The Rugged Elegance of Brittany

I spent a day this week at the “Mecca” of school rugby: the Rosslyn Park Sevens. While I was there to cheer on my son and his incredible team (whom GlamperRV is so proud to sponsor!), an added bonus was reconnecting with old friends from across the country. The common thread? Apparently, you’ve all been enjoying my scribes in this newsletter! We had a good laugh about how my geography of the British Isles has become encyclopedic thanks to my GlamperRV adventures. If there is one other place where my geography truly excels, it is Brittany, hence this newsletter on a Brittany GlamperRV adventure. Whether it’s the nostalgic pull of childhood holidays or more recent trips to visit my husband’s family, this region has a soul that resonates deeply with me. It is rugged, refined, and best enjoyed at the “snails-pace” speed that only a motorhome can provide.

Your Brittany GlamperRV Adventure Itinerary

Our preferred gateway is the Brittany Ferries route from Portsmouth to Saint-Malo. There is something undeniably restorative about an overnight cruise; it’s the perfect transition from the frantic pace of home life to the calm of the holiday.

They have recently launched a new vessel on this route, the Saint-Malo, which takes the experience to another level. It feels less like a ferry and more like a boutique hotel on the water.

Once you disembark, don’t be in a rush to hit the autoroute. Stop at the Paul Féval Park & Ride—it’s specifically designed for motorhomes (you can even stay overnight) with a quick shuttle into the town centre. Explore the Intra-Muros (the old walled town) on foot; it’s a labyrinth of granite buildings, upmarket boutiques, and crêperies that smell of salted caramel and woodsmoke.

My Curated Brittany Circuit

From the “Emerald Coast” in the north to the wild west of Finistère, here are my must-see stops:

Dinan: The Medieval Masterpiece A stunning town perched high above the River Rance. It’s all timber-framed houses and steep cobbled streets.

• Where to stay: Camping Municipal Chateaubriand. Located at the foot of the ramparts; perfect for evening strolls to the historic port.

Erquy: Scallops and Sandy Shores A quintessential seaside resort. If you enjoy seafood, this is the place to go.

• Where to stay: Camping Plage de St Pabu for direct beach access, or head slightly inland to the highly-rated Camping La Vallée for a quieter, more intimate feel.

Ploumanac’h: The Pink Granite Coast Famous for the extraordinary rose-tinted rock formations.

• Top Tip: Park up and walk the coastal paths near Trégastel for some of the most “otherworldly” sunset views in Europe.

The Crozon Peninsula: The Atlantic Edge Prepare to be blown away by the wild, “end of the world” scenery. It is Brittany at its most untamed.

• Where to stay: Camping de L’Aber. It offers spectacular views south overlooking the Bay of Douarnenez.

Quimper: Culture and Gardens The cultural heart of the region, famous for its twin-spired cathedral and hand-painted pottery.

• Where to stay: L’Orangerie de Lanniron. A stunning Sunelia site set within the formal gardens of a historic Château.

Concarneau: The Walled Port A vibrant fishing port with a fascinating “closed city” (Ville Close) nestled right in the harbour.

• Where to stay: Les Sables Blancs. Ideal for soaking up the maritime atmosphere and fresh sea air.

Quiberon: Dunes and Drama A dramatic peninsula with a wild western coastline and white sandy beaches to the east.

• Where to stay: Camping Beausejour. Perfectly situated for exploring the rugged dunes and coastal trails.

The Rhuys Peninsula: Enjoy this popular area known for its modern marinas, beaches, and stunning views of the gulf of Morbihan.

• Where to stay: Camping de Bilouis.  Pay a little extra for one of the sea view pitches at this small, perfectly located campsite.

Whether you are seeking the “slow life” on the Crozon Peninsula or a gastronomic tour of the Gulf of Morbihan, Brittany remains a firm favourite for a reason.

Best month to visit: June.

Any tips on planning your Brittany getaway please do get in touch.

In the meantime, happy planning!