Sarzeau to Perros-Guirec: 211 km

Watch the waves roll onto the shores of Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast), amassed with pink-hued granite rocks. Admire Plougrescant’s house built between two rocks amid a moon-like landscape.

Day 4: Dinan & Lehon

🗺️ Driving distance Perros-Guirec to Dinan: 145 km

Experience medieval life in the old towns of Dinan and Léhon.

🚶🏻‍♀️‍➡️Consider a guided walking tour | Check availability here

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Map: Brittany Road Trip

How to Use This Road Trip Map

1. To use this interactive map effectively, click the square icon in the upper right corner to expand.
2. A key will appear on the left, guiding you through various locations.
3. Clicking on any site reveals detailed information about that spot.
4. Blue marks represent visited attractions (🔵); Yellow represents suggested attractions (🟡)
5. Look for motorhome overnight stops marked by a purple circle ( 🟣) with a motorhome icon.
6. The places we’ve personally visited are also highlighted with distinct location icons.

Day 1: Brittany Road Trip

Begin your Brittany adventure in the historic village of Kerhinet, where charming thatched cottages and pedestrian-only streets transport you back in time.

Continue to Mesquer, a coastal retreat celebrated for its salt marshes atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views.

Kerhinet

Begin your Brittany adventure by immersing yourself in the picturesque historic village of Kerhinet dedicated to the local architecture, located just outside the border of Brittany. It is free to enter and open all year round.

We were able to park close to Kerhinet, also free.

The restored hamlet features eighteen charming thatched cottages that transport you to bygone times. Information boards line the two educational routes through Kerhinet.

Meander through pedestrian-only streets adorned with vibrant flowers, evoking the quaint charm of an English Cotswolds village.

You’ll also find a tourist information centre with interactive displays offering insights into the area’s rich history and culture.

Walking through these beautiful, flower-adorned cottages makes you think that a character from a Jane Austen novel might step out at any moment. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.

Discover more in and near Kerhinet:

• Kerhinet Farmer’s Markets: Held each Thursday between the months of July to September.
• Brière Regional Nature Park: This 40,000-hectare peat bog, with its seven islands, is one of the largest in France. Join a boat tour and ply the waterways to see wildlife in this natural habitat and maybe even glimpse the smoke-like whispers of escaping methane.

Mesquer

Driving a short distance brings Mesquer into view. It’s a popular coastal retreat celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and fantastic ocean views. Many of the homes remain unoccupied over the colder months.

We visited in early spring and found things to be pretty quiet; however, a local, Nils Dessale, told us that this is definitely not the case come summer. Then, the place is packed with holiday-goers.

Embrace the laid-back atmosphere of the town, savouring its unique blend of coastal charm and natural beauty.

Discover more in and near Mesquer:

• Salt Marshes of Le Mès: These extensive salt marshes cover a large area around Mesquer. During the height of salt production in the 19th century, ships docked at Kercabellec harbour and transported salt up and down the Atlantic coast. The salt was used to preserve meat and fish.
• Mesquer artisanal markets: Opens each Tuesday at Quimiac and each Sunday in Bourg from July and August (08:30 am to 12:30 pm).
• Mesquer farmers market: Opens in Kercabellec each Wednesday in the months of July and August.
• Mesquer year-round market: At Quimiac in Mesquer every Friday.

Brittany Day 1: Accommodation/ Camping

🚐 Motorhome Stop: Mesquer Aire: €6 overnight cost and 11km from Kerhinet.

🛌 Accommodation Option: Les Nymphs

Les Nymphs
⭐️ Rating: 9.5/10 | Breakfast included | 0.7km from Mesquer  
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Day 2: Brittany Road Trip

Explore Sarzeau’s beautiful coastline and Suscinio Castle before continuing to Quiberon, known for its dramatic coastline and the majestic Arche de Port Blanc.

Sarzeau

Sarzeau boasts not only beautiful contrasting views of its coastline but also a long, pristine five-kilometre-long beach. It’s easy to understand why people descend here in droves over the summer just to enjoy this little patch of paradise.

