Brittany

The Emerald Coast in Brittany is an amazing place to holiday with the family. Situated along the north side of Brittany it is named after the sea’s emerald colour and lies between Cancale and Cape Frehel. and the coastline is magnificent. Thinking about visiting with toddlers? Read on to learn why it might be a good place to consider for your next family holiday to France.

1. Toddler-friendly holiday accommodation at Emerald Coast Gites

Doesn’t get more baby and toddler friendly than Emerald Coast Gites. There are seven child-friendly holiday cottages and three lodges, perfect for families with babies, toddlers, and older children too.

During high/peak season enjoy a family pizza night and meet new friends, or why not join in the wine and cheese evenings while the kids play. There is also an onsite bar serving cocktails and various drinks.

There are two heated swimming pools, a soft play area and during high season kid’s activities such as arts and crafts, film night, rounders and more.

Packing is a doddle as there are plenty of baby and toddler items – playmats, cutlery, blackout blinds, booster seats, bed guards the list goes on and the gites are located just 15 minutes from the beautiful beaches in the region…

2. Beaches

The beaches of the Emerald Coast are perfect for young children. They are clean, sandy and very beautiful. There are a few worth a mention: Pleneuf Val Andre, St Cast Le Guido, Caroual Plage, St Pabu, Petit Mont St Michel, Erquy, St Jacut de la Mer and Sables D’or Les Pins. There are also beaches that are good for body boarding, surfing, rock climbing and foraging/crabbing.

3. Location

It’s easy to get to. Situated in northeast France the Emerald Coast in Brittany is just a ferry ride away from the UK. Brittany Ferries is probably the most popular, Portsmouth to St Malo is most common – Portsmouth port facilities include baby and changing room and breastfeeding area and a bar and café. Brittany Ferries offer day and overnight options . most days throughout the year with overnight crossings taking approx. 11 hours. Evening departures allow for an evening meal on board and breakfast before porting at 8.15. Book a seat or a cabin, there is something for every budget. The cabins are en suite and air-conditioned so you can arrive refreshed, and they also provide towels and bed linen. Their flagship boat is the Pont-Aven, the largest in the fleet of Brittany Ferries and boasts, cinemas, children’s playroom, children’s entertainment, pool spa, live entertainment and more. Your holiday starts as soon as you step on board! So you can opt for a day or night – sleep or take advantage of the on board family experience.

Another Ferry company is Condor Ferries, they sale from Poole to St Malo and their sail time is from 6 hrs 20 – they offer a duty free shop and bars and restaurants.

4. History and culture

The Emerald Coast offers a look into French culture and a wealth of cultural experience and rich history. From seaside city of St Malo, pebbled streets encased in old town walls, restaurants, bars, music, stalls and a brilliant atmosphere to medieval castles and impressive landmarks such as Mont St Michel.

5. Days out for families with toddlers

The beaches need to be mentioned again, and the seaside towns as they are just amazing for kids.

For a look into the world under the sea, the Aquarium at St Malo has lots of sea creatures and also a submarine ride.

Velo Rail Medreac – fun day out where you can pedal two bikes strapped side by side and ride along the old train track – children under eight can be popped in a special seat!

This is a taster of what there is to keep families entertained on a holiday in the Emerald Coast Brittany. It’s a great place to get away and enjoy a little culture and far enough from the UK to feel like you are on holiday.

Happy holidays