Emerald Coast Walk

Itinerary

During the first few days of your holiday, you will be walking along the magnifi cent paths that hug the northern coast. It's a landscape of pinky-gold cliffs, secret coves, deserted, heatherbacked beaches and traditional Breton fi shing villages untouched by tourism. It is perfect for exploring on foot and, at every turn, you're rewarded with fabulous panoramic views of the entire Emerald Coast.

Heading inland, the route takes you along the banks of the river Rance and on through the majestic Hunaudaye Forest. Highlights include the feudal Fort de la Latte and the beautiful stone-crafted town of Dinan. In the Middle Ages, Dinan served as one of the main strategic strongholds of the Duchy of Brittany and much of her mediaeval charm remains today. The hotels you stay in are full of contrasts too and include a lovely seaside hotel in Sables d'Or-Les-Pins and a superbly located 3-star hotel built into the ramparts in the heart of historic Dinan.

• Day 1: Arrive at Lamballe

  Your holiday starts at M. Jamin's C16th manor house in the countryside just 3kms outside the market town of Lamballe. With only 15 rooms, it's a lovely intimate place to stay. The inner courtyard opens up on to beautifully kept gardens and elegant terrace for al fresco dining on fine summer evenings.

• Day 2: Lamballe to Sables d'Or-Les-Pins 17km/11mi/5 hr

  A short transfer to the tiny Breton fi shing port of Dahou't. From here, it's coastal walking at its best: extensive views, aquamarine seas, white sandy beaches and rocky coves - don't foget your swimming things! Lunch on the beach at Caroual then inland and on to our lovely hotel at Sables d'Or-Les-Pins.

• Day 3: At Sables d'Or-Les Pins

  Sables d'Or-Les-Pins is a lovely seaside village with magnifi cent golden sand beaches. It would be easy to 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 fi shing village with some outstanding seafood restaurants for lunch.

• Day 4: Sables d'Or-Les Pins to Dinard 17 km/11mi/5 hr

  Deserted beaches and heather-topped cliffs provide the colourful artists backdrop for today's walk which leads you via the Cap Frehel lighthouse (look out for nesting seabirds) to the famous C14th 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 magnifi cent coastal views, out as far as Jersey on a clear day.

• 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. Walk out to the Pointe desetretes for views of the off-shore islands, or take a 10-minute ferry shuttle across the bay to St Malo and lose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets within the Intra Muros (fortifi ed walls) of the ancient mediaeval city.

• Day 6: Dinard to Dinan 21 km/13mi/6 hr

  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 is an absolute gem. Wander round the marvellously restored ancient squares, visit the imposing C13th castle, admire the flamboyant Gothic basilica and stroll the lovely cobbled streets packed with authentic artisan workshops.

• Day 8: Dinan to Plorec/Lamballe 22km/14mi/6 hr

  A short transfer (provided) then off along the Pays du Tour du Penthievre where shady woodland paths skirt the river as far as the impressive C13th Cheteau de la Hunaudaye whose ruins date back over 800 years.

• Day 9: Leave Lamballe

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