dossier
Emerald Coast Walk
Day 1: Arrive at Lamballe
M and Mme Laval’s friendly hotel in the centre of this charming little market town is a great starting point for your holiday. It’s worth making time before dinner to wander up to the Gothic Collégiate Church of Notre Dame which dominates the town.
Day 2: Lamballe to Sables d’ Or-Les-Pins 18km/12mi/5hr
A short transfer to the tiny Breton fishing
Day 3: At Sables d’Or-Les-Pins
Sables d’Or-Les-Pins is a lovely seaside resort with magnificent golden sand beaches. You could just spend the day here, however we strongly recommend following our suggested circular walk (full route notes provided) along the spectacular GR34 around the cliff and on to nearby Cap d’Erquy - a delightful fishing village with some outstanding seafood restaurants for lunch.
Day 4: Sables d’Or-Les-Pins to Dinard 15km/9mi/4hr
Deserted beaches and heather-topped cliffs provide the colourful artists backdrop for today’s walk which leads you via the Cap Fréhel lighthouse (look out for nesting seabirds) to the famous C14 feudal stronghold of Fort de la Latte. Perched on a rocky promontory over the ocean, this castle occupies one of the finest sites in Brittany – climb up the tower for magnificent coastal views, out as far as Jersey on a clear day. We meet you here and take you on to your hotel in Dinard where you’ll spend the next two nights.
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. 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 21km/13mi/6hr
Starting from the picturesque Breton village of Langrolay-sur-Rance (lift provided), today’s route takes you inland, mostly following the course of the river. It’s wonderfully tranquil walking through shady forests, fruit orchards, and along peaceful riverside paths. Our 3-star hotel in Dinan is superbly located within the ramparts of the mediaeval old town and boasts a lovely rooftop garden with great views.
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.
Day 8: Dinan to Lamballe 22km/14mi/6hr
A short transfer (provided) then off along the Pays du Tour du Penthièvre where shady woodland paths skirt the river as far as the impressive 13C Château de la Hunaudaye whose ruins date back over 800 years. Broad forest tracks take you back to Lamballe for your final evening.
Day 9: Leave Lamballe