The Emerald Coast, a natural gem in northern Brittany, invites you on a unique escape between turquoise seas, majestic cliffs, and charming villages. Dinard, an iconic seaside resort, offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and leisure, where sailing and hiking rub shoulders with a rich architectural heritage. In 2025, this region will appeal to families as well as art and gastronomy enthusiasts, thanks to its sublime beaches, diverse water sports, and colorful markets.
Along the coastal paths, seaside bike paths, or hidden coves, every moment becomes an invitation to well-being and discovery. Visitors can immerse themselves in the gentle Breton way of life while exploring Belle Époque villas, small fishing villages, and museums dedicated to contemporary art. Children will also enjoy fun activities like geocaching or shellfish gathering during the high tides. This ten-part itinerary offers a chance to explore the Emerald Coast by bike, sample local flavors at the markets, admire natural spectacles, try sailing or kayaking, and make the most of every moment thanks to great places designed for the whole family. The diverse landscapes and the wealth of activities inevitably foster fond memories, combining relaxation and thrills.
Explore the Emerald Coast by bike: a family adventure between Saint-Lunaire and Saint-Briac-sur-Mer
Cycling along the Emerald Coast is a memorable experience, perfect for families looking to combine physical activity, cultural discovery, and gourmet delights. The route starts in Saint-Lunaire, a charming seaside resort renowned since 2019 for its remarkable biodiversity. The whole family can escape on flat, safe trails, where young and old alike can enjoy the beaches, picturesque villages, and breathtaking panoramas.
Day 1: Discovering Saint-Lunaire and its beaches by bike 🚴♂️🌊
The first loop is approximately 11.2 km long, easy, perfect for children and those new to cycling. From Dinard, where many rental companies like Breiz Cycles® offer all the necessary equipment, you can quickly reach Saint-Lunaire. The route passes through pretty streets lined with Art Deco buildings, reminders of a time when the resort already attracted high society. After this cultural appetizer, the road leads to Pointe du Décollé. The 180° panorama offers an unforgettable spectacle: the corsair city of Saint-Malo stands out to the east, while the pink cliffs of Cap Fréhel dominate the horizon to the west. Here, everyone can grasp the natural grandeur of the Emerald Coast.
Gear up for a nature break near the Vallée de l’Amitié, a true haven of peace steeped in history, dominated by an old Romanesque church. The route continues to Grande Plage or Longchamp Beach, perfect for a swim or a surf session suitable for beginners – schools like Surf Harmony or Emeraude Surf School await you there year-round. The day is a perfect end to the Camping de Longchamp, a stone’s throw from the beach, with its varied accommodations and heated indoor water park, a real plus for young and old. For a meal, head to Le Théâtre restaurant. offers a burger that’s a hit, with the perfect beach option for enjoying the sea spray in complete simplicity. 🚲 Bike rental: Breiz Cycles® in Dinard
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping de Longchamp in Saint-Lunaire
🍔 Restaurant: Le Théâtre (gourmet burgers) 🌊 Activity: Beach discovery and surfing initiation Stage Distance (km) Points of interest
Dinard – Saint-Lunaire 4Bike rental, Art Déco Saint-Lunaire – Pointe du Décollé 5
- Panorama of Saint-Malo, Cap Fréhel
- Saint-Lunaire – Beaches
- 2,2
- Swimming, Surfing, Friendship Valley
| Day 2: Wonder in Saint-Briac-sur-Mer and its surroundings 🚴♀️🌿 | The next day, the loop extends to Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, a small village nestled between land and sea, a former fishing village that has become a tourist and artistic haven. The cycle route starts directly from the campsite for a short 2 km crossing to this village. | At the entrance, the Calvary of the Sailors’ Sanctuary testifies to Saint-Briac’s deep connection with the sea. The promenade then reaches La Garde Guérin, a breathtaking point listed for its natural and historical heritage. This site offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Dinard and the Emerald Coast extending to Cap Fréhel. |
|---|---|---|
| Children love exploring the dunes, climbing on the rocks, and chasing seagulls in these wild spaces. Lunch breaks, often at the Crêperie l’Hermine, are enjoyed in a walled garden, perfect for families. Before hitting the road again, enjoy a local treat, Briacin, a chocolate specialty that is a must-try at La Briacine. | This second day offers a balanced blend of nature, history, gentle hiking, and gourmet pleasures that perfectly illustrate the spirit of the Emerald Coast. 🌳 Natural discovery: Garde Guérin and its cliffs | 🦆 Observation: local wildlife and biodiversity |
| 🍴 Lunch: Crêperie l’Hermine, family atmosphere | 🍫 Gourmet Treats: Briacin to La Briacine | Stage |
| Distance (km) | Characteristics | Saint-Lunaire – Saint-Briac-sur-Mer |
2
Historic and Artistic Village
Saint-Briac-sur-Mer – Garde Guérin
4 Listed Point, Panoramic and NaturalReturn to Campsite 4Gourmet and Relaxing Break Discover Dinard, a charming seaside resort on the Emerald Coast, famous for its fine sandy beaches, Belle Époque villas, and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy seaside walks and water sports in an exceptional natural setting.Introduce the family to shellfish gathering and admire the spring tides in Lancieux
The arrival of spring tides, particularly visible in the fall, transforms the beaches of the Emerald Coast into a true natural playground. Lancieux is an ideal place to introduce young and old to shellfish gathering, a fun and rewarding activity. Put on your boots, grab a bucket, a flat-bladed knife, a small rake, and a landing net, and set out to discover the treasures hidden along the coast.
