The Region Brittany is an area of breathtaking natural beauty. The long coastline is a seemingly endless succession of rocky headlands, wild cliffs, island studded bays and beautiful sandy beaches. Inland is equally attractive. Fairytale castles, historic towns and ancient megaliths are sprinkled through the gentle hilly countryside. A wide variety of interests are well catered for, including golf, fishing, all sorts of watersports, hiking and cycling. Dinan (www.dinan-tourisme.com) is perhaps the place where Medieval Brittany seems most alive and most real. Behind the ramparts the old centre of town vibrates with life. The sagging, cantilevered timber fronted dwellings leaning crazily on each other, still house merchants, though their trades may have changed. Rue Du Jerzual and Rue Du Petit Fort lead through one of the ancient town gates down to the Port, winding between two perfect rows of restored and protected artisans' houses. On the Port you can sit and watch the world go by from one of the riverside cafes and restaurants, take a boat trip to the old citadel port of St. Malo or hire a self drive boat and explore the delightful river Rance. The more energetic may prefer to walk or cycle up or down the towpath. Ten minutes upstream is the picturesque village of Lehon with its own castle, twelfth century abbey and open air heated swimming pool complex. Dinan St Malo St Malo is a jewel of a town which has risen again after being all but destroyed during the last war. The old town is surrounded by ramparts which offer stunning views out over the sea and gives access to several delightful sandy beaches. Dinard is one of the oldest tourist resorts in France. It offers elegant architecture, fine restaurants, a beautiful long sandy beach and a casino. Cote D'Emeraude. This rugged stretch of coastline runs west from St Malo to Cap Frehel. There are beautiful heather covered headlands and stunning beaches. In a romantic setting on a windswept peninsula overlooking the sea stands the medieval castle, Fort La Latte. Cote D’Emeraude Fort La Latte Jugon Les Lacs (www.jugon-les-lacs.com) is a pretty village only a couple of miles away from our house at Megrit, or about 20 minutes drive from Dinan. It stands at the end of a lake where windsurfers, sailing boats, canoes and pedaloes can be hired and tuition is available at the Ecole De Voile. Moncontour is a perfect medieval village perched high above rolling Breton countryside. La Hunaudaye is a beautiful moated castle partly ruined but retaining its medieval grandeur. Close by is the Ferme D'Antan (www.ferme-dantan22.com) a reconstructed Breton farm offering a fascinating glimpse back in time and a chance to experience authentic Breton farm life. Mont St Michel is a renowned world heritage site standing proudly on a rocky island which is cut off from the mainland by the fast flowing tides. The church and monastery are truly unique and repay a visit early in the day to avoid the crowds. Mont St Michel Fougeres, once the mightiest of the Breton fortresses, boasts a magnificent stronghold with thirteen towers and a charming old town. Vitre castle, built in the 11th and 14th centuries, is a masterpiece of military architecture, all pointed roofs and pinnacles. In the town of Vitre well preserved alleyways of old houses complete the air of medieval charm. Combourg is another idyllic little town dominated by a great medieval castle. Dol de Bretagne has a well preserved Old Quarter and an impressive Gothic cathedral.