Brittany - land of legends and contrasts
Enjoy a cruise on gentle waterways between pine covered rolling
hills, across heather moorlands, through peaceful farmland
and orchards. The wide estuaries of Rivers Erdre, Vilaine
and Rance contrast with the canal-rivers in the uplands of
Brittany.
 Brittany
is a magical land, alive with folklore, festivals and tradition.
Ancient megaliths and stones reflect its Celtic past, with
churches and chateaux a reminder of its historical importance.
You will find friendliness and a genuine welcome from the
local Breton people.
From our base at Messac we offer a one-way cruise to Dinan on the River Vilaine
which links with the Canal d’Ille et Rance at Rennes
with its appealing old town and numerous shops and boutiques.
 After
the spectacular Hede lock staircase, you arrive at enchanting
Dinan.
On a hillside overlooking the wooded valley of the Rance,
Dinan is an ancient market town surrounded by ramparts.
Magnificent half-timbered houses and cobbled streets overlook
the old port, once a busy harbour now a boating centre with
quayside cafes.
Heading south eastwards from Messac there is a one-way route
to Nort-sur-Erdre via Redon on the Canal de Nantes a Brest.
 You
will join the lovely River Erdre which King Francoise I decreed
was the most beautiful in France. According to a Breton legend,
100 castles were built along its banks. If time cruise to
Nantes, whose 15th century castle was once home to the Dukes
of Brittany.
If you prefer to set out for a round trip from Messac, several
choices are possible. Cruise towards Malestroit and Josselin
on the Canal de Nantes à Brest. Narrow waterways through
dense forest followed by flat, reedy plains provide a total
contrast before beautiful Chateau Josselin appears in the
distance.
Picturesque villages and historic towns offer abundant sea
food of the very highest quality. Food here is a simple treat
- salmon, lobster, mussels, oysters, salt-marsh lamb and a
tantalizing range of crepes - accompanied by crisp, clear
Muscadet or local cider.
Brittany Cruiser Boat
Holidays
West of France boat bases and routes
NEW: View Brittany boating holiday bases in Google Earth and get driving instructions
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