In the Gulf of Morbihan, the small uninhabited island of Gavrinis is home to what is arguably Brittany’s most impressive Neolithic site – a pyramid-shaped stone burial chamber whose interior walls are covered with artwork. The island is accessible via a guided tour by boat from Larmor-Baden.

Above the River Jaudy in the Côtes d’Armor department, Tréguier is best known for being the birthplace of St Yves, the patron saint of lawyers. But this attractive ‘little town of character’ also has a splendid cathedral, a pretty waterside harbour and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

The walled town of Vannes is without doubt one of Brittany’s most attractive sights and a must-visit on any trip to Morbihan. Wander around the well-preserved medieval streets before enjoying a harbour-side lunch then taking a boat trip around the gulf. Kids will love the aquarium and butterflies.

A short and pleasant boat trip across the bay of Lorient, Port-Louis is worth a day of anyone’s time. The main sight is the star-shaped fort, which now houses two fascinating museums, but there’s also a nice – and busy – sandy beach. Energetic sorts can take the coastal path to Locmiquélic.

At the tip of the Crozon Peninsula, Camaret-sur-Mer has proudly defended the Bay of Brest for centuries. As well as the historic Tour Vauban military lookout, Camaret offers visitors some lovely beaches and spectacular views. The annual religious pardon is one of Brittany’s most memorable.

Once famous throughout France for its thriving sardine fishing and canning industries, Douarnenez is now a very popular family resort. As well as its maritime heritage, there is a choice of beaches, scenic coastal walks and a full calendar of events. Let’s not forget the myths and legends….

Not only is Quimper the administrative capital of the Finistère department, it is also generally regarded as the cultural heart of Brittany. The town is known for its cathedral, atmospheric old quarter and museums but most of all for its annual festival celebrating Breton culture.

Now a quiet market town where the River Blavet meets the Nantes-Brest canal, Pontivy was once the seat of one of Brittany’s most powerful families before becoming one of Napoléon’s ‘new towns’. Visit the castle then amble around the streets.

On the frontier between France and Brittany, Vitré was once one of the region’s most important towns. Its 15th and 16th-century buildings rival Dinan for medieval quaintness and its fairytale castle will delight young and old.

As well as being France’s third most important fishing port, Concarneau has other assets that make it a very popular summer resort. The main draw is the quaint ville close (walled town) followed by some lovely sandy beaches and a lively maritime festival in August.

At the western end of the Lac de Guerlédan overlooking the Nantes-Brest canal, the Abbaye de Bon Repos is a must for lovers of contemporary art. The 12th-century Cistercian abbey hosts regular exhibitions, a weekly farmers’ market and a spectacular son et lumière in August.

Le Croisic is best known for its fishing industry but this attractive port was also one of the first tourist resorts in Brittany. The town is a more cost-effective base to explore the Guérande peninsula than nearby La Baule and offers wilder beaches and rugged coastal walks.

While it’s not one of France’s most attractive cities, St-Nazaire makes a fascinating destination for boat and plane enthusiasts as well as fans of World War II history. The beaches along its coastline are some of the best in the Loire Atlantique department; one was immortalised on film.

Josselin is a must-visit on any tour of the Breton heartlands. From its medieval castle, still lived in by members of the legendary Rohan family, to the doll museum, and from its attractive old town to canal-based fun or forest walks, there’s something to interest all members of the family.

The main reason to visit Fougères is to see its magnificent castle, one of the finest fortresses in Europe, but this little town on the Brittany-Normandy border also has a lovely medieval district and a lively Saturday-morning market.

The Bay of Morlaix is best known for its little islands: imposing Château du Taureau, idyllic Île Callot and the tiny islets that make up one of Brittany’s most important ornithology reserves. Then there’s the resort of Carantec, spectacular views and Europe’s largest megalithic mausoleum.

Walking around Dinard, with its Belle Époque villas and stripy beach tents, is like taking a trip back to the 19th century. The most British of Brittany’s resorts is popular with families who are attracted by its sandy beaches and coastal walks. Nearby St-Briac and St-Lunaire are also worth a visit.

In the heart of the Côtes d’Armor department, the characterful little town of Quintin is a well-preserved one-time centre of the weaving industry. Most visitors come to see its châteaux but there are also the watermills as well as some mysterious megaliths.