The Emerald Coast Walk

General information:

This is a 2 boot Independent Walking holiday

The holiday offers varied walking following well marked GR routes along coastal paths, river banks, country lanes and shady forest tracks. Some steep, but short, ascents and descents, but a good head for heights is not necessary. It is mid-difficult range of 2 boot walking, because the distances are long. Following GR routes all the time, the routes are well marked. There are no long steep climbs.

Day 2 and 4 walks are along coastal paths, sometimes walking along the top of cliffs, the paths are very good they are wide. You do not to have a particularly good head for heights.

Day 6 is walking along the banks River Rance, through forest and farmland.

Walking details:

Varied walking following well marked GR routes along coastal paths, river banks, country lanes and shady forest tracks. Some steep, but short, ascents and descents, but a good head for heights is not necessary.

Location:

This holiday starts on the North Coast of Brittany just to the west of St Malo, starting inland at Lamballe and then northwest towards the coast. Exploring the North Coast before heading down the River Rance to medieval Dinan. Then across country through forest and farmland back to Lamballe.

On this holiday you begin by following magnificent coastal paths which hug the northern coast of Brittany. It’s a landscape of pinky-gold cliffs, secret coves, deserted heather-backed beaches, traditional Bréton fishing villages and charming seaside resorts. At every turn you are rewarded with fabulous panoramic views of the entire Emerald Coast.

Highlights include the feudal Fort de la Latte and the beautiful stone-crafted town of Dinan. In the Middle Ages, Dinan served as one of the main strategic strongholds of the Duchy of Brittany and much of her medieval charm remains today.

Heading inland, the route takes you along the banks of the River Rance and through the majestic Hunaudaye Forest to return to your hotel at Lamballe.

Who would this holiday appeal to?

This holiday would best suit couples or families with older children. Routes are quite long and fairly tough, so not suitable for young children.

There is something for everyone on this holiday, beaches, seaside towns - Sables d'Or, Dinard, Val-Andre. Rolling countryside and forest trails, sightseeing and historical interest - chateaux and fort, medieval towns - Dinan & St Malo.

Nature lovers will enjoy the rugged unspoilt coastline, bird watching opportunities from the coastal paths and along the banks of the River Rance.

Similar to which other holidays?

We think this holiday is similar to our holidays in Burgundy, the Dordogne and Catalunya.

Possibility of non-standard departures?

Non-standard departures are not available as this is a repped region, but the holiday runs every other day.

If extra nights are required during the holiday, it is recommended to have 2 nights at a time. This will ensure Headwater reps can transfer luggage on your behalf.

Other details:

Continental breakfast and 6 evening meals are included on this holiday

Car parking is available at the base hotel in Lamballe. This is free of charge.