Brittany was made for intrepid travellers. Its attractions are obvious – warm white-sand beaches, towering cliffs and dense forests make a camping excursion here well worth the detour off the beaten track. This is also a region of proud traditions, with some Bretons continuing to regard France as a separate country. Few locals, however, actively support Breton nationalism much beyond displaying Breizh (Brittany) stickers on the boot of their car. Huddled on a peninsula, surrounded by a strip of clear blue sea and the surf-friendly Lesconil beach, Yelloh Village L’ Ocean Breton (formerly Manoir de Kerlut), is the perfect base to explore this remarkable region, with a torrent of onsite facilities to boot.
For the traditional tenters amongst us there are 60 spacious pitches up for grabs, amongst clearly defined vegetation for your privacy. From 2014, camping folk can select their own pitch, so if prefer to sleep in a secluded spot or close to all the action, just ask for the ‘preferential camping pitch package’ when booking. On the subject of action, there’s plenty going on here. The sight of a large swimming pool complex may set alarm bells ringing for some, but little ones (who are in their element) can tire themselves out on the water-slide and lagoon, whilst parents kick back with a regional cocktail in the bright Breton sunshine.
For most visitors, Breton’s wild and dramatic coastline is the first port of call. However, the entire region has a remarkably undiscovered feel once you go beyond the fabulous yet tourist-trodden sights of St-Malo, Dinan and Dinard. Hidden Breton jewels – including the unmissable cobbled towns of Quimper and Vannes – both demonstrate there's far more to Brittany than homemade cider and tasty crêpes. Brittany's much-loved islands are also 'must do's'. Be sure not to leave without taking a trip to either Belle Île or Île d'Ouessant, France’s most westerly point.
In Brittany there’s so much more competition that campsites have to impress. Given the endless list of facilities here and magnificent location, the camping powers that be awarded L’ Ocean Breton their much-converted five star seal of approval. Impressive credentials indeed. The majority of staff here speaks fluent English and are endlessly enthusiastic about their guests: welcoming them into the campsite like family. If you really want less crowds (especially in the summer) you can go to another site, but we can’t guarentee such a friendly welcome.
Housed in an ancient medieval tower, Musée Bigouden (0033 298 660 040) in Pont-l'Abbé once belonged to the château of the Barons. The museum has four exhibition rooms, which guide visitors through maritime and rural life of the area. Crafts, furniture, and richly embroidered clothing from yesteryear are also on display. Pont-l'Abbé itself offers a wonderful range of over 250 businesses, which include antique shops and bric-à-brac shops, where you can rummage for a hidden treasure. The Penmarc’h (0033 607 213 734) is home to three lighthouses, including the 60-metre high Eckmühl. Climb the 307 steps and take in the fabulous sweeping views from one of the most popular monuments in Finistère.
The site's restaurant has updated its menu to offer you fresh, simple and local produce, including the ‘fish of the day’. Campers can also enjoy a take-away service, with pizzas, chips and burgers. The bar has concerts and cocktails, or you can try one of Brittany’s regional drinks on the terrace. Offsite, there are lots of excellent restaurants to discover, with many offering tasty seafood. L'Ambroisie (0033 298 950 002) is Quimper's most acclaimed restaurant, decorated with contemporary art and elegant china. Regional produce is used to create Breton's favourite scallops. Cooking classes are also available.
