Having never travelled through Europe by rail, I was thrilled to embark on this French adventure with Rail Europe, especially through Brittany and Normandy – places I hadn’t explored before.
Packing for two seasons, I brought jumpers and a puffy jacket. Rail travel is comfortable, with large windows, cozy seats and often a dining carriage. But a few tips are essential for smooth travel.
Choose between a Rail Pass or point-to-point tickets. I used a Eurail pass with the Rail Planner app, which makes managing tickets easy.
Remember to pack light; trains are often two levels, so compact luggage helps and causes less bruises! At the station, look for your train number (not destination) and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to familiarise yourself.
Picture: Natalie Daw (centre)
PARIS
I stayed at Pullman Paris La Defense, a short walk to La Grande Arche de la Defense, CNIT Convention centre, Les Quatre Temps shopping mall and right on the La Defense RER so you can get anywhere quickly.
Such a fabulous hotel with a great bar and restaurant. The property was bright and airy and the rooms were large and tastefully decorated.
NANTES
Blending history and modernity, Nantes is known for its medieval castle, vibrant art scene, gorgeous river front and whimsical mechanical creatures that we experienced when walking the green line that guides you to the best things to see in the city. They really brought out the inner child in all of us!
The Oceania Hotel de France is a centrally located 18th century hotel that features a fabulous clock in the foyer that is correct only twice a day.
The staff were extremely helpful and friendly and nothing was too much trouble. The rooms were adequately sized and had all the features you’d expect from a hotel.
Lunch at Little Atlantique Brewery was a great way to end the morning’s adventures while La Cigale, an emblematic restaurant which opened in 1895, was a terrific step back in time and a joyful example of Art Nouveau.
Dinner at Song Saveurs et Sens was interesting and such a quirky restaurant – great hosts and the meal was fabulous.
LA BAULE
This is a chic seaside resort on the Atlantic coast with luxury villas, charming cafes and upscale shops. The seafood lunch at Le Ponton was hands down the best meal I had during the stay – if you love seafood and ocean views.
GUÉRANDE
A medieval walled town famed for salt marshes, cobblestone streets, historic architecture, vibrant markets and artisanal shops, Guérande reflects Brittany’s rich cultural heritage.
RENNE
We stayed at the Novotel which was a short walk from the railway station. Great location and the rooms were spacious and had all the facilities you needed.
The capital of Brittany, Renne combines medieval charm, half-timbered houses, cultural festivals, a strong student presence and lush gardens.
A food tour of Marché des Lices, one of France’s largest and oldest markets, offers a feast for the senses