There are some terrific traditional Christmas markets popping up all over France this time of year. It's impossible to list them all, but Brittany is known for its wonderful culture, so here are seven of the best ones located in this stunning region.
1. Locronan
For a very beautiful Christmas market, Locronan is the place. It is a pretty little medieval village with picturesque surroundings and each year the narrow streets are transformed for the festive period. Between the 9th December and the 7th January, twinkling lights will adorn the houses and illuminate the windows; the town square is transformed into a little forest of fir trees and there will be around 30 stands selling mulled wine, local produce, handmade crafts and toys. You will be able to hear the Christmas songs drifting from the church and children can enjoy a ride in a horse-drawn cart or maybe even get to meet Santa Claus! The market will be taking place throughout the day and into the evening too.
At only about half an hour away from Hilguy, this one is a good one to visit.
2. St Malo
The port city of St Malo is popular for its city walls and ancient buildings. Though busy in summer, the winter sees St. Malo less crowded and an ideal spot for a relaxing winter get-away. Soak up the traditional Breton culture as you wander the old and beautiful streets, stopping off at the vendors' stalls for Christmas goodies. This year's Christmas market is taking place from the 15th – 17th December and promises choral singing and a visit from Santa as well as around 30 stalls.
3. Brest
Another port town, Brest, is popular for its natural harbour which is nicely sheltered and full of history. The harbour is home to the large castle and is just a short way from where the Christmas market takes place each year in the Place de la Liberté. There are around 50 chalet-style stalls which sell traditional food and various local products. Children can enjoy different entertainment such as a miniature train ride with Santa and a little carousel. This year it is taking place from the 6th – 30th December. Brest is around an hour away from Hilguy.
4. Landerneau
Landerneau sits at the mouth of the river Élorn and one of its famous features is the interesting bridge, the Pont de Rohan which dates from the 16th century. This year the town is hosting its Medieval Christmas Fair on the 10th December and there will be an array of things to see and do including a parade of costumed characters from the Middle Ages and knights' tournaments on horseback. It is just under an hour from Hilguy, on the way to Brest.
5. Saint Goazec
For something a little different, Le Domaine de Trévarez hosts a great Christmas event each year throughout the festive period. The grand Château of Trévarez is located on the outskirts of Saint Goazec and sits amid stunning gardens. In December the château puts on light displays in the gardens. The grounds and the dramatic architecture are illuminated with different colours that lead you on evening walks along the garden pathways, past the kitchen garden and the big pond.
This year an additional attraction comes to the château. A temporary exhibition called Alice in Trévarez takes its inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s famous novel. There are all sorts of sculptures, graphics and reimagined scenes from the story. This year, the Christmas events will be taking place most days from the 25th November 2017 right through to the 7th January 2018.
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