Five of us will be arriving in Dinan on a Saturday evening in May, having spent the afternoon (I know, the worst time to visit!) at Mont St Michel. Two of us are driving to the far west coast of Brittany the next morning for a family dinner, and will meet up with the other three the next afternoon or evening, Monday, probably around Carnac. Does anyone have any suggestions for a place to stay and eat in Dinan? We will have two cars, and need to book a double room and a triple, or two doubles and a single. Parking is somewhat of a concern. The two of us leaving Dinan will take off in the a.m. on Sunday, but the other three, newbies to France, are looking for something to do that Sunday. They can move on to another place for Sunday night, but need to meet us Monday night near Carnac, for sure. Any recommendations?
Posted by
151 posts
There is quite much to see in Dinan and around for one day. You could spend at least 2 hours touring the town and up to 4 or 5, if you want to enter the castle, the clock tower or some shops and craftsmen workshop... You could also go for a hike along the canal and reach the neighbouring town Léhon.
If you feel more like driving to the seaside, you could reach towns like St Briac. There are many more interesting towns in the countryside for the 2nd day on your way to Carnac.
If you'd like another destination for the 2nd night, you could go to the pink granite coast (Trégastel for example), to Cape Fréhel, or in the inlands in a town like Josselin (looks a bit like Dinan).
About parking in Dinan, it should not be difficult on a Saturday evening, even in the historic center, within the walls. You may find some information about Dinan and towns around, ideas for what to see in Brittany (especially on the east side), on http://visite.bretagne.free.fr/index.php/en/itineraries.html
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
To do, there is a nice old center worth visiting. It has half-timbered buildings, shops, restaurants, etc. Rick Steve's book has a self-guided walk. I did a similar walk from Michelin Green Guide. Either way it will take you to the nicest buildings to see in the center.
There is also a really nice port area down the hill on the river. It's a great view from the ramparts of the old town above (probably most of the photos you see).
To eat, the restaurants should all be open on Saturdays. I really like the outdoor seating down by the port area. There are a number to choose from and I can't recall names of the ones I liked the best. I tried to eat a lot of seafood in Brittany, Mussels were a cheap option when I was there in September.
To stay, I stayed at the hostel - a longish walk to the port. It's a big place and run by some young families. It wasn't crowded at all when I was there and they likely have some options for private rooms (I was alone so didn't really check but they gave me a room to myself at the dorm price). They have free parking. If you're interested in a budget option, I think it's a good one. There are also some hotels along the port area, probably all have access to parking, and more in the center (parking would likely be at a big parking lot where they have their market. I don't remember the days but I doubt it's on Sundays).
For the next day. I'd suggest Ft. La Latte and maybe later going to St. Malo for the walled city, beach, and tides. Or Cancale for the world's best oysters.
Around Carnac. I really liked Vannes. It has a larger old center than most towns around here plus ramparts and a great port area. Eating, again there are a number of outdoor restaurants with a view of the port (but may not all be open on a Monday night). If not there, you can duck into the old center and find something open. I stayed at an Airbnb place in Vannes that was really nice. I'd just make sure you are walking distance to the center/port rather than further out.
Posted by
OP
Long Beach, Ca, usa
680 posts
Thank you so much! This is just what I was looking for and will spread the word to the newbies about things to do.
Posted by
Columbus, OH, USA
2026 posts
You might look at the Manoir de Rigourdaine. We spent a few nights there and it was quite nice. About 30 minutes drive to either Dinan or St Malo. Ample parking, friendly and helpful owner. Set among fields and views to the river. I know they have triple rooms available as that is what we had. We arrived late and restuarant choices were limited but the owner suggested the nearby restuarant La Cale, along the river. It was quite nice and very convenient, just minutes away by car. Staff were patient and friendly. Seating both indoors and outside. Good luck and safe travels.