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Ever wished you could skip the airport hassle and wake up in France? While everyone else queues at security, smart travelers are already sipping coffee in charming French cafés thanks to Brittany Ferries routes that unlock Brittany’s hidden treasures.
The Plymouth to Roscoff Route: Your Gateway to Brittany’s Heart
The overnight sailing from Plymouth drops you right into Roscoff’s storybook harbor. This isn’t just any port town – pink granite buildings line cobblestone streets where locals shop for fresh croissants and artisanal cheeses at the morning market. Take a morning stroll along the coast to spot the unique “onion johnnies” bicycles displayed outside traditional houses, celebrating the town’s quirky trading history with Britain.
From Roscoff, take the coastal D58 road toward Perros-Guirec for breathtaking views of the Pink Granite Coast. Stop at the tiny village of Ploumanac’h, where rose-tinted rocks form natural sculptures against the turquoise sea. This lesser-known route reveals hidden coves and secret beaches perfect for impromptu picnics.
The Scenic Route: Roscoff to Morlaix
Follow the winding country roads through ancient farming villages to reach Morlaix, famous for its towering railway viaduct. The real secret here is the view from Saint-Mathieu Chapel – hardly any tourists know about this spot that offers panoramic views of the bay and the town’s distinctive architecture. Don’t miss the hidden pathway behind the chapel that leads to an ancient well – locals say it was once used by pilgrims seeking healing waters.
Portsmouth to Saint-Malo: Time Travel to Medieval France
Saint-Malo’s massive granite ramparts rise from the sea like something from a fantasy novel. The overnight crossing means you’ll arrive as the morning sun gilds the ancient walls. Within minutes, you’re wandering streets where privateers once roamed, now lined with boutiques selling local butter cookies and salted caramel.
Take the lesser-known coastal path from Saint-Malo to Cancale – locals call it “Le Chemin des Douaniers” (The Customs Officers’ Path). This 14km trail hugs the coastline, revealing hidden bays and offering spectacular views across to Mont Saint-Michel. Stop at Port-Mer, a tiny fishing harbor where you can buy fresh oysters directly from the farmers.
The Secret Inland Route: Saint-Malo to Dinan
Instead of taking the main road, follow the River Rance south through villages like Le Minihic-sur-Rance and Pleudihen-sur-Rance. These riverside communities offer authentic Breton life away from tourist crowds. The route reveals medieval manors hidden in woodland and ancient water mills still turning in the river.
Poole to Cherbourg: The Quick Hop to Norman Treasures
This speedy daytime crossing gets you to France in just 4.5 hours. From Cherbourg, take the D901 coastal road toward the Cap de la Hague. This dramatic peninsula offers views across to Alderney and hidden World War II bunkers converted into artists’ studios. Stop at Goury Lighthouse for one of Normandy’s most spectacular sunset views.
Hidden Gems Along the Routes
The beauty of ferry travel is the freedom to explore. Take the back roads to discover places like Dinan, where half-timbered houses lean over narrow streets so picturesque you’ll think you’ve stepped into a painting. Follow the River Rance to find ancient fishing villages like Saint-Suliac, officially one of France’s most beautiful villages yet rarely visited by tourists.
Don’t miss Locronan, a preserved medieval town where even the electrical cables are buried to maintain authenticity. Take the high road above town for a secret viewpoint of the entire Bay of Douarnenez.
Local Secrets for Better Views
Timing is everything in Brittany. Visit the Mont Saint-Michel via the little-known route through Roz-sur-Couesnon during spring tides for the most dramatic views. Or time your visit to Saint-Malo’s Petit Bé fort for low tide, when you can walk across the beach to explore this marine fortress.
Making the Most of Your Weekend
Friday night: Board your ferry in the UK Saturday morning: Arrive refreshed in France, and explore your port of arrival Saturday afternoon: Follow the coastal routes, stopping at hidden viewpoints Saturday evening: Find a local bistro in a village off the tourist track Sunday morning: Early start to explore inland routes and secret spots Sunday afternoon: Last-minute exploring and photo opportunities Sunday evening: Reluctantly head home, a camera full of unique views
The Smart Traveler’s Secret
Unlike rigid flight schedules, ferry travel lets you bring your car, pack as much as you like, and explore at your own pace. No rental cars, no baggage restrictions, and no rushing through airports. Just roll off the ferry and straight into your French adventure.
The Photographer’s Paradise
Bring your camera – these routes offer countless opportunities for unique shots. The early morning mist over the Rance Valley, the sunset at Pointe du Grouin, the reflection of Mont Saint-Michel in the flooded plains during high tide – these are the photos that won’t be on everyone else’s Instagram.
Professional photographers often camp out at Pointe de Pen-Hir during storm season, when massive waves crash against the cliffs in spectacular displays of natural power. In spring, the coastal paths around Cap Fréhel burst with pink heather and yellow gorse, creating natural frames for lighthouse photos. Dawn at the fishing port of Le Conquet offers chances to capture traditional wooden boats against a backdrop of colorful houses, while the megalithic alignments at Carnac create mysterious silhouettes at sunset.
Why Your Next Weekend Should Start on a Ferry
These ferry routes aren’t just convenient ways to reach France – they’re gateways to a different kind of travel experience. While tourists crowd the main attractions, you’ll be discovering hidden coves along the Pink Granite Coast, chatting with local fishermen in tiny ports, and finding your secret spots to watch the sunset over the Atlantic.
And here’s the best part – your car is already packed with everything you need, with no baggage restrictions to worry about. You can fill your trunk with local cider, artisanal cheeses, and those perfect ceramics you found in that little potter’s workshop. Because when you travel by ferry, your adventure runs on your schedule, not someone else’s timetable.
I’ve always been captivated by Brittany’s unique charm, and I started this site to share my favourite spots and tips with fellow travellers. From exploring hidden beaches to experiencing local culture, I aim to provide practical advice and fresh perspectives on everything this destination has to offer.
