The Emerald Coast Walk

Location: Brittany, France. Holiday type: Independent walking, hotel-to-hotel. Managed locally by Headwater employed rep. Activity level: 2 boots Duration: 9 days (8 nights) Hotels: A mix of mid range/good value, friendly/quirky. Meals: Continental breakfast and 6 evening meals. Prices from: Please call. Departs: Every two days from 13 May '12 to 20 Sep '12   JFMAMJJASOND

Highlights Brittany's Emerald Coast boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Europe, yet is relatively untouched by tourism. It's a landscape of pink-gold cliffs, deserted poppy-fringed beaches and traditional friendly Breton villages.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive at Lamballe

Your holiday starts at M. Jamin's C16 manor house in the countryside just 3kms outside the market town of Lamballe. With only 15 rooms, it's a lovely intimate place to stay. The inner courtyard opens up on to beautifully kept gardens and elegant terrace for al fresco dining on fine summer evenings.

Day 2 - Lamballe to Sables d'Or-Les-Pins 17km/11mi/5hr

A short transfer to the tiny Breton fishing port of Dahouet. From here, it's coastal walking at its best: extensive views, aquamarine seas, white sandy beaches and rocky coves - don't forget your swimming things! Lunch on the beach at Caroual then inland and on to our lovely hotel at Sables d'Or-Les-Pins.

Day 3 - At Sables d'Or-Les-Pins

Sables d'Or-Les-Pins is a lovely seaside village with magnificent golden sand beaches. It would be easy to just spend the day here, however we strongly recommend following our suggested circular walk (full route notes provided) along the spectacular GR34 around the cliff and on to nearby Cap d'Erquy - a delightful fishing village with some outstanding seafood restaurants for lunch.

Day 4 - Sables d'Or-Les-Pins to Dinard 17km/11mi/5hr

Deserted beaches and heather-topped cliffs provide the colourful artists backdrop for today's walk which leads you via the Cap Frehel lighthouse (look out for nesting seabirds) to the famous C14 feudal stronghold of Fort de la Latte. Perched on a rocky promontory over the ocean, this castle occupies one of the finest sites in Brittany - climb up the tower for magnificent coastal views, out as far as Jersey on a clear day.

Day 5 - At Dinard

Once a sleepy fishing village on the estuary of the Rance, the English transformed the town into one of the most famous and upmarket resorts in Europe. Walk out to the Pointe des Etretes for views of the off-shore islands, or take a 10-minute water taxi across the bay to St Malo and lose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets within the Intra Muros (fortified walls) of the ancient mediaeval city.

Day 6 - Dinard to Dinan 21km/13mi/6hr

Starting from the picturesque Breton village of Langrolay-sur-Rance (lift provided), today's route takes you inland, mostly following the course of the river. It's wonderfully tranquil walking through shady forests, fruit orchards, and along peaceful riverside paths. Our 3-star hotel in Dinan is superbly located within the ramparts of the mediaeval old town and boasts a lovely rooftop garden with great views.

Day 7 - At Dinan

This beautifully preserved ancient walled town, with riverfront port is an absolute gem. Wander round the marvellously restored ancient squares, visit the imposing C13 castle, admire the flamboyant Gothic basilica and stroll the lovely cobbled streets packed with authentic artisan workshops.

Day 8 - Dinan to Plorec/Lamballe 22km/14mi/6hr

A short transfer (provided) then off along the Pays du Tour du Penthievre where shady woodland paths skirt the river as far as the impressive 13C Chateau de la Hunaudaye whose ruins date back over 800 years.

Day 9 - Leave Lamballe