Becherel and Dinan- lovely towns, each offering something special for the visitor

I never thought that I would get tired of croissants, but we both were craving something different this morning, so we went to the local supermarket, bought enough for this morning's breakfast and headed out of the city.  We found a little country lane, and sat in the car and had our natural yoghurt, fruit, nuts and water while watching a little country mouse in the hedgerow.

Next, we drove along country roads and lanes towards Dinan.  On an impulse, we decided to stop at Becherel and explore it.  What a find!  Becherel has been under siege from different aggressive parties in the past, but today it is a very pretty and peaceful town well worth visiting.  We strolled round the ramparts to take in views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Then we discovered the Galerie l'Ivre de l'Art, a wonderful shop with etchings, pottery, woven books, photography and much more. We talked to the photographer, Cegolene Frisque, who does  really beautiful work, and had to buy several pieces from a few artists.  She explained to us that Becherel is a book town.  Now, one of the things I like about France is how many book shops there are, and how many people still read real books.  In this town, nearly every shop seems to be a book shop or an artists shop.  We really need to return here another year and spend more time - especially in the main square!

Next we headed for Dinan, a wonderfully situated walled town on the hilltop overlooking the River Rance.  Unfortunately, it turned out to be attractive to other tourists too and we couldn't find a park in the old town.  We descended down to the port, which proved almost as crowded and luckily found a spot to park.  We had moule frites on the water front and then had a quick explore.  Visitors were rowing or motoring up and down the river, cycling and walking through the pretty little port. 

There are lots of restaurants, shops and artists studios. It really is worth spending more time here.

We really loved Brittany.  There is so much variety and interest, the country changes  from seaside to farmland, to  towns, but it is united by a pride in the Breton language and culture, a fascinating history closely linked to that of the United Kingdom, and an atmosphere of incredible beauty and peace.  I really don't want to leave.  The food and drinks are good, the people are kind and helpful, the countryside is so relaxing, the towns reveal a new experience in every street.  I love the stone houses, the crucifixes and alters that unexpectedly appear on country lanes, the thick green woods, the wildflowers and the medieval houses. And, I love the feeling that I haven't even discovered a sliver of what the region has to offer.  Do I really have to go?  I've had so much inspiration here, all I really want to do is get out my art equipment and start painting!  Bob, can we afford to buy a little cottage here?