Carried away on a breeze.
***
Once again the Paris forecast is for highs around 35 - 36°C (or more) this coming week. Coastal areas in Brittany, Normandy, and the Charentes (Atlantic coast) are excellent choices to flee to, not that far, and, thanks to sea breezes and the moderating influence of the Atlantic, northern and western coasts typically stay 5 - 10°C+ cooler, especially right by the sea.
Having spent much time in Brittany, here are my top picks for breezy escapes in the region, with most destinations accessible 2 - 4 hour direct or simple-connection high-speed trains (TGV). The beaches, towns, and activities make for relaxed coastal getaways with walks, seafood, and sightseeing. Or simply pack the laptop and get in some scenic teletravail (working remotely) between sea views and moules frites - now in season, especially Brittany’s famous rope-grown bouchot mussels, including those from the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel:
Dinard & Surrounds. Visit Plage de l'Écluse (main beach with iconic huts) and coastal sentier (path) walks
Finistère West Coast (e.g. Brest, Crozon Peninsula, Pointe du Raz)
Saint-Malo and Emerald Coast (Côte d'Émeraude)
Quiberon Peninsula (southern Brittany)
Île de Batz or Ouessant (Ushant)
Erquy or Cap Fréhel
- Stick as close to the coast as possible for maximum breeze benefit
- Keep in mind that trains fill up in summer - check SNCF Connect soon. Consider a 1 - 2 week regional pass if doing multiple stops
- Expect variable weather (possible showers), but milder than inland
- Pack layers, sunscreen, and rain gear
- Head farther west like Brest (Brittany) for even more Atlantic moderation
Enjoy. And maybe, see you there! - BPJ
