Emerald Coast, A Gem Of France

When you visit the Emerald Coast you will discover some of France's most impressive coastline, with rocky headlands jutting into the sea and backed by a landscape of gorse and heather, numerous small beaches and villages, and several fascinating historical towns.

The Emerald Coast is the name given to the stretch of coast between Cap Frehel in the west and almost to Mont-Saint-Michel in the east, in northern Brittany. The section of coast falls in two departments of Brittany: Ille-et-Vilaine and Côtes d'Armor. The coast takes its name from the colour of the sea in the region under certain conditions - an idea inspired by the success of the name "Cote d'Azur" in promoting tourism in Mediterranean France.

Start your exploration of the scenic highlights perhaps by visiting the headland at Cap Fréhel, which is among the most impressive scenic highlights in the region with its dramatic cliffs and a setting typical of the Emerald Coast, or at the Pointe du Grouin headland north of Cancale.

The broad sandy beaches at Erquy and Val-André are among the most popular, although many others are to be found in the coastal resorts and scattered between the more jagged stretches of coastline.

From abandoned forts to prehistoric dolmens, from small chapels to grand manor houses and small fishing cottages, and from the grand 17th century houses of Saint-Malo to the 19th century villas so typical of towns such as Dinard, Saint-Briac and Saint-Lunaire, there are numerous architectural highlights to be enjoyed here.

Although slightly outside the Emerald Coast, no visit would be complete without also visiting the island and abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel, one of the most impressive (and popular) destinations in France.