Idea weekend to the green: succumb to the charm of Dinan-Cap Fréhel!

Want a nature weekend that mixes discovery, escape and slow activities in an eco-friendly spirit? Discover the unexpected treasures of Dinan-Cap Fréhel without further delay.

Are you looking for a green weekend idea? To conjugate farniente on the beach, nature outings and sports activities, Dinan-Cap Fréhel is a destination of choice. Treasure of the Côte d’Émeraude, it has this character so special to the Brittany and offers a wide range of activities to practice in couples, friends or family, regardless of the season.

But that’s not all: very aware of environmental and social issues, the destination is actively engaged in sustainable tourism. In this article, we devour the many assets of Dinan-Cap Fréhel!

1. A territory committed to the environment

A preserved natural setting

With its preserved and wild landscapes, Dinan-Cap Fréhel is an ideal destination for a natural weekend. In Cape Fréhel, admire the colors of the flowers that tap the moor and take the time to observe the fauna that dwells on the coast. Maybe you'll come across some of the marine birds like the Hupped Cormoran or the Troil Guillemot. At sea, the lucky ones can even meet some porpoises!

Cape Fréhel belongs to the network of the Grand Sites of France and to the network of Natura 2000. The objective of these labels is to manage and develop exceptional natural sites. Maintaining biodiversity and developing biodiversity sustainable tourism are key issues, which also depend on your actions! Thus, in nature, adopt respectful behavior:

• Throw your waste into the trash;
• Read the panels and respect the layouts;
• Do not approach animals and do not try to get in touch with them;
• Don't pick and avoid trapping the flora.

Sustainable and responsible tourism

Aware of environmental issues, the Territory is committed to sustainable tourism. The tourist office Dinan-Cap Fréhel is part of the network of Actors of Sustainable Tourism, which promotes more responsible practices.

How is this commitment translated concretely? Here are the actions undertaken by the territory:

• Staff awareness of sustainable development;
• Sensitization of visitors to the preservation of environmental quality;
• Support for sustainable development projects;
• Valorization of short circuits;
• Development of slow-tourism and soft mobility solutions;
• Valorization of activities in full nature.

2. Roaming circuits in eco-friendly nature

Walking mode

Want to discover the treasures of Dinan-Cap Fréhel destination gently? It falls well, the area houses very nice trails, which you can walk in less than 2 hours. Here are some ideas:

• Conjugate historical discovery and fresh parenthesis on the banks of the Rance by walking from Dinan Castle to the abbey of Lehon;
• Discover one of the most beautiful beaches of Brittany in Sable-d’Or-les-Pins;
• If you are looking for a more intimate getaway, go to the charming village of Saint-Germain to admire the ruins of the Moulin de la Mer.

Many other suggestions for walks are offered on the website of Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourism .

Hiking mode

The great hikers will also find their happiness during a nature weekend in Cape Fréhel. The famous Customs Trail (GR34) crosses the territory, offering stunning views of the sea, beaches, dunes and moors. And if you are looking for more intimate and bucolic landscapes, go to the Rance valley, protected natural site surrounded by villages with unique charm.

Bike mode

Want to go on the bicycle paths? Both V2 and V3 bike paths follow the old railway track, redesigned in the green track, to reach the road. They then separate, one taking the direction of Rennes the other towards Morbihan, passing through the commune of Quiou. The territory is also irrigated by the Vélomaritime. Passing through Cape Fréhel and Fort-la-Latte, it allows you to discover the coastline in all its diversity.

3. The Rance Valley, a picturesque treasure to bubble in all serenity

Zoom on the Rance and its valley

The Rance takes its source in Le Mené, in the Côtes d’Armor . It is a fast and winding river, which then widens into a languid canal, passing through the medieval city of Dinan to the exceptional historical heritage. Before throwing into the Channel, the Rance forms an estuary subject to the tides, which houses a unique biodiversity.

The Rance valley offers beautiful natural landscapes, which stand out from the coast thanks to their calm and privacy. But how can we enjoy it in an eco-friendly way?

Some slow activity ideas on the edge of the Rance

To enjoy your nature weekend, here are some activities to discover the Rance valley:

• Take a bike on the tow path;
• Stop by the river for a bucolic picnic between friends or family;
• Have a drink on the terraces of the port of Dinan;
• Visit the Rance House, a space dedicated to the biodiversity of the valley;
• Use a nature guide to discover local fauna and flora.

And to sail on the water:

• Rent a paddle or kayak;
• Take an electric boat on the port of Dinan and discover the Rance in autonomy;
• Embark on a commented cruise.

4. The Emerald Coast, beautiful coastline with lush nature

Cap on the Côte d’Émeraude!

Dinan-Cap Fréhel is located on the Côte d’Émeraude, nicknamed because of the color of its water. The destination offers a wide variety of landscapes: wild dunes, steep rocks, fine sand beaches and lively seaside resorts.

Looking for a family destination? Go to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo. You can stroll on the harbour, admire villas and enjoy oysters by the water... All around you will find large sandy beaches as well as small secret coves. They are designed for tourism, without sacrificing anything to the beauty of the landscapes.

Nearby, the huge beach of Sable-d’Or-les-Pins also attracts visitors. Its wild nature and the many activities it houses are all assets for a weekend to green. The identity of the resort is also based on its characteristic architecture of the Belle Époque. A real jewel!

Some slow activity ideas on the edge of the Channel

How can you enjoy your stay on the Côte d’Émeraude? Here are some ideas of eco-friendly activities to practice with family, friends, couple or even solo:

• Bull on the beach: swimming, nap, sand castle... You understood the idea!
• Ride in a walking or biking hike along the coastline;
• Bring her twins to observe marine birds;
• Rent a paddle, kite-surf or a sail tank to explore the bay with the sole force of the wind;
• Have a day on a sailboat;
• Pass the doors of local shops and restaurants.

5. A wide variety of local producers and artisans

To taste authentic Breton cider

Ciderries are a must-have for your stay To savor a pot of cider – or a delicious local apple juice for children – go to the Beausoleil farm in Matignon, Prié cider shop or to the Farm of Landes cider shop.

To discover the cakes and lace pancakes

Don't miss these Breton specialties during your stay! In the business, turn to Les Gavottes, delicious lace pancakes made in Dinan. And if you are more galette than crêpe, go to the markets: you will find food-trucks offering for sale not only crêpes but also delicious cakes cooked on site...

To eat the best products of the sea

The hip clutches give you culinary desires? Many oysters offer oysters from Arguenon Bay and Fresnaye Bay: a delight! Also to be discovered: the fish rillettes and the algae tartars of the artisanal cannerie Les Poissons de Marion. And to taste scallops and smoked fish, go to the Fumoir de Saint-Cast. You will even discover some secrets of craftsmanship...

To be tempted by a piece of chocolate or toffee with salty butter

Chocolate? Salted butter caramel bite? Discover the sweets of the Maison Bazille: macarons, icy pastries and other chocolate delights... You must find your happiness! Otherwise, Breton craftsman Johann Dubois honours chocolate in all its forms. An ideal address for the most gourmet of you.

To buy seasonal fruit and vegetables

Want to give you a good ride? Discover the local producers of Brittany via organic certified vegetables and seasonal fruit. The addresses are not missing: Les Vergers de la Baie, Les Jardins de l’Aubenière, Les fruits des bois au Quiou... What local shopper even on vacation!

Learn more about the destination Dinan-Cap Fréhel .