Emerald Coast Walk, France

<p>An outright winner from the outset, this walk is simply stunning. The dramatic scenery, wealth of colours and mediaeval influences distinguish it from all other holidays in our programme.<br><br> During the first few days of your holiday, you will be walking along the magnificent paths that hug the northern coast. It’s a landscape of pinky-gold cliffs, secret coves, deserted, heather-backed beaches and traditional Breton fishing 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.<br><br> 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 medieval charm remains today.<br><br> 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.</p><p><strong>Detailed Itinerary:</strong></p><p><strong>Day 1 - Arrive at Lamballe</strong><br>Your holiday starts at M. Jamin's C16 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. <br><br><strong>Day 2 - Lamballe to Sables d'Or-Les-Pins</strong> 17km/11mi/5hr<br>First, a short transfer to the tiny Breton fishing port of Dahouet. 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 it’s inland and on to our lovely hotel at Sables d'Or-Les-Pins. <br><br><strong>Day 3 - At Sables d'Or-Les-Pins</strong><br>Sables d'Or-Les-Pins is a lovely seaside village with magnificent 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 fishing village with some outstanding seafood restaurants for lunch. <br><strong><br>Day 4 - Sables d'Or-Les-Pins to Dinard</strong> 17km/11mi/5hr<br>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 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. <br><br><strong>Day 5 - At Dinard</strong><br>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 des Etretes for views of the off-shore islands, or take a 10-minute water taxi across the bay to St Malo and lose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets within the Intra Muros (fortified walls) of the ancient mediaeval city. <br><br><strong>Day 6 - Dinard to Dinan</strong> 21km/13mi/6hr<br>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. <br><br><strong>Day 7 - At Dinan</strong><br>This beautifully preserved ancient walled town, with riverfront port 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.</p><p><br><strong>Day 8 - Dinan to Plorec/Lamballe</strong> 22km/14mi/6hr<br>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 13C Chateau de la Hunaudaye whose ruins date back over 800 years. <br><br><strong>Day 9 - Leave Lamballe</strong><br><br><strong>Is this trip for you? </strong><br>This is a 2 boot Independent walking holiday (See Headwater’s Boot Rating System), which offers varied walking following well marked GR routes along coastal paths, river banks, country lanes and shady forest tracks. Some steep, but short, ascents and descents, but a good head for heights is not necessary. It is mid-difficult range of 2 boot walking because the distances are long. Following GR routes all the time, the routes are well marked. There are no long steep climbs. This holiday would best suit couples or families with older children. Routes are quite long and fairly tough, so not suitable for young children. There is something for everyone on this holiday, beaches, seaside towns, rolling countryside and forest trails, sightseeing at historical chateaux, fort and medieval towns. Nature lovers will enjoy the rugged unspoilt coastline, bird watching opportunities from the coastal paths and along the banks of the River Rance.<br><br></p>