British Archipelagos and Celtic Shores

The mere mention of Saint-Malo’s name is enough to plunge us back into the richness of its past. The fortifications stand as testimony to the Malouins’ determination to defend their citadel, fought over by France and Britain in turn. When we drop anchor here, immerse yourself in the diversity of its heritage: the time when privateers sailed the oceans in search of trade and victories; the legendary yacht races the port city is still famous for, such as the Route du Rhum; and the final resting place of the French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, who was born here and chose to be buried here anonymously.

Guernsey is an atypical and unforgettable port of call. This Channel Island will delight you with its mild, iodic climate and its green and floral landscapes. Don’t be surprised to come across dolmens and menhirs here and there, testifying to the long history of the island and its rich heritage. The attractive capital of St. Peter Port is characteristic of the delightful British atmosphere that gives the island its charm. The memory of the great writer Victor Hugo is also very present, as he lived for fifteen years in exile in Guernsey. His home, Hauteville House, preserves his memory. The incredible richness of the decoration gives a clear illustration of the creative genius of this great man. A neighbour of Guernsey and the smallest of the Channel Islands, Herm offers escape, tranquillity and authenticity. A green and rocky islet with a population of 60 souls, time seems suspended here, and you will hear only the captivating melody of the Channel swirling against the jagged cliffs, and the colonies of seabirds flying over these preserved lands. Steeped in history and mystery, it also shelters fine expanses of fine sand on which woolly mammoths roamed millions of years ago. Neolithic colonies have been discovered and excavations have revealed evidence of a prehistoric beach.

Succumb to the charming setting of the small town of Dartmouth in the county of Devon, South-East England. Set in the heart of lush scenery, on the banks of the River Dart’s estuary, the town’s magnificent landscapes are typical of English countryside. Its picturesque paved streets will let you discover sumptuous half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries while, on the northern bank of the river, you will be able to admire former fishermen’s houses in their pastel colours. Now a popular tourist destination, this small port town has nonetheless managed to retain its relaxing and romantic atmosphere.

In mythical Cornwall, at the mouth of the River Fowey, the eponymous town surprises and enchants. Edged with lush valleys, Fowey is ideal for those who love nature and the great outdoors and are looking to escape and relax. The charming little town has many coastal hiking trails. Stroll through its narrow streets of its picturesque old town, which was home to the British novelist and playwright Daphné du Maurier as well as inspiring her work.

Nestling in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, at the south west tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a small British island chain whose climate, landscapes and lifestyle are unlike any other and seem to have come straight from an Enid Blyton story. Here, everything resembles a tropical paradise. The long sandy beaches run alongside lush green meadows teeming with semi-exotic flowers, whilst the ruins of ancient castles loom from the tops of the hills. Veritable havens of peace that inspired the legendary Avalon of King Arthur, they are today listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged coastline plays host to wildlife that is as varied as it is exceptional, including the very rare Atlantic grey seal.

In the hollow of a majestic harbour north of the Durrus Peninsular, in southwestern Ireland, in County Cork, the village of Bantry appears between spectacular cliffs, a fascinating bay and huge expanses of amber-coloured moors. Like a postcard of a wild, preserved and authentic Ireland, this charming small town can be explored via its coastline shredded by the winds and currents, and its small paved streets edged with Georgian- and Victorian-style residences. Fall under the spell of one of the village’s emblematic sites, Bantry House. A majestic 17th-century manor house dominating the bay, it will charm you with its architecture, its enchanting French-style gardens and its captivating panoramas.

From the very endearing small town of Cobh, you will set out to discover Cork, rich with a history that goes back to Viking times. During our visit here, we invite you to take an exceptional trip to Blarney Castle, dating from 1446 and renowned for its legends and its ancient stones. At the end of your visit, do not miss the chance of kissing the “Stone of Eloquence”, located at the top of the monument, which legend tells will confer its powers upon you.

The Irish capital stretches along the banks of the Liffey to Dublin bay, on the East coast of Ireland. Discover Ireland’s warm conviviality in the pedestrian district of Temple Bar. Its cobbled streets are brimming with fabulous shops, pubs and arts centres. Next to Trinity College, famous for its 18th century library, you can stroll along Grafton Street: in one of its famous tea shops, try a delicious scone and clotted cream served hot and melt-in-the-mouth with jam. Not far from here, the majestic O’Connell bridge leads you to the avenue with the same name, on which Spire, a luminous contemporary sculpture presides.

Itineraries are subject to change.