5 ideas for slow family travel in Brittany

Brittany's coasts, bays and archipelagos are home to numerous marine mammals and birds, which can be observed in their natural environment very discreetly, while respecting them at all times. Some species, such as the bottlenose dolphin, live in Brittany all year round. These impressive mammals can be observed all year round in the Normandy-Brittany Gulf, and over 400 pass through the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel! This is also the case for the grey seal, which has taken up residence in the Iroise Natural Marine Park, home to the largest colony in France. On land or at sea, young and old alike will be amazed to meet these animals.

Stretching between the Channel and the Atlantic, the Breton coastline is yours for the taking. It's the longest coastline in France, exquisite and ever-changing with the seasons and tides. What about taking the whole family on a voyage of discovery aboard an old sailing ship? Famous for having answered the call of 18th June, the 'Corbeau des Mers' will teach you about traditional navigation and the Gulf of Morbihan. This 1931 lobster boat has been completely renovated. Eric, a passionate skipper, will tell you about the maritime history and the wonders of the Gulf while involving you in the sailing and manoeuvres. You'll fall under the spell of this pearl of Southern Brittany, a recognised Regional Natural Park. Perfect for making lasting family memories.

In Brittany, you can teach your children about the planet while enjoying some quirky accommodation. There are several choices for families who want to get closer to nature and its values. The La Belle Verte ecolodges have been entirely designed to reduce their carbon footprint as much as possible, are a real haven of peace in the middle of nature. Tempted by farm stay? Little ones will love the eco gîtes and guest rooms at the Coet Kra farm, as they can feed the animals here too. For a bit of fun, head to La Belle Folie, a hybrid place where you can relax and meet people, with a nod to the environment at the same time. Sleep in a caravan perched on a menhir, in a woven house or a cactus, while enjoying the guinguette restaurant with its local, seasonal dishes.

Time to explore Brittany by bike! With its 'voies vertes' (green ways), the whole family can cycle with complete peace of mind - these are secure routes reserved for pedestrians, cyclists, rollerbladers and sometimes horses. Nine routes criss-cross Brittany over more than 1,700km and through very different landscapes. The Nantes-Brest Canal, for example, links the two cities and will take you along several rivers and past even more locks, trees and animals! You can also cross an old railway line, the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel and the Bay of Quiberon. A fun and enjoyable way to experience Brittany, at your own pace.

Who hasn't heard of the legend of King Arthur? But what you may not know is that it has its roots in the magnificent Brocéliande Forest. This is a magical site to explore as a family, accompanied by a guide to truly immerse yourself in the legends of the fairy Viviane and Merlin. Don't miss the Door of Secrets, an exhibition area with audio guides in various languages, offering an amazing show trail. Listen to the sounds of the forest and wander through the Korrigans Cave. And you'll be bewitched by the menhirs of Monteneuf, set in an expanse of gorse and heather. These hundreds of megaliths and dolmens make up a large part of Brittany's remarkable archaeological heritage.