Looking for a nature weekend that combines discovery, escape and slow-paced activities in an eco-responsible spirit? Discover the unexpected treasures of Dinan-Cap Fréhel.
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Looking for a green weekend getaway? Dinan-Cap Fréhel is the destination of choice for beach relaxation, nature outings and sporting activities. The treasure of the Emerald Coast, it has that special Brittany character and offers a wide range of activities for couples, friends and families, whatever the season.
But that’s not all: the destination is very conscious of environmental and social issues, and is actively committed to sustainable tourism. In this article, we reveal the many assets of Dinan-Cap Fréhel!
1. A region committed to the environment
Photo credit: Shutterstock -Finn Spethmann Fotografie
An unspoilt natural setting
Dinan-Cap Fréhel’s unspoilt, wild landscapes make it an ideal destination for a nature weekend. At Cap Fréhel, admire the colors of the flowers that carpet the moors and take time to observe the wildlife that inhabits the coastline. You may come across seabirds such as the Crested Cormorant or the Common Murre. And if you’re lucky, you may even come across a porpoise!
Cap Fréhel belongs to the Grands Sites de France and Natura 2000 networks. The aim of these labels is to manage and enhance exceptional natural sites. Maintaining biodiversity and developing sustainable tourism are key issues, and they also depend on your actions! So, when you’re out and about, behave respectfully:
- Put your garbage in the garbage can;
- Read the signs and respect the facilities;
- Stay away from animals and don’t try to make contact with them;
- Don’t pick or trample flora.
Sustainable and responsible tourism
Aware of environmental issues, the region is committed to sustainable tourism. The Dinan-Cap Fréhel tourist office is a member of the Acteurs du Tourisme durable network, which promotes more responsible practices.
What does this commitment mean in concrete terms? Here are the actions undertaken by the region:
- Raising staff awareness of sustainable development;
- Raising visitor awareness of the importance of preserving environmental quality;
- Support for sustainable development projects;
- Promotion of short circuits;
- Development of slow-tourism and soft mobility solutions;
- Promotion of outdoor activities.
2. Eco-friendly nature tours
Photo credit: Office de tourisme Dinan-Cap Fréhel
Want to explore the Dinan-Cap Fréhel area? Avoid the car! A weekend in the countryside can’t do without soft mobility solutions. Especially here, where the landscape stretches out gently… An ideal playground for a family outing, a hike or a bike ride.
Out and about
Would you like to discover the treasures of the Dinan-Cap Fréhel region in a gentle way? Just the thing, the region is home to some very pretty trails, which you can cover in less than 2 hours. Here are a few ideas:
- Combine historical discovery with a refreshing interlude on the banks of the Rance, walking from Dinan castle to Léhon abbey;
- Discover one of Brittany’s most beautiful beaches at Sable-d’Or-les-Pins;
- If you’re looking for a more intimate getaway, head to the charming village of Saint-Germain to admire the ruins of the Moulin de la Mer.
Numerous other suggestions for outings can be found on the Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourisme website.
In hiking mode
Keen hikers will also be delighted by a nature weekend at Cap Fréhel. The famous « sentier des douaniers » (GR34) crosses the area, offering breathtaking views of the sea, beaches, dunes and moors. And if you’re looking for more intimate, bucolic landscapes, head for the Rance valley, a protected natural site surrounded by villages of unique charm.
By bike
Fancy taking to the roads by bike? The V2 and V3 cycle routes follow the old railroad line, now converted into a greenway, to join the towpath. They then separate, one heading towards Rennes, the other towards Morbihan via the commune of Le Quiou. The area is also irrigated by the Vélomaritime. Passing Cap Fréhel and Fort-la-Latte, it allows you to discover the coastline in all its diversity.
3. The Vallée de la Rance, a picturesque treasure trove of calm and relaxation.
Photo credit: Office de tourisme Dinan-Cap Fréhel – Alexandre Lamoureux
Focus on the Rance and its valley
The Rance rises in Le Mené, Côtes d’Armor. It is a fast, winding river, which widens into a languid canal, passing through the medieval city of Dinan, with its exceptional historical heritage. Before flowing into the English Channel, the Rance forms a tidal estuary, home to a unique biodiversity.