- You can observe, collect, and enjoy seafood while respecting local biodiversity. Be sure to follow regulations to protect these fragile ecosystems. If the catch is scarce, don’t worry: local fishmongers and wholesalers always offer fresh and delicious products, perfect for a sea-based and invigorating meal. 🦀 Equipment needed: boots, bucket, landing net, rake
- 🌊 Activity: Fun discovery of marine life at low tide
- 🌿 Respect: Follow best practices to preserve the environment
- 🍽️ Tasteful pleasure: Local fishmongers and wholesalers
| Activity | Location | Practical advice |
|---|---|---|
| Shore fishing | Lancieux beaches | Boots recommended, suitable equipment, tide times |
| Tasting | Local fishmongers | Fresh, seasonal produce, cooking tips |
| Discover Dinard, a charming seaside resort on Brittany’s Emerald Coast. Enjoy its fine sandy beaches, Belle Époque villas, and coastal paths offering breathtaking sea views. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this destination combining nature and heritage. | Discover the legend of the Korrigans and have fun with geocaching in Lancieux | To extend the magic of the beaches and delight the whole family, geocaching is a modern and captivating activity. This high-tech treasure hunt takes you to meet the Korrigans, these legendary Breton elves, following marked trails and riddles to solve using a mobile app. |

🎯 Objective: Find the Korrigans’ treasure
🌄 Route: Varied landscapes, local heritage
👨👩👧👦 Accessible: Suitable for families and beginners
- Parameters
- Description
- Duration
- Approximately 2 hours
| Difficulty | Easy | Geographic area |
|---|---|---|
| Lancieux shoreline and village | Equipment | Smartphone with app |
| https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lB6dcJyY48 | Coastal walks and the charm of Belle Époque villas in Dinard | Dinard, a seaside resort of unparalleled charm, offers breathtaking walks between cliffs sculpted by the sea and exceptional gardens. The 7.5 km long customs officers’ trail is a must-see for hikers and nature and history lovers. This path runs along the seafront and reveals an exceptional panorama, ideal for long walks with family or alone. |

Also not to be missed is Port Breton Park, located near Prieuré Beach, where flower-filled mansions and exotic animals offer a relaxing and entertaining break. In the evening, the Promenade du Clair de Lune, with its rare species such as cedars and eucalyptus, invites you to stroll to the soothing rhythm of the surf. 🌿 Customs Officers’ Trail: 7.5 km nature walk
🏰 Architectural Discovery: Belle Époque Villas
🎲 Children’s Game Booklets
- 🌸 Port Breton Park: Gardens and Animals
- Attraction
- Description
- Not to be missed
| Coastal Trail | 7.5 km on the cliffs facing the sea |
|---|---|
| Viewpoints, photos | Belle Époque Villas |
| Rich and varied architecture | Guided tour, children’s booklet |
| Port Breton Park | Manor, gardens, menagerie |
| Family activity | Discover Dinard, a charming seaside resort on the Emerald Coast, famous for its fine sandy beaches, Belle Époque villas, and artistic atmosphere. Explore the breathtaking seascapes and enjoy the water sports and cultural activities offered by this must-see destination in Brittany. Delight in Breton flavors at Dinard Market |
For families, tasting the galette-saucisse (sausage galette) on site or to go is an authentic and much-loved experience. Nearby restaurants, such as Merci Monsieur, also offer a delicious Sunday brunch, perfect for extending this gourmet experience in a cozy setting. 🛍️ Market: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
🦪 Local products: seafood, vegetables
🥞 Specialty: sausage galette
🍳 Brunch: Merci Monsieur
- Day
- Hours
- Featured Products
- Tuesday
| 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Seafood, galettes | Thursday |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Seasonal vegetables, oysters | Saturday |
| 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Cheese, local specialties | Enjoy the hidden beaches and coves of the Emerald Coast |
| The beaches of Dinard and its surrounding area are a delight for young castle builders, sand artists, and budding acrobats. Among these gems, the Écluse beach stands out with its dynamic seawall and pleasant surroundings. It’s an ideal place to relax while enjoying access to various amenities. For those seeking more tranquility, the beaches of Port Blanc or Prieuré offer a wild and authentic dimension, away from the crowds. The proximity of restaurants like Cartagène, where you can dine with your toes in the sand, completes the experience in a gourmet and relaxed way. | 🏖️ Écluse Beach: seawall, entertainment | 🌾 Port Blanc Beach: wild and tranquil |

🎨 Family activities: castles, fishing
Beach
Type Strengths Écluse
- Family
- Lively lively seawall, accessible
- Port Blanc
- Wild
| Peace, unspoiled nature | Prieuré | Intimate charm |
|---|---|---|
| Close to the Cartagène restaurant | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jedr30ioxs0 | Experience a magical sunset at Pointe de la Malouine |
