Brittany is the land of fables, passing down legends of pixie-like Korrigans scampering among rocks in the heath, giants heaving granite inland and melodic mermaids singing in the waters surrounding its three shores. Even King Arthur and his knights are said to have tread the land, their escapades mirroring Brittany's written history. Situated on the northwestern coast of France, this mystic peninsula's residents speak both French and Breton, an unusual language derived from its Celtic roots.

Saint Malo, the walled city, is frequented by many, as along with the intriguing Fort National is a much-admired sandy beach. Brest is an important port and naval base, and home to Oceanopolis, a large aquarium and museum. The well-preserved medieval town of Dinan offers exploration of 700-year-old ramparts ascending steep hills. An intriguing collection of megaliths (ancient rock structures) is located near Carnac. And capitalizing on Brittany’s long coast are the numerous thalassotherapy centres, where seawater, seaweeds and ocean air therapies invigorate the mind and body.