In Search of Medieval France

I'm planning a trip this spring, and would love to see some of the most medieval towns France has to offer. My food-allergic son is studying abroad for two weeks, and mamma bear will feel better being in the same country... just in case. ;)

I started my research online, of course. Here is a top-20 list from "travel passionate," including a helpful map. My son is studying in Dinard, so I started looking on the west coast.

Mont Saint-Michel at sunset

Mont Saint-Michel is a must, of course! I will never forget my intrigue, learning about the island in 7th grade, the tides determining when you could cross. After reading multiple visitor reviews, I decided that a night on the Mont was essential. The idea of roaming the dark alleys after the day visitors have left is just too romantic to resist. I reserved a tiny room for the three of us at La Vieille Auberge.

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Other medieval sites close to Mont Saint Michel (and Dinard) are Saint-Malo, Dinan and Vitré.

Les Grand and Petit Bles, Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo was a pirates' port, and was partially destroyed in WW2. Its costal location looks gorgeous, and I hear there is a view of Dinard on clear days!

Top activities for tourists:

1. Walk the city walls;

2. Walk out to Le Grand Ble and Le Petit Ble at low tide; and

3. Eat!

Local delicacies in Saint-Malo include a round cake called a Kouigin-Amann and sea salt caramels. Galettes, or savory crêpes, are available thought France, but originated in Brittany. All sound delicious - hence the walking activities to burn it off.

The aerial view of Dinan looks charming, like a little Swiss village along a winding river (minus the Alps). There are many tours offered online, or you can get a free walking guide at the tourism bureau. Tops sights are described in detail on Travel France Online, including the Château de Dinan, the Ramparts of Dinan, Basilique St. Sauveur, climbing the clock tower and taking a walk down the Rue du Jerzual. If you are lucky enough to visit in July, you could attend the Fête des Remparts, a medieval festival!

Dinan, France

Vitré's main attraction seems to be the Vitré Castle and Museum. Visiting hours vary considerably depending on which month you are visiting. The historical center looks absolutely charming. However, after comparing the options, I think we will take a day trip to Dinan from Dinard, and spend one night on Mont Saint-Michel. Check back in May '23 to hear how it went!