Luxury Travel in Brittany: Why Morbihan Is France’s Best-Kept Secret

If you’ve been yearning for an authentic yet refined escape on France’s Atlantic coast, the Morbihan region of southern Brittany should be next on your radar. With its picturesque harbors, white sand beaches, charming medieval villages, elegant local gastronomy, and discreet luxury, Morbihan offers the kind of experience that savvy travelers from around the world are starting to discover—but hasn’t yet hit the mainstream. That’s precisely what makes it so special.

copyright: Alexandre Lamoureux

Why Visit Morbihan?

The name "Morbihan" means "little sea" in Breton, and that poetic nickname perfectly captures the area’s essence. Fringed by rugged coastline and dotted with more than 40 islands, this region blends natural beauty with cultural richness in a way few places do. It’s a playground for those who love sailing, history, wellness, fine dining, and a slower, more intentional pace of travel.

The Premium Traveler’s Playground

Elegant Excursions by Sea
One of the most exclusive experiences in Morbihan is a private boat tour of the Gulf of Morbihan itself. Charter a skippered yacht or vintage sailing boat from the port of Vannes or La Trinité-sur-Mer and weave your way among the 50 islands—some inhabited, some entirely wild. Stop at Île-aux-Moines for a seaside lunch, or drop anchor near Île d’Arz for a quiet moment of contemplation.

VERTU’s pick: Belle-Île-en-Mer, for a chic experience

Chic Coastal Villages & Artisan Markets
Morbihan is known for its beautifully preserved villages like Rochefort-en-Terre (a former “most beautiful village in France”) and Saint-Goustan, with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses that wouldn’t look out of place on a film set. These are the kinds of places where you can wander into a centuries-old chapel, then browse a gallery of contemporary Breton artists or a boutique selling handmade ceramics, linen clothing, and delicate jewelry.

VERTU’s pick: Marché de Carnac (Wednesdays & Sundays), known for its upscale, organic, and artisanal products.

Premium Shopping in Vannes
Vannes is the beating heart of Morbihan—and the best place for upscale shopping. The old town is filled with independent designers, high-end local fashion labels, and gourmet shops. Look for finely aged Breton caramels, small-batch cider, or marine-inspired fragrances made by regional perfumers.

VERTU’s pick: The Breton Fish Company located 26, rue Saint-Vincent 56000 Vannes

Wellness & Nature
For those craving serenity, Morbihan’s coastal paths, thalassotherapy spas, and unspoiled beaches provide ample opportunity to reconnect with nature. Book a personalized spa ritual with sea-sourced minerals or take a sunrise yoga session overlooking the ocean. And if you're feeling adventurous, horseback riding on the dunes or paddleboarding at Carnac are luxurious in their own right—experiences that root you in the place.

VERTU’s pick: the Quiberon Peninsula, with its spectacular rugged coast to the west and beautiful sandy beaches to the east it offers 14 km of varied landscapes.

A Culinary Scene Rich in Tradition & Refinement

Breton cuisine is a revelation—hearty, fresh, and sophisticated all at once. In Morbihan, Michelin-starred restaurants and elegant bistros showcase the best of land and sea. Expect delicacies like blue lobster, scallops cooked in cider butter, or lamb from salt meadows. Crêpes and galettes are elevated to art forms here, and local oysters, plucked straight from the bay, are served with a glass of brut cider or a crisp Muscadet.

For something truly unique, seek out a private chef experience at your accommodation or aboard a boat. Farm-to-table menus built around the day’s catch are a growing trend in the region’s more discreet luxury venues.

VERTU’s pick: Restaurant L’Inattendu, Kervignac, one michelin star.

Where to Stay: Domaine de Locguénolé

Set within a vast private estate and nestled on the banks of the Blavet river, the Domaine de Locguénolé is the epitome of Breton elegance. This historic manor offers refined luxury with a deeply personal touch—think panoramic views, antique-filled rooms, impeccable service, and a Michelin-starred dining experience. It’s more than just a place to stay: it’s a destination in itself.

Whether you're sipping wine in the grand salon, exploring the surrounding woodlands, or simply soaking in the serenity from your suite, this is where premium travelers find their haven.

Domaine de Locguénolé, a member of the VERTU Collection