Ille-et-Vilaine is divided into the districts: Rennes, Fougeres, Redon and Saint Malo.. The coastline is about 110 kilometres (70 miles) and is quieter and less jagged than the other parts of Brittany. This part of the impressive coast is also known as the Emerald Coast. This extends from Cancale to Cap Fréhel in Côtes-d'Armor.
It is a lovely place to spend a holiday with your family. The charming town of Cancale is famous for its oysters and mussels. Discover the oyster and walk the harbour and quays, domain of the oyster farmers and the bustling docks where it’s a coming and going of boats.
The art- and history city of Rennes is the capital of Brittany, but also of the Department of Ille-et-Vilaine. It is in terms of population the tenth largest city in France and here you will discover beautiful architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and classicism. You will pass beautiful old houses and the historic centre provides you with typical squares, terraces and restaurants. Sites to visit include Mordelaises Gates, St. Peter's Cathedral and the Champ-Jacquet square with old houses and picturesque streets. Also visit the Town Hall Square, the Parliament of Brittany square and the Palace of Trade on Republic Square.
The medieval town of Fougeres is located on the banks of the river Nançon and has a great cultural heritage. Attractions include the Marchix district, Tanners Street and the place Aristide Briand, but the highlight of this town is the Fougeres Chateau. This impressive castle is built on a rock and offers a magnificent view on the main routes between Normandy and Brittany. It played a ro;le as a border checkpoint for the Duchy of Brittany.
The historic town of Redon also has a rich heritage. Visit the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur, one of the largest monasteries in Brittany during the Middle Ages. Stroll through the historic streets, lined with half-timbered houses and the monastery of Calvairiennes. The old port in Redon has a connection to the canal Nantes - Brest. A visit to the inland shipping museum will give you an insight in the history and life of the sailors operating on these channels.
The lively and authentic coastal town of Saint-Malo is particularly popular destination in the summer. You can make nice walks on the famous walls of the dating from the 12th century. In 1944, the city was almost destroyed, but the ramparts remained intact. From here you have a magnificent panoramic view over Saint-Malo, include the castle of Saint-Malo, the Saint-Vincent, the tomb of Chateaubriand on the Ile de Grand Bé and in the nearby Mont Saint-Michel.