| Watching the sun set over the horizon is a moment in time, especially in autumn when the sky transforms into a thousand shades of orange and pink. Pointe de la Malouine, Dinard’s iconic promontory, offers a unique view to savor this moment in complete serenity. | This elegant interlude often ends the day before warming up with a crêpe at La Petite Longère, where the fireplace and sweet treats create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A moment of well-being and sharing for young and old alike. 🌅 Location: Pointe de la Malouine, Dinard | 🎨 Natural spectacle: warm sky |
| 🍰 Relaxation: Petite Longère crêperie | 🔥 Atmosphere: fireplace and sweet treats | Time |
Activity
Tips
Late afternoon Sunset watchingArrive 30 minutes early to enjoy
- Evening
- Petite Longère crêperie
- Reservations if possible, fireplace corner
- Understand and visit the Rance dam tidal power plant
| Unique of its kind, the Rance dam is a feat of French engineering. It connects Dinard to Saint-Malo and harnesses tidal energy to produce 100% renewable electricity. This construction, from its launch in the 1960s, marked a major milestone in the history of green energy. The guided tour of the plant, accessible by reservation, opens the doors to a fascinating world where visitors can observe the engine room and the life-size turbine. The whole family will discover the importance of this technology for regional energy needs, particularly with its production equivalent to the consumption of the Rennes metropolitan area. | An outdoor tour also allows visitors to admire the estuary landscape and watch the boats maneuvering through the lock. This educational and spectacular experience will delight both the curious and history and nature enthusiasts. | ⚙️ Site: Rance Dam, La Richardais |
|---|---|---|
| 🕰️ Guided tour: Tuesday to Friday, reservation required | 🌍 Production: Renewable tidal energy | 🍴 Nearby: Bistrot sur le Quai |
| Appearance | Details | Location |
| La Richardais, between Dinard and Saint-Malo | Energy produced | 100% renewable, tidal |
Guided, free, reservation required
Restaurants nearby
Bistrot sur le Quai (open October) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIhKXKnPD7sKayaking on the Rance for a nature immersion
- Kayaking is a perfect activity for exploring the calm banks of the Rance, especially in autumn when the sea can be rougher. This gentle ride allows you to admire Dinard from a unique perspective, from the water, discovering its coves and luxurious villas that line the shore. For safety reasons, those who are more hesitant may choose to go down the river rather than face the ocean directly. The La Richardais Nautical Club offers rentals and guided outings, accessible to families, to discover this coastal river in a peaceful and enchanting setting.
- 🚣♂️ Activity: Kayaking on the Rance
- 👨👩👧👦 Suitable for families and beginners
- 🌊 Route: River calmer than the sea
| 📍 Rental: La Richardais Nautical Club | Option | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Rental | From La Richardais Nautical Club | Guided Outings |
| Kayak Trip 35 | Zone | Rance River |
Experience Creativity at the Manoli Museum: a Unique Art Space Near Dinard
To round off this cultural and nature journey, the Manoli Museum, located in La Richardais, offers an exceptional artistic experience. It features more than 200 works by the sculptor Manoli, renowned for his innovative creations combining fire and molten granite.
The sculpted bestiary, with its astonishing owls and sheep, delights children and adults alike. This peaceful, natural setting enhances the discovery of the region with a touch of emotion and artistic wonder, a wonderful balance to the more physical activities previously enjoyed. 🎨 Artist: Manoli, fire sculptor
🏞️ Setting: museum in a green setting
- 🦉 Key works: original and surprising bestiary
- 👨👩👧👦 Accessible: family cultural activity
- Appearance
- Description
| Location | La Richardais, near Dinard |
|---|---|
| Type of art | Cast granite sculptures |
| Number of works | More than 200 |
| Audience | Families, art lovers |
| Frequently asked questions about activities in Dinard and the Emerald Coast | What is the best season to visit Dinard and the Emerald Coast? |
Can you rent bikes on site to explore the coast? Yes, several rental companies, such as Breiz Cycles® in Dinard, offer a wide selection of bikes suitable for the whole family.
What activities are suitable for children?
Geocaching, shellfish gathering, strolls along the coastal path, and fun tours of Belle Époque villas are perfect for young children.
- Where can you taste local specialties in Dinard?
- Dinard’s markets, as well as restaurants such as Merci Monsieur or La Petite Longère, are essential for tasting Breton flavors.
- How do I book a guided tour of the Rance tidal power plant?
- It is recommended to book by phone (+33 2 99 16 37 14) to guarantee your place during the times offered, from Tuesday to Friday.
| For more ideas on family activities in Brittany, don’t hesitate to consult this comprehensive guide, a valuable resource for planning a successful stay. | |
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