The Most Beautiful Villages of Brittany

The latest installment of the lavishly illustrated Most Beautiful Villages series focuses on the picturesque hamlets of Brittany in northwest France. Written by James Bentley and photographed by Hugh Palmer, The Most Beautiful Villages of Brittany depicts the rich history of the proud and independent Bretons (who trace their ancestry back to the Celts). With 2,100 miles of coastline, the region's livelihood has forever been intertwined with a sometimes unforgiving sea, and the still-standing granite Romanesque homes and churches built centuries ago reflect the considerable Breton resilience. Well organized, the book is divided into four chapters, each dedicated to an area of Brittany (Finistère, Morbihan, Ille-et-Vilaine and Côtes-d'Armor), with villages listed alphabetically. Highlights include Josselin's medieval fortifications, Treguier's unique half-timbered houses, the steeply pitched roofs in Becherel, and the stunning rock formations and sandy beaches found along the famous pink granite coast of Ploumanac'h'. Throughout the book are wonderful shots of harbors dotted with colorful fishing boats, charming flower-filled town squares, intricate stained glass, and windows adorned with delicate Brittany lace. The last chapter, "Traveller's Guide," lists practical information (hotels, restaurants), as well as downright necessities (local creperies). --Jill Fergus