Things to Do

Dinan, specially protected as a noted town of artistic and historical importance, is a delight to explore. Its stone walls now enclose a uniquely preserved 11th century town with 2,800 metres of ramparts and 12 towers. There is an interesting museum in the main tower of the ramparts. The two principal churches are Saint Malo Cathedral and St Sauveur Basilica. The centre of Dinan is filled with over 50 lively bars, cafés and restaurants. Specialities include a bewildering choice of galettes and crêpes, delicious seafood and of course, cider. Thursday is market day in the main square where a dazzling array of fresh Breton fare can be found. Explore the narrow streets and cobbled alleys, crammed with Medieval timbered houses, many now housing quaint gift, antique and craft shops.

Dinan boasts a vibrant theatre, Le Théâtre des Jacobins, a cinema, and 2 swimming pools (note to boys/men: Speedo type swim trunks are required; no baggy shorts allowed!) Street festivals include the famous, medieval Fête des Remparts, which takes place every second year. There are music and cultural festivals throughout the year. Check our link to the Dinan Tourist Office for details. Dinan's art deco railway station has its own railway museum. Climb the 158 steps of the Tour de L'Horloge (the record is 3 minutes 47 seconds) for a breathtaking, panoramic view.

From the jardín anglais (the English garden) which is incidentally just behind our house, you can over look the port, including a beautiful viaduct constructed around 1850. The port is reached via the steep, cobbled rue Jerzual, which is lined with cafés and shops, and boasts some of Dinan’s most notable houses, including Renaissance manors, town houses built by East India Company officers, and villas used by the British in Victorian times.

In the port area, it is possible to hire boats and kayaks. Or, cross the river and walk the pleasant tow-path to the pretty village of Lehon with its abbey, castle and heated open air swimming pool.

Dinan is an ideal base for travelling around Northern Brittany and Normandy. Several safe, clean beaches are within half an hour of you. Cancale, Mont St Michel, Combourg, Jugon- les-Lacs, and Rennes are easy drives. Local activities include tennis, sailing, wind surfing, golf and fishing.