We are absolutely thrilled to share our special day with you in the stunning region of Brittany, on the edge of Normandy!

Beyond our wedding celebrations, we hope you'll take some time to explore this incredibly diverse and historically rich part of the world. From poignant WWII sites and the breathtaking Mont Saint-Michel, to charming coastal towns and delicious local specialties, these two regions have something for everyone. Fun facts: Caroline's paternal side of the family is of Normandy origin - last name Bélanger. Yann's paternal side of the family is from Brittany!

Here are some of our top recommendations:

Mont-Saint-Michel 

This iconic medieval abbey and village, perched on a tidal island, is truly a sight to behold. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must-see. It's about a 25-min drive from the venue.

• Explore the Abbey: Wander through the streets of the village and enjoy the views of the bay. 

  • Be mindful of the tides!

• Parking: You'll park in a designated area and then take a shuttle or walk across the causeway.

• Tickets & Info:

  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey Official Website: https://www.abbaye-mont-saint-michel.fr/en/

  • Mont Saint-Michel Tourist Office: https://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/en/

Fougères 

Fougères is home to Europe's largest medieval fortress! It is also one of Europe's most magnificent and well-preserved medieval castles. It's about a 20-min drive from the venue.

• Château de Fougères: Explore the impressive ramparts, towers, and courtyards of this fortress. 

• Old Town: Wander through the medieval streets below the castle, with timbered houses and historic churches.

• Jardin Public: Enjoy lovely views of the castle from the public gardens.

• Tickets & Info: https://www.fougeres-tourisme.com/en/ 

Saint-Malo

This historic city in Brittany is famous for its dramatic ramparts, charming old town ("Intra-Muros"), and pirate history. It's about a 45-min drive from the venue.

• Walk the Ramparts: Enjoy incredible panoramic views of the city and the sea.

• Explore Intra-Muros: Wander the cobbled streets, enjoy crêpes, and soak in the unique atmosphere.

• Beaches & Tidal Walks: Enjoy the expansive sands, and at low tide, walk out to Grand Bé island. 

• Saint-Malo Tourist Office: https://www.saint-malo-tourisme.com/en/

Dinan

Perched above the Rance River, Dinan is one of Brittany's most captivating medieval towns, boasting a remarkably preserved old town. It's about a 1 hour drive from the venue. 

• Explore the Ramparts: Walk along the town walls for stunning views of the river and countryside.

• Vieux Port (Old Port): Stroll along the picturesque port, lined with charming restaurants and cafes.

• Rue du Jerzual: Discover the steep, cobbled street, filled with artisan shops.

• Dinan Tourist Office: https://www.dinan-capfrehel.com/en/

The D-Day Landing Beaches & Memorial Sites

Normandy played a pivotal role in World War II, and visiting the D-Day sites is a deeply moving and educational experience. Bring tissues! The beaches are about a 1 hour 40 min drive from the venue. 

• Omaha Beach: Known for the heaviest Allied casualties.

  • Free entry: https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/europe/normandy-american-cemetery

• Utah Beach: The westernmost landing beach, now home to a museum.

  • Utah Beach D-Day Museum: https://www.utahbeach.org/en/ 

• Arromanches-les-Bains: See the remains of the artificial Mulberry Harbour, a marvel of wartime engineering.

  • Arromanches 360 Cinema: https://www.arromanches360.com/en/ (tickets available online or at the door)

• Mémorial de Caen: A comprehensive museum covering WWII, the D-Day landings, and the Cold War.

  • Mémorial de Caen: https://www.memorial-caen.fr/en (book tickets online)

Bayeux

A beautiful medieval town miraculously spared from WWII destruction. It's about a 1 hour 30 min drive from the venue. (Fun fact: Yann has family who live in Bayeux!)

• Bayeux Tapestry Museum: 70-meter-long embroidered tapestry telling the story of the 1066 Norman Conquest.

  • Bayeux Tapestry Museum: https://www.bayeuxmuseum.com/en/the-bayeux-tapestry/ (book tickets online)

• Bayeux Cathedral: A stunning example of Norman-Gothic architecture. Worth a visit!

• Explore the Town: Wander the cobbled streets, enjoy the riverside, and browse the local shops.

Local Cuisine

Don't leave the western part of France without sampling some of its famous culinary specialties!

• Crêpes and Galettes: Enjoy sweet crêpes or savory galettes (made with buckwheat flour).

• Cider: We're in the apple region! Enjoy local cider ("cidre"), from dry to sweet. 

• Calvados: The famous apple brandy. 

• "Trou Normand": A shot of Calvados in the middle of a meal to aid digestion! 

• Cheeses: Sample delicious cheeses like Camembert, Livarot, and Pont-l'Évêque.

• Seafood: Being a coastal region, fresh seafood, especially mussels ("moules") and oysters, is a must-try.