Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Bretagne...c'est incroyable!


It has been an amazing and awe-inspiring week traveling with Lauren.  We were lucky to have a speedy wifi connection at our first stop in Rouen and since then have been more out of touch with the world.  It is certainly nice to have a break from the constant buzz but after a bit it does get isolating.  However, there is no better way to expedite a relaxing attitude than a  leisurely walk on the beach or a slow boisson in a seaside cafe.  

Our second stop was in Saint-Malo, a more popular beach resort on the central northern coast of France no far from the famous Mont Saint Michel, our original planned destination.  However, after experiencing the crowds of Rouen, the two of us were craving someplace smaller, less populous, and more relaxing than Michel, the 2nd most visited place in France.  St- Malo was certainly beautiful.  We were greeted by sunny weather but our second day there was a rainy Saturday and it was difficult at times to explore much of the city.  Despite the poor weather we walked all over the little beach town exploring its' many forts and ramparts.  So far our best meals have been there, a town with a renowned fishing company.  We've done a fantastic job taking our time at dinner, our longest seafood feast a three course meal stretching well over three hours and filled with many "mmmms".  Needless to say, the locals have been appreciative of the careful time we have spent enjoying every moment, sip, and taste of this incredible and multifaceted culture. 

Two days ago now we arrived in Quiberon on the western coast of Bretagne.  It is not as touristy here as we arrived during the week and it is more laid back.  Yesterday we visited an island of Quiberon's coastline called literally "the beautiful island in the sea" or La Belle-Isle en mer.  There we happened upon our very own private beach where I found shells and Lauren read her for her program which begins in Paris in three or four days.  Below our some pictures from some of the last few days.  Love you all and please please send me your address if you would like to receive a postcard.  I was bad about getting them before I left!


An accordion player in St-Malo

A local choir
Sunset at St-Malo

Exploring the citadel in Le Palais, Belle Isle en mer
The path through forest and meadow leading back to the village from our private beach getaway on the island.  


A stop along our hike back to the village from our private beach getaway.  
La Belle-Isle.
The island's port.
Quiberon's happy beachy children.
Sunset over Quiberon.

1 comment:

  1. Sounds like you are finding all the good spots. The beach sounds like a great find as well!

    Keep on traveling safe and having fun. Love the pictures.

    ReplyDelete