The Rance valley offers beautiful natural landscapes, which stand out from the coast thanks to their calm and intimacy. But how can you enjoy them in an eco-responsible way?
A few ideas for slow-paced activities on the banks of the Rance
To make the most of your nature weekend, here are a few ideas for activities in the Rance valley:
- Take a bike ride along the towpath;
- Stop by the river for a bucolic picnic with friends or family;
- Enjoy a drink on the terraces of Dinan harbour;
- Visit the Maison de la Rance, a space dedicated to the valley’s biodiversity;
- Hire a nature guide to discover the local flora and fauna.
And to sail on the water :
- Rent a paddle or kayak;
- Take an electric boat from Dinan harbor and discover the Rance on your own;
- Embark on a guided cruise.
4. The Emerald Coast, a magnificent coastline of lush natural beauty
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Ekaterina Pokrovsky
Set course for the Emerald Coast!
Dinan-Cap Fréhel is located on the Emerald Coast, nicknamed for the color of its water. The destination offers a wide variety of landscapes: wild dunes, craggy rocks, sandy beaches and lively seaside resorts.
Looking for a family destination? Head for Saint-Cast-le-Guildo. Stroll along the harbor, admire the villas and enjoy oysters by the water… All around, you’ll find large sandy beaches as well as small secret coves. They’ve been designed with tourism in mind, without sacrificing the beauty of the landscape.
Nearby, the immense beach of Sable-d’Or-les-Pins also attracts visitors. Its wild character and the many activities on offer make for a weekend in the countryside. The seaside resort’s identity also rests on its characteristic Belle Époque architecture. A real gem!
Some ideas for slow activities on the Channel coast
How can you make the most of your stay on the Emerald Coast? Here are a few ideas for eco-responsible activities to enjoy with family, friends, couples or even solo:
- Relax on the beach: swimming, napping, sand castles… You get the idea!
- Hike or bike along the coastline;
- Bring your binoculars for seabird watching;
- Rent a paddle, kite-surf or sand yacht to explore the bay on the wind alone;
- Plan a day on a sailboat;
- Pass through the doors of local shops and restaurants.
5. A wide variety of local producers and artisans
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Nailia Schwarz
As you can see, Dinan-Cap Fréhel is committed to sustainable, eco-responsible tourism. And this commitment includes promoting local producers and artisans! During your weekend in the countryside, discover the flavours of the region while consuming responsibly. Here are a few addresses you should know about.
To taste authentic Breton cider
To enjoy a bowl of cider – or a delicious local apple juice for the kids – visit the Beausoleil farm in Matignon, the Prié cider house or the Ferme des Landes cider house.
To discover galettes and crêpes dentelles
Don’t miss these Breton specialties during your stay! In the shops, turn to Les Gavottes, delicious crêpes dentelles made in Dinan. And if you’re more into galettes than crêpes, head to the markets: you’ll find food-trucks selling not only crêpes, but also delicious galettes baked on the spot…
For the best seafood
Does the sea spray from the English Channel give you a culinary craving? Many oyster farmers offer oysters from the Baie de l’Arguenon and the Baie de la Fresnaye: a delicious treat! Also worth discovering: fish rillettes and seaweed tartars from the Les Poissons de Marion artisanal cannery. And for scallops and smoked fish, head to the Fumoir de Saint-Cast. You’ll even discover some of the secrets of artisanal production…
For a taste of chocolate or salted butter caramel
Chocolate lover? Fond of salted butter caramel? Discover the sweets of Maison Bazille: macaroons, iced pastries and other chocolate delights… You’re bound to find what you’re looking for! Alternatively, Breton artisan Johann Dubois honors chocolate in all its forms. An ideal address for those with a sweet tooth.
To buy seasonal fruit and vegetables
Looking to recharge your batteries after a long walk? Discover Brittany’s local producers of certified organic seasonal fruit and vegetables. There’s no shortage of addresses: Les Vergers de la Baie, Les Jardins de l’Aubenière, Les fruits des bois au Quiou… So you can shop local even on vacation!
Find out more about Dinan-Cap Fréhel.