Chat and dating in Vannes, from the ramparts to the gulf

The ramparts and La Garenne washhouses

Few Brittany towns have kept such a complete medieval wall. In Vannes, the lower rampart garden lines flower beds, geometric lawns and the long slate-roofed La Garenne washhouses. You walk in the shade of the towers, pause on a bench, listen to the blackbirds whistle. A date-opening of very Breton gentleness.

Place Henri-IV, cathedral and La Cohue

At the heart of the old town, Place Henri-IV lines up half-timbered houses with staggering overhangs. Nearby, Saint-Pierre Cathedral blends Gothic and Renaissance styles and holds the relics of Saint Vincent Ferrier. Facing it, La Cohue, a former market turned fine-arts museum, is worth a detour. Strolling hand in hand through these lanes, watched over by Vannes and his wife in their niche, charms through every season.

Port and Gulf of Morbihan

From Vannes’ port, boats head out to the Gulf of Morbihan and its mythical islands, including the Île aux Moines and Île d’Arz. A short cruise for two, faces to the wind, is a perfect invitation. In town, the port terraces and Place Gambetta liven up summer evenings. On Lyad, Vannes members share their favourite islands; it is up to you to find someone to set sail with.