Holidays in Brittany, France in self-catering holiday cottages and apartments

Self-catering accommodation - France - Brittany

The Brits have had a long standing association with Brittany; droves of holidaymakers over many years have travelled across the Channel or la Manche to discover its seaside resorts and pretty villages. And of course to enjoy French cheese and wine.

Brittany, has a long Atlantic sea coast, dotted with medieval fortifications which tell of epic historical struggles. Miles of sandy beaches are interrupted by craggy headlands, which have sheltered fishing villages for centuries against the dramatic Atlantic tides. Fishing villages such as Cancale are a great place to taste local shellfish whilst enjoying bracing sea views. Mooring for yachts is available at many marinas along the coast. Spas specialise in thalassotherapy, using sea water to enhance beauty and relaxation.

Inland, forest prevails providing a sanctuary of peace and recreation. The Villecartier Forest covers a vast area and caters for recreational activities such as horse riding, cycling, walking and angling in the lake. The land is crossed by a network of more than 600km of serene rivers and canals ideal for pleasure cruising and canoeing.

• Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in Brittany, northern France

Feel a thousand years of history in the fortified walls of Fougeres Chateau. This majestic moated castle overlooks a pretty traditional town and the rolling green hills beyond.

Another glimpse into French medieval history can be gained at the former weaving and cloth town of Vitré. The narrow, winding streets are lined with timber framed houses, built so that the upper floors overhang the doorways. The town grew rich through trade in the 15th century and is protected from above by a castle, built with strong fortified walls which have stood for centuries.

Children will love the Grand Aquarium in St Malo and Cobac Park in Lanhelin, where there are rides and a waterpark.

Mont Saint-Michel, in neighbouring Normandy, is the area's premier tourist attraction. This fortified abbey stands on a granite outcrop, surrounded by the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean, joined to the mainland by a land bridge. It has been classified as a World Heritage Site and the surrounding village is lively with cafes and gift shops. The site has been historically significant for the last 1500 years and a museum tells the story of the abbey though the ages.

• Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in Brittany, northern France