Located in the northwest region of France, Brittany is one of the six Celtic nations. Brittany once consisted of five departments. Moving clockwise from Côtes-d'Armor in the north is Ille-et-Vilaine in the northeast, Loire-Atlantique in the southeast, Morbihan in the south and Finistère in the west. However, Loire-Atlantique was separated from Brittany in 1941 by the Vichy government.   The area we now call Brittany has changed hands several times over the years. The Celtics, Romans, British, Turks and the French have all laid claim to Brittany at some point in its history. It unified with France in the late 1400s when Anne, Duchess of Brittany, married two successive French monarchs. However, it wasn't until 1532 that the duchy of Brittany was actually incorporated into France.

Every region of Brittany has something to offer visitors. You can find the Sept-Iles or the Seven Islands in Côtes-d'Armor. This bird sanctuary is the largest bird observation site in France. Students of ornithology will enjoy the opportunity to catch a glimpse of species such as the Northern gannet.   Visit Dinan to explore an ancient castle and ramparts. In Guincamp, you can tour the Warenghem Breton whisky distillery, see the famous renaissance style fountain La Plomée or visit the basilica of Notre Dame de Bon Secours. The basilica boasts three towers and its construction began in the 13th century.   On the beautiful Pink Granite coast you will find Perros Guirec. A popular tourist spot, it offers gorgeous beaches, a casino and a thalasso spa centre. St Cast is one of the many seaside resorts in Brittany. Visitors enjoy the view from the hill at the end of the main beach, one of seven, and walking along the jagged cliffs.   Cancale is located on the Emerald Coast in Ille-et-Vilaine. It is well known for its oysters, which were once served to royalty in the 17th and 18th centuries. The town is a popular stop at mealtimes due to its variety and quality of seafood. On a clear day, you can walk to the Pointe du Grohin to take in a view of Mont St Michel.  

In Dol de Bretagne, you will find several examples of medieval architecture. Once the site for Druid rituals, the nearby Le Mont Dol is a popular picnic spot. Fougères offers one of the best preserved chateaux in the county. The town of Redon is sometimes called "little Venice" due to its large number of waterways that criss-cross the city. If you happen to visit in late July, be sure to stay for Les Nocturiales, one of the areas most popular music festivals.   Once famous for its cloth, Vitré is now known for what many consider to be the best collection of medieval architecture and streets in Brittany. The town also offers a museum and the chateau of Madame de Sévigné, who was well known for her tart observations on life at court with Louis XIV.  

As the centre of megalith construction during the Neolithic area, Brittany is home to a number of megalith monuments. The largest are found near Carnac, a seaside resort on the Gulf of Morbihan. The area boasts nearly three thousand menhirs, or large upright standing stones, as well as semicircles, burial places and burial mounds called tumuli.   Also on the Gulf of Morbihan, you can take in the medieval city of Vannes. This was the site of the 19th century summit which incorporated Brittany into France. You should plan to stay several days in order to take in the many attractions in the town. Museums such as the Musée des Beaux Arts and Musée des Automates are popular. Adults and children alike will enjoy the aquarium. The butterfly house, La Papillonneraie, is not to be missed.  

Only a few miles off the southern coast, you will find Belle Ile or Beautiful Island. This is Brittany's largest island. Most visitors are in awe of the island's natural beauty. The inhabitants are well known for their kindness and hospitality.   Lorient is the second largest fishing port in France. Visitors to the city can visit an old submarine base built by the Germans or watch one of the many yacht races hosted by the city. In August, the Festival Interceltique is celebrated. It is popular, drawing nearly five thousands artists and museums, as well as over three hundred thousand festival goers.   During World War II, Brest was an important naval base. Unfortunately, much of the town's older parts were lost when the Germans attacked. However, you can still take in a 15th century castle and stop by La Place Guérin to visit with local artists and poets while you get a bite to eat. A marine theme park called Océanopolis is a newer addition to the town.   Have your camera ready if you visit Concarneau. The medieval walled town is one of the most photographed sites in Brittany. The town is one of the largest fishing ports in France as well as a popular resort. If you stop by the town of Crozon before exploring the peninsula, make time to visit the church. The wooden altarpiece contains twenty-nine panels which date back to the early part of the 17th century.

Lighthouse lovers will enjoy Le Conquet and the nearby Ile d'Ouessant. A number of them dot the coast of the city and the neighboring island, offering a beautiful flashing light display. King Arthur folklore is popular in Quimper. Be sure to take in the cathedral, started in 1239, which features two distinctive spires. The town is also known for its pottery so be sure to visit the H.B. Henriot workshops and the museum behind them, which features pottery from the past three and a half centuries.   Wherever you travel in Brittany, you are sure to find something to see, explore or experience. With so much to see and do, don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to extend your vacation.