Rennes Cathedral, France by chelmsfordblue

Gayeulles Park is one of the largest in Brittany and a popular destination during the warmer months. It consists of three manmade lakes, pedalos, a swimming pool, an ice rink, a campsite, a miniature golf course, a farm for children and facilities for sports including tennis, squash and several other activities. With so much going on, it’s easy to spend a full day at Gayeulles Park, and it’s guaranteed to keep the whole family happy.

Rennes Cathedral

A trip to the Cathedral is an essential part of any trip to Rennes for architecture lovers. The work of architect Mathurin Crucy, 57 years of work went into its construction. Though the outer façade is quite simplistic and unassuming, the inside of the Cathedral is lavishly adorned with exquisite paintings and gold designs.

Breton Parliament

Breton Parliament represents the link between Brittany and France. The building itself is a sight to behold, made from granite and freestone with gilded characters embedded into the walls as a representation of justice. After a destructive fire in 1994, the Parliament underwent a massive restoration programme and is just as impressive today as it was in the 17th century.

Rennes houses, France by Mitch Altman

The Short Film Festival

The annual Short Film Festival is entirely dedicated to short films in the fantasy genre. It draws fanatics from all over the world to the city of Rennes. Though fantasy was previously a very specific niche, the event is attracting more and more visitors every year and the city has a unique buzz over the duration of the event. It usually runs for four days in October. As is the case for all planned functions, it’s worth booking a hotel well in advance if you plan to stay in Rennes whilst the Short Film Festival is taking place.

Rennes Eco-museum

Rennes Eco-museum, situated in the south of the city, tells the story of thirteen centuries of farming. It’s housed in a beautifully restored farm building and also serves as an observatory of ancient breeds of animals that have been preserved. The region’s history is explored through displays of costumes, tools and farming equipment, as well as reconstructed kitchens and larders. Of course, there are several other museums scattered throughout the city, but the Eco-museum is a fascinating location that provides a real insight into times gone by.

Rennes, France by Mitch Altman

Conclusion

Rennes is a city steeped in history with a diverse mix of attractions for visitors. It may not be one of France’s most obvious holiday destinations, but it can provide an interesting break for tourists.

Rennes is a great place to visit and has a number of great campsites for holiday makers. Especially noteworthy are “Camping des Gayeulles” and “Chateau des Ormes”. So take your camping equipment and pitch up your tent, if you need to buy any new camping items visit the Outdoor World Direct store which stocks all things camping.

The post A City Guide To Rennes, France appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Paul Gooch

Whether you’re a keen sailor, or a neophyte, the Tonnerres will enchant you with the extraordinary variety of vessels on show. Take the opportunity to plan a yacht rental in Brittany from July 13th to 19th as you won’t want to miss this celebration of the most beautiful ships in the world.

But hey, what exactly is a tall ship?

A tall ship is a traditionally-rigged boat, much like those you would see in Pirates of the Caribbean or Hook. They’re famously complex to construct and sail, but the experience of cutting through watery fathoms in one of these vessels is unforgettable. They require a crew of many people to manage the system of rigging, which may include gaff rigs, topmasts, topsails and square rigs.

Ok, I get it. Old looking boats that I can crew. Cool, but what’s this bonanza you were talking about earlier?

This year, four countries and their seafaring history are being showcased at the festival. Each country has a whole festival day dedicated to them, so after learning about Indonesia’s Sandeqs and their how their crews work their boats, you can watch a parade of their flotilla. If that’s not enough, check out the nautical-themed firework show after sundown. If Russia floats your boat, discover the Sedov and Kruzenstern cadets though military parades and marvel at the Kossack boats. Mexico and Norway are also featured with parades themed around the countries and their typical boats.

So why does this festival come to Brest?

Brest has a long maritime history of exchange between many countries in Europe as well as America. The Breton people are also very proud of their history and their roots, so any event where they can share their passion for la Bretagne and by extension, its maritime connections, is welcomed with open arms. Furthermore, the harbor at Brest is huge, so there’s plenty of space to accommodate the large number of festival ships and spectator boats.

Sounds good! Is there anything else to do apart from festival stuff?

Quick answer: Lots! Brest itself has some interesting activities. The Oceanopolis Aquarium hosts tanks with a variety of habitats so you can see miniature versions of the Normandy coast and a tropical mangrove. Perhaps the most enjoyable tank is the penguin tank, but that’s just a personal opinion!

Brittany has a famously beautiful coastline, so Brest would be a great starting or end point to a longer yacht trip. The Mont Saint Michel is a huge abbey carved into an island of rock just half a mile out at sea, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Brittany pancakes are a favorite among the French – in all four corners of the country you will find establishments boasting that they are authentic Crêperies Bretonnes. The real thing needs to be made with buckwheat or sarrasin (also known as blé noir) – these ancient grains give the pancakes their nutty, complex taste. For an authentic experience on home turf, don’t miss trying out a variety of sweet and savory crêpes filled with delights ranging from banana, chocolate and caramelized nuts to tuna, crème fraîche and succulent tomato.

I think I’m sold!

A trip to the Tonnerres de Brest is the perfect excuse for a European sailing holiday. Brittany will charm you with its old-world beauty and quaint streets. As for the boats, they really are the crème de la crème.

Lalage is one yacht rental away from throwing in the day job and moving to a house boat in the Caribbean!

View Go Boat Crazy in Brittany France in a larger map

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