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Day 2: Lamballe to Sables d’Or-Les-Pins 37km/21mi
Gentle cycling first along quiet country lanes then out along the coast to the lively sailing resort of Pléneuf-Val-André. The white sandy beaches here are simply gorgeous so make sure that you take your swimming things with you today! There are also some excellent ocean-facing restaurants for a long seafood lunch. You continue along the coast to St Pabu where you turn inland, crossing Cap d’Erquy, and back to the coast at Sables d’Or-Les-Pins.

Day 3: At Sables d’Or-Les-Pins
Relax on the beach or follow our circular cycling route taking in the Cap Fréhel lighthouse and the famous C14 feudal stronghold of Fort de la Latte. Perched on a rocky promontory above the sea, it occupies one of the finest settings in northern France, and it’s easy to see why it’s been used on numerous film sets. A climb up to the gallery at the top of the tower will reward you with magnificent views – out right across the ocean to Jersey on a clear day.

Day 4: Sables d’Or-Les-Pins to Dinard 47km/29mi
Today’s route starts by gentle peddaling through pretty farming hamlets - wonderful views acorss the Baie de la Fresnaye. Stop for a coffee perhaps in the bustling market town of Matignon then on via the popular yachting village of Lancieux – impressive square bell tower capped by a dome and lantern turret – and on to St Briac where Debussy composed his major work “The Sea”. The final stretch takes you to our hotel in St Enogat, just 10 minutes walk from the centre of Dinard.

Day 5: At Dinard
Once a sleepy fishing village on the estuary of the Rance, the English transformed the town into one of the most famous and upmarket resorts in Europe.  Although a little quieter now, it has not lost any of its charm.  Many of the “Belle Époque” villas, overlooking the fabulous white sandy beaches, have become historic monuments, and the Marine Centre and National History Museum are both worth a visit. Walk out to the Pointe des Étrêtes for views of the off-shore islands, or take a 10-minute ferry across the bay to St Malo and loose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets within the Intra Muros (fortified walls) of the ancient mediaeval city.

Day 6: Dinard to Dinan (39km/22mi )
A complete change of scene today as you cycle inland – usually flat! – and follow the banks of the river Rance. You’ll feel like you’re taking a trip back in time as you pass sleepy hamlets and forgotten fishing ports – look out for the stilted fishing huts at Les Hisses. Our hotel in Dinan overlooks the river and has a lovely outdoor swimming pool if you fancy a dip. There’s also a lovely patio for pre-dinner apéritifs overlooking the picturesque port.

Day 7: At Dinan
This beautifully preserved ancient walled town, with riverfront port and picturesque half-timbered buildings, is an absolute gem. Wander round the marvellously restored ancient squares, visit the imposing C13 castle, admire the flamboyant Gothic basilica and stroll the lovely cobbled streets packed with authentic artisan workshops. Lunch perhaps in the bustling Place des Merciers where pretty triangular-gabled houses are further examples of Dinan’s exceptional architectural heritage.

Day 8: Dinan to Lamballe (44km/25mi )
First stop today is the picturesque little village of Léhon – C9 abbey - then on through quiet farming villages to the impressive 13C Château de la Hunaudaye. The ruins of this huge château date back over 800 years, yet the 5 majestic towers are still in good condition and are surrounded by water-filled moat. It’s gentle, flat cycling through the forest back to Lamballe where you can relax in the gardens and enjoy a celebratory drink before dinner – a Kir Breton(cassis and cider) maybe?

Day 9: Departure
Leave Lamballe after breakfast.