Brittany (North West of France)

Regional Highlights

The beautiful medieval town of Josselin with its timber houses, pavement cafes and imposing 12th century turreted Château overlooking the River Oust
La Gacilly – a ‘ville fleurie’ and renowned for its botanical gardens and Yves Rocher perfume factory
Redon – the little Venice of Brittany
12th century Château Blain on the pretty Nantes-Brest Canal and its superb forest
Magnificent 18-19th century castles on the River Erdre towards Nantes
The beautiful St-Pierre-St-Paul Cathedral and Château at Nantes
Rennes – capital of Brittany and home to the magnificent landscaped Thabor gardens and imposing 18th century manor houses and parliament buildings
Wander the medieval streets of fortified Dinan, set high in the cliffs overlooking the port
Sweet crêpes, savoury buckwheat galettes, oysters and seafood platters – typical delicious Breton cuisine

Brittany’s network of flower-adorned Napoleonic canals and locks meander through a peaceful landscape of woodland and pastures dotted with medieval towns and fairytale castles.

Suggested Cruises in Brittany

Short Breaks

The Napoleon Cruise

Messac - La Roche Bernard - Messac

Pass under the iron bridge of Port de Roche, decorated with the seals of Napoleon and Eugenie and built for the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1900. Visit Redon’s shops and markets before arriving in the port of La Roche Bernard where you could try Breton Oysters at a quayside restaurant.

Duration:: 4 Nights
Cruise Type:: Return Trip
Distance:: 152 km
Locks:: 4
Cruise Time:: 20 hrs

Week Breaks

The Artisan Cruise

Nort-sur-Edre - La Gacilly - Nort-sur-Edre

La Gacilly is a pretty flower-adorned town, home to artists and artisans and a delight to explore. Visit Redon - the Little Venice of Brittany - en route. The River Erdre makes for easy cruising and is perfect for beginners.

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: Return Trip
Distance:: 200 km
Locks:: 34
Cruise Time:: 38 hrs

The Maritime Cruise

Nort-sur-Edre - La Roche Bernard - Nort-sur-Edre

Cruise to La Roche Bernard on the coast and wander the streets of this charming old town. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the River Vilaine.

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: Return Trip
Distance:: 240 km
Locks:: 32
Cruise Time:: 44 hrs

The Gardens & Castles Cruise

Messac - Josselin - Messac

Take a walk around the stunning Yves Rocher botanical gardens and visit the famous beauty centre at La Gacilly. Enjoy a tour of Malestroit and discover the town’s luxurious houses. Explore the grand Château at Josselin, considered the most beautiful in the region, and admire the houses clustered around the main square.

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: Return Trip
Distance:: 208 km
Locks:: 36
Cruise Time:: 36 hrs

The Corsaires Cruise

Messac - Dinan (or vice versa)

Follow the peaceful River Vilaine, stopping en route to visit the pretty town of Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Dinan is a perfect example of a medieval town on the banks of the River Rance. Its castle and 13th century ramparts are best viewed from the water. Plenty of opportunities exist along your ...

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: One Way
Distance:: 127 km
Locks:: 57
Cruise Time:: 30 hrs

The Dukes of Brittany Cruise

Nort-sur-Edre - Messac (or vice versa)

Enjoy a week cruising on the River Erdre, one of the most beautiful rivers in France, the peaceful River Vilaine and the Canal de Nantes à Brest. Visit the château at Blain and sample some crisp cider in the cider factory at Guenroüet, where you can also play mini golf or tennis. Visit ...

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: One Way
Distance:: 260 km
Locks:: 18
Cruise Time:: 35 hrs

The Capital Cruise

Messac – Nantes – Messac

Follow the gentle River Vilaine from Messac to Redon, stopping to visit the lovely St Saveur Abbey and its lively Monday market, before crossing the viaduct at Corbinières. Enjoy the greenery of the forest of Gâvre between Guenrouët and Blain, home to the famous Château. Pass through the Quiheix locks to access the ...

Duration:: One Week
Cruise Type:: Return Trip
Distance:: 280 km
Locks:: 36
Cruise Time:: 42 hrs

Longer Breaks

The Best of Brittany Cruise

Messac – Redon – Josselin – Nantes – Messac

Cruise the rivers and canals of Brittany on a wonderful 2 week journey, taking in all the historical and scenic delights of this beautiful region. From awe-inspiring châteaux and cathedral cities to pretty medieval towns, ancient churches and timbered houses, you’ll discover Brittany’s unique culture, history and heritage at ...