Unique Things to Do in Brittany
Brittany is a popular location for family holidays in France for so many reasons; the stunning natural landscape, the temperate climes, some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and not forgetting the excellent local cuisine and proud heritage which all combine to make Brittany such a special region of France. There are so many unique things to do in Brittany which often get missed in round-ups of interesting things to do, so we have compiled a list of some of our favourite things to do for those visitors who need some additional cultural stimulation when they have tired of laying in the sunshine. Enjoy!
The Phare d’Eckmühl
One of the tallest lighthouses in the world, also known as Point Penmarc’h, is based right here in 
the Finistère region of Brittany. Located on the tip of Saint-Pierre, The Phare d’Eckmühl was built in 1835 and is one of the most visited monuments in France. The majestic structure reaches 213feet in height and those who take on the challenge of climbing the 307-step spiral staircase will be duly rewarded by the heart-stirring views over the Bay of Biscay and beyond from the vantage point of this stunning historic monument in Brittany. With opaline glass set in the curved walls, a polished bronze handrail and stunning marble ceiling, the beauty within the Eckmühl Lighthouse is rivalled only by the beauty seen from the top of this stunning monument (make sure you go at sunset so that you can witness the perfection of nature’s fiery finale underneath starry skies… incredible.)
Art Classes in Brittany
In Pont-Aven the new Museum of Beaux arts has just opened its doors with pieces by Paul Gauguin and various loans from the Musee d’Orsay. There is also a little-known secret which we are delighted to be able to share with those of you who have a penchant for art and a hankering for creativity; Melissa Ferreira is a contemporary fine artist and freelance illustrator with a vivacious character and a passion for educating people about art. As well as offering more structured art classes daily from her art studio in Pont-Aven, Melissa delights in introducing people to the world of art by inviting them to explore and relish different textures and art mediums to truly unleash their creativity. Art Scraps is a brilliant way to spend an afternoon if you’re looking a unique thing to do in Brittany off the usual tourist track, we highly recommend it and think budding artists of all ages will love Melissa’s studio.
Pottery Classes in Brittany
Talented local ceramicist Nathalie Derouet runs regular pottery classes in Douarnenez which are a great activity to do in Brittany when the weather isn’t quite so clement. Nathalie specialises in stunning ceramic creations inspired by nature; chrysanthemums, seafoam and delicate lace structures all feature in her work. Try a pottery class in Brittany so that you can not only enjoy an afternoon immersed in local culture, but also take home a keepsake which you have personally created to remember your perfect family holiday in Finistere.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Brittany
This peaceful wate
rsport has seen a huge surge in popularity over the past few years and “SUP-ing” (as it is known) suits all ages and all abilities. The sport of SUP-ing is supremely flexible and easy to do because it can be enjoyed everywhere – no matter what the weather. The large boards used in stand-up paddle boarding are more stable than a surfboard and don’t require the same level of practice to be able to stand atop the board and effortlessly glide on the water. If you haven’t tried stand-up paddle boarding you simply must try it- there’s nothing as wonderful as exploring secret coves and hidden coastlines from atop a silent craft with the beautiful surroundings of the Crozon peninsula as your backdrop. Surf and SUP courses are easy to find in the area and are a great way to explore the simply breath-taking coast. Get Up Stand Up give courses from Mousterlin and Beg Meil, where you can get a sea view of some of the outstanding chateaux and properties on this picturesque stretch of coastline, 29hood has courses a at Pors Carm, which is a great place if you are ready to try and surf small small waves.