Travel
What to eat and drink in Brittany
Daphné Leprince-Ringuet actually wrote the e book on Brittany – or at the very least the chapter on the area in the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s best-selling France guidebook.
The culinary heritage of Brittany is exclusive – and unmatched wherever else in France.
In any case, this northwestern area provides only a few native cheeses and virtually no wines (sacré bleu!); its consuming tradition as an alternative revolves round crêpes. Such a pancake comes served with completely different toppings, and typical stone-walled crêperies abound in each metropolis, city and village – the Brittany equal of the trattorias of Rome and the bistros of Paris. Whereas the crêpe is straightforward, don’t mistake it for unsophisticated: crêpes are scrumptious and versatile, and can get you hooked very quickly.
Brittany additionally stands out via its extremely high-quality produce, starting from freshly caught fish and shellfish to among the nation’s finest pork. Dishes are sometimes unvarnished, however nearly all the time hearty and attractive – and positive to hit the spot each time.
1. Savor a galette complète
The number of galettes – savory crêpes – on provide in most crêperie might be overwhelming; if doubtful, all the time go for essentially the most basic mixture. No matter your temper, the complète – with egg, ham and cheese folded inside a light-weight and crispy pancake – will do the trick. In case you really feel so inclined, you may all the time add some extras, comparable to onion compote or cooked mushrooms. Few Bretons frown on ordering a second serving to.
The place to strive it: The must-have galette complète is accessible at each single crêperie. Crêperie Saint-Guenhaël in Vannes and La Touline in St-Malo are good locations to begin.
2. Stuff your self with a galette-saucisse
A twist on the historically flat galette, galette-saucisse consists of a grilled pork sausage wrapped in a pancake. Whereas some purists disagree, it’s even higher when filled with onion compote and mustard. A most important staple of the street-food scene within the jap elements of Brittany, it’s obtainable on virtually each nook of Rennes.
The place to strive it: Each Saturday, the scent of galette-saucisse permeates Rennes’ marché des Lices.
3. Carnivores will rejoice within the kig ha farz
One among Brittany’s most monumental dishes, kig ha farz isn’t for vegetarians. Actually which means “meat” (kig) and “stuffing” (farz), it bears some resemblance to the normal pot-au-feu that may be discovered throughout the remainder of France – and equally finds its roots in poorer households and handed-down household cookbooks. Though recipes can fluctuate, the dish often consists of pork and beef stewed with greens and served with a pudding manufactured from buckwheat flour (the identical one that’s used to make galettes). It sometimes comes served with lipig, a decadent buttery-onion-y sauce.
The place to strive it: Kig ha farz is a regional dish that you just’ll largely discover within the northwest of Brittany. Nonetheless largely stored to household kitchens, it may be arduous to pin down in eating places – although Le Restaurant Breton in St-Frégant has it on the menu each different Thursday.
4. Go large with a heaping seafood platter
Few locations in Brittany are removed from the ocean, and the area’s shut hyperlinks to the maritime world are ubiquitous – with meals no exception. Most elements of Brittany focus on sure kinds of shellfish (I’m you, Cancale oysters); these will often come served as a part of an imposing towering seafood platter that features delicacies starting from oysters to crab via prawns and lobster.
The place to strive it: Ideally on a sunny terrasse dealing with the ocean, comparable to Au Pied d’Cheval in Cancale.
5. Savor the ocean with a cotriade
Marseille has the bouillabaisse; Brittany, the cotriade. A dish from Morbihan within the south of the area, cotriade is a stew made with a number of various kinds of native fish and shellfish. The meal has been traditionally cooked by fishermen, who would throw in something and every part that hadn’t been offered for the day. Mussels, prawns, sardines, mackerel, sea bream and extra are mixed into a big pot along with greens, potatoes and herbs, then boiled in broth and white wine till all of it comes collectively in a scrumptious, comforting, sea-flavored soup. A dish to be savored with heat bread and a dry white wine.
The place to strive it: In Lorient, the restaurant Entre Terre et Mer provides an genuine cotriade.
6. Contemplate seaweed, served some ways
Brittany’s coast is Europe’s largest seaweed area, and a few dozen species are harvested to promote as edible merchandise. Largely produced within the northwest of the area, seaweed (algues) is a standard addition to restaurant recipes, and also you’ll discover it on menus within the type of a aspect dish, or tartare; as a flavorful terrine; or sprinkled on high of your most important course. In specialty retailers, you’ll have the ability to purchase seaweed-flavored biscuits and pasta, and even tea and beer. The style can fluctuate considerably: relying on the species, it may add a smooth contact of salt, slightly bitterness or a nutty aftertaste.
The place to strive it: Ima in Rennes is a Japanese-French fusion restaurant that has made Breton seaweed a centerpiece of the menu.
7. Take pleasure in salted-butter caramel
Bretons really feel very strongly about butter – specifically, that it ought to all the time be salted. From this conviction has sprung one of many area’s most mouth-watering delicacies: salted-butter caramel, a thick, candy, gooey sauce that’s eaten most frequently as a crêpe topping. It’s additionally used to taste truffles and ice cream, or just to be loved by itself.
The place to strive it: Any self-respecting crêperie can have a crêpe caramel au beurre salé. At all times make it possible for the caramel is home made; a protected spot to strive it out is Crêperie Au Vieux Quimper in Quimper.
8. Finish on a candy observe with a kouign amann
With a reputation translating as “butter cake,” kouign amann is a simple deal with. Not one to strive for those who’re already full, this candy deal with from Finistère consists of a number of layers of laminated dough filled with huge portions of butter and sugar, and cooked at a low temperature to attain good caramelization. You’ll additionally discover it filled with salted-butter caramel or cooked apples for additional goodness. As soon as described because the “fattiest pastry” in Europe, it’s a must have for anybody with a candy tooth.
The place to strive it: François Kouign Amann in Vannes is the place you’ll discover whole sugar overload and an ideal degree of gooeyness.
9. Dig right into a far breton
Don’t let the unassuming side of the far breton idiot you. Brittany’s specialty cake is much like its better-known cousin, flan – but denser and softer abruptly, and made with salted butter (after all). You may have it as it’s – however to get a style of the true deal, strive the normal model, which is filled with prunes and flavored with rum.
The place to strive it: You’ll discover far breton in most bakeries in Brittany. A very tasty one is from A La Belle Meunière in St-Solid-le-Guildo, which final 12 months positioned first in a contest to find out the area’s finest far.
10. Skip the wine, and style Breton cider and lambig as an alternative
In case you’re heading to the crêperie, neglect about wine: in Brittany, cider’s the stuff to quaff. You’ll be anticipated to eat your galettes and crêpes with a small bowl (or bolée) of tasty cidre breton. Sturdy or gentle, candy or bitter, fruity or flowery: you’ll discover immense number of ciders on provide throughout the area, and it’s well-worth making your option to a cidrerie to seek out out extra about native produce. On the lookout for one thing stronger to finish the meal? You can even strive lambig, a kind of Breton brandy produced by distilling cider and growing old the spirit in oak casks.
The place to strive it: You gained’t should exit of your option to strive native ciders: in bars and eating places throughout Brittany, it’s nearly all the time on the drinks menu. For a go to and a tasting at one of many area’s most revered producers, head to Manoir du Kinkiz close to Quimper.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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