Hello, looking for suggestions on old, well-preserved medieval towns, don't miss scenic vistas, old chateau's, B&B, etc in the Brittany, Western Loire Valley, Poltou Charente and possibly the Aquantaine areas of western France. We will have 7 nights to spend in this area. Arriving Nantes via train from Paris, then will rent a car to visit this area. Thanks!
Posted by
Portland
3635 posts
I particularly recommend that you visit Arcachon and the Dune du Pyla, near Bordeaux. We signed up for a walking tour at the TI office which took us around town to see the fascinating architecture (not medieval, but interesting nonetheless). The dune is the largest in Europe, and is an amazing sight. I think I'm remembering correctly that it is over 100 meters high. We also liked Quimper and LaRochelle.
Posted by
Austin, Texas, United States
3 posts
Am going to Brittany for ten days next fall - so am really interested in the replies to Jeff's query. Anyone have experience staying in a Gite?
Posted by
Ojai, CA
591 posts
You would probably like the towns of Fougeres and Dinan in Brittany.
Posted by
dallas, tx, usa
1358 posts
In reply to Margaret's question about staying in Gites, I will say there is very little diff in them and pensions, inns or hostels.
Do a google search for 'town name gite'
Each one has a different character with different amenities. Pick some and read their web pages to make your decision.
After 20 years of travel in Europe, my choice to save money is always a hostel if it is conveniently located.
Posted by
Fort Myers, FL, USA
264 posts
In Brittany, add St. Malo!
Posted by
Grapevine, TX, USA
875 posts
In Brittany we enjoyed Concarneau and Pont Aven (so beautiful with a river running through it!). Lovely old walled village in Concarneau. Quimper looked very nice, but we were only passing through.
Posted by
OP
Ft Collins
39 posts
Thank you everyone for such great suggestions!
Posted by
Charlotte, NC
10 posts
I spent 2 weeks traveling around France last May. I really liked the Amboise area. It is a small town but has a great chateau there. The name is Clos-Lucé. That's where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last three years of his life. You can see all of the town in a day or less. It might be a great place for a base camp because there are a number of chateau's along the La Lorie River. A quick suggestion would be to tell the front desk if you have to leave early in the morning. I woke up at 5 to catch a 6am train and there was no one at the front desk of the hotel. All the doors and windows were locked. I ended up having to jump out of my second story window to get to the train station on time. I ended up calling them later in the day and telling them what happened. They said that if I told them that I had to leave early then someone would have been there. Hope this helps