A picturesque coastal region, Brittany has a rich maritime heritage seen in its historic port towns: Saint-Malo, surrounded by old ramparts; the medieval capital of Nantes; and the fortified 14th-century Concarneau. The seaside also boasts stylish beach resorts like fashionable Dinard on the Côte d'Emeraude and La Baule on the estuary of the Loire.

The scenery is dramatic and unspoiled, with secluded sandy beaches and a rocky coastline, where wild Atlantic waves crash against the shore. Quaint centuries-old fishing villages are nestled in quiet bays and on tiny windswept offshore islands.

The Breton culture traces its influence back to the Celts (the local dialect is related to Gaelic). Similar to Ireland, it is a land of mythology and legends. Today, Brittany is strongly Catholic. Locals celebrate ancient religious customs called "pardons," special festivals when townspeople wear old-fashioned regional costumes.

The local cuisine is equally intriguing, focused on seafood and savory buckwheat crepes. Brittany also has a famous regional pastry, the "kouign-amann," a buttery pastry made with croissant dough that is layered with sprinkles of sugar, has a moist cake-like center, and a crispy caramelized exterior.