Visit the Suscinio Plage (beach) and walk around Suscinio Castle, following the moat. You can buy tickets to enter; however, we were content to enjoy the castle’s surroundings.

Suscinio Castle, built in the 13th century, was once the hunting lodge of the Dukes of Brittany. Its grounds are free to walk around, and in the summer, it is open to visitors for guided tours. Medieval reenactments are also held there.

Find more info and Suscinio Castle opening times on this website. 

Discover more in and near Sarzeau:

• Sunbathing at Plage du Roaliguen: This stretch of beach, south of Sarzeau town centre, extends for kilometres, so you’ll have plenty of space to soak in the sunshine. This activity may be best enjoyed at high tide as the low tide brings out people searching for crabs and shellfish at low tide, so your space may be compromised.
• Chateau de Kerlevenan: Just 4 km from Sarzeau, this 18th-century privately owned chateau has extensive grounds and a chapel that can be visited from July 1 to September 15, every afternoon, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., except Wednesday and from October 1 to June 30 by appointment. The entry price is €4.
• Market: held in Sarzeau every Thursday.

Quiberon

Quiberon is a dramatic stretch of coastline. The 14-kilometre-long Quiberon Peninsula juts out from the Morbihan coast in southern Brittany and is just 23m wide at its narrowest point.

Interestingly, swimming here is forbidden due to the rough seas; however, it is those very rough seas that have helped form the dramatic rock formations along the coast. 

The many coastal walkways give you unforgettable views of this wild coastline. Watching the waves crash on the rocks is mesmerising, even on calm days.

Did you know the historical GR34 (Grand Randonnée 34) coastal walk from Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire includes the trail along the Quiberon Peninsula?

This GR34 was walked by customs officials to watch for smuggling and pillaging of shipwrecks. They must have been pretty fit.

Don’t miss seeing the majestic L’Arche de Port Blanc (White Port Arch), close by the town of Saint-Pierre-Quiberon.

Accessible at low tide, it is a great attraction to photograph, especially since you can shoot it to the west.

Quiberon was our busiest overnight campervan spot on our road trip through Brittany. However, the cliff walks weren’t busy, and it in no way felt crowded, which made the wild Quiberon coast just that much more special.

Discover more in and near Quiberon:

• Quiberon Sail: 2-hour Sailing trip in Quiberon Bay | ⭐️ 5/5 star reviews | book here
• Wild Dunes of Gâvres: These dunes extend from Quiberon to Gâvres, a distance of 25km and consist of the largest collection of sand dunes in Brittany without urbanisation. They have been awarded the French national label, Grand Site de France.
• Quiberon markets: Held at Place du Marché Thursday 08:00am to 1:00pm and Place du Varquez Saturday 08:00am to 1:00pm.
• Building ruins near the beach.

Brittany Day 2: Accommodation/ Camping

🚐 Motorhome Stop: Quiberon Aire: €14 Euro/ 100 places/hardstanding by the coast

🛌 Accommodation Option: Best Western Hotel Le Bellevue

Best Western Hotel Le Bellevue
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 | Excellent location | Breakfast available  
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Day 3: Brittany Road Trip

Explore the pink granite rocks of Perros-Guirec, then journey to Plougrescant, where the iconic Castel Meur, nestled between towering boulders, offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.

Perros-Guirec

Perros-Guirec is famous for its pink granite rocks carved out by the sea. The coastal town of Perros-Guirec lies on the Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast).

The day we were there, fog rolled in from the sea, enveloped the hill, and crept down the beach—it created a mesmerising scene. The tide was out during the morning of our visit, allowing us to walk the beach and its rocks.

To be honest, we were expecting the rocks to have more ‘pink’ hues, however it is said that the sunlight needs to be at your back to bring out the best of the colours.

For the best views of these granite rocks, consider walking the 5km trail between Phare de Men Ruz and Perros-Guirec, which hugs the coastline.

The Plage de Trestraou (Trestraou beach) at Perros-Guirec is renowned for its fine sand and is a mecca for those who enjoy water sports.

Looking for a more sheltered swimming beach? La Plage Saint Guirec’s protected waters and secluded 150m stretch of sand are perfect.

Discover more in and near Perros-Guirec:

• La Plage Saint Guirec and the rock with the hole: At the beach, look for the long nosed-shaped with a hole through it. Legend has it that a young, single woman must stick a needle in the ‘nose’; if it doesn’t fall out, then she will be married within the year.
• Perros-Guirec: Visit the pink granite church of Saint-Jacques in the town centre to see its wonderful Romanesque architecture.
• Are you a wildlife lover? The Sept-Iles archipelago, a nature reserve 6km off the coast of Ploumanac’h, a haven for 27 different varieties of birds, will definitely tick that box. The birds that come here to roost include the beautiful Atlantic Puffin, Cormorant, Great black-backed Gull, Razorbills and Northern gannets; we’ve been lucky to see many of these birds in Scotland.
• Perros-Guirec Market: Perros-Guirec has a Sunday morning market.

Plougrescant

Plougrescant was one of our favourite sights on our Brittany road trip. Standing at the most northerly point in Brittany is a very memorable sight.

Nestled between two towering boulders sits Castel Meur or La Maison des Gouffre (‘House between the Rocks’). The house and immediate grounds are privately owned, so they cannot be visited; however, the house faces south, making for clear views to grab a photo.

We walked around Castel Meur’s perimeter and admired the spectacular rock formations forming the nearby landscape. It’s quite moon-like.

Plougrescant is a perfect getaway location for those seeking solace.

Discover more in and near Plougrescant

• Beg ar Vilin: The beach here is home to a boat cemetery, where many wooden boats call this their last resting place. It is free to wander these exhibits.
• Plougrescant: Don’t miss the 11th-century Saint-Généry Chapel with its leaning spire. The church is open for a free tour.
• Plougrescant Market: Each Sunday from mid-June to mid-September at the Place de la Mairie, 08:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Brittany Day 3: Accommodation/ Camping

🚐 Motorhome Stop: Trevou-Treguignec: €14 euro inc Electricity/near to the beach

🛌 Accommodation Option: Manoir de Kergrec’h

Manoir de Kergrec’h
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 | Excellent location | Breakfast available  
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Day 4: Brittany Road Trip

Step back in time to medieval Dinan, adorned with cobbled stone paths, timbered houses, and ancient ramparts—actually the oldest in Brittany.

Close by, the small village of Lehon showcases the Romanesque and Gothic architecture of Abbey Saint Magloire de Lehon.

Dinan

Dinan is a well-preserved medieval town with cobbled stone streets and half-timbered houses that closely resemble those of Alsace.

Strolling the streets and enjoying the 14th-century medieval charm really made this a memorable stop.

Did you know that Dinan has the oldest ramparts (earth embankments used for fortification) in Brittany? Yes, all three kilometres of them!

Discover more in and near Dinan:

• Medieval Celebration: Every two years, the town teleports back to the 14th century with tournaments and entertainment. If you arrive in costume, then it’s free to enter. The next festival is scheduled for July 2025.
• Guided Walk: 🚶🏻‍♀️‍➡️ Book a guided walk with a local 👉 Check availability here
• River Walk: To admire some of the older buildings in Dinan, walk the banks of the town’s Rance River towards Taden.
• Villes et Villages Fleur award: Dinan has been awarded 3-fleurs for landscape, heritage and environmental respect.
• Dinan Markets: Each Thursday from 08:00 am to 1:00 pm at Place Duguesclin.

Lehon

One of the most interesting attractions in Léhon is the quaint Abbey Saint Magloire de Lehon. Its distinctive character is due to its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, which dates back to the 9th century.

We found the pretty gardens of the Abbey open and wandered around, admiring the huge stone arches that framed them. Entry is free at particular Abbey times, and paid guided tours are available.

Discover more in and near Lehon:

• Castle of Lehon: The castle of Lehon is close to the Abbey and has a commanding view. Walking around it is interesting, adding another interesting aspect to Lehon’s medieval past.
• Saint-Malo: Only 30km from Dinan, Saint-Malo is a town with huge ramparts and fortifications. Its wide sandy beach is definitely worth a stroll.
• Léhon Markets: Each Saturday from 9:00 to 12:00 am at the Rue du Bas Bourgneuf.

Brittany Day 4: Accommodation/ Camping

🚐 Motorhome Stop: Lehon/ Dinan: Free camper stop/ 20 min walk to Dinan

🛌 Accommodation Option: La Maison Pavie

La Maison Pavie
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 | Excellent location | Breakfast available  
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Getting Around: Motorhome / Campervan Rental

We hired a campervan through ‘Motorhome Republic’ for our driving tour of Brittany. They find the best deal for you in whatever region you need to hire a van.

For more information on motorhome tips for driving in Europe, you may be interested in reading our Best Motorhome Tips for Beginners article.

Getting Around: Car Rental

If you are planning on renting a car for your Brittany itinerary, then check out Discover Cars to find the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it easy to drive in Brittany?

Yes, it’s easy to drive in Brittany, the roads are in good condition and have helpful road signs. Some of the minor roads are single-lane only for two-way traffic, so giving way will be necessary.

2. What is the difference between Brittany and Normandy?

Geography and Landscape:

• Brittany: Surrounded on three sides by the sea, Brittany boasts a rugged coastline, with dramatic cliffs and wide sandy beaches. Its interior is rural, characterized by ancient forests and agricultural land.
• Normandy: Known for its lush, green landscapes featuring meadows and apple orchards, Normandy also offers a mix of long sandy beaches and white cliffs. The region includes the famous Mont-Saint-Michel, an island commune.

History and Culture:

• Brittany: Brittany has a strong Celtic influence, reflected in its language (Breton), music, and festivals. It was once a separate kingdom and duchy, and its Celtic heritage makes it culturally distinct from much of France.
• Normandy: Normandy is noted for its rich history from the Viking invasions to the pivotal D-Day landings of WWII. It has a mix of Norse and French cultural influences and is renowned for historical landmarks related to these periods.

Cuisine:

• Brittany: Famous for its seafood, especially oysters and mussels, and cider is the traditional drink.
  • Galettes: A type of pancake that can be filled with cheese, onion and ham with an egg and sour cream on top.
  • Crépes: Typical Breton Food
  • Breton Cake: This is lush and is a cross between cake and shortbread -it has plenty of butter and loads of egg yolks – all healthy ingredients 😉

• Normandy: Known for its dairy products, especially Camembert, Brie, and Neufchâtel cheeses. The region is also famous for its apple-based products like Calvados (apple brandy) and cider.

Economic Activities:

• Brittany: The region’s economy is heavily influenced by its maritime position, with activities centred around fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism.
• Normandy: In addition to tourism, Normandy has a strong agricultural presence, particularly in dairy farming and apple orchards, alongside a historical association with textile manufacturing.

3. Do you need a car in Brittany?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have a car in Brittany. A car provides flexibility and ease of navigation through Brittany, enabling you to travel to the off-the-beaten-path locations where the magic happens.

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Brittany Road Trip … That’s a Wrap

As our four-day journey through Brittany draws to a close, we leave with some wonderful memories, having enjoyed these scenic drives in Brittany.

From the rustic charm of Kerhinet to the breathtaking vistas of Quiberon, tracing the footsteps of history in Dinan and nature’s artistry in Perros-Guirec, each destination has its own story to tell, woven into the fabric of this enchanting region.

Its rugged shores and picturesque landscapes have provided a real appreciation for the beauty and diversity of this corner of France.

Until we meet again, Brittany, à bientôt!

What’s your favourite place in Brittany? We always like to hear recommendations – drop us a comment below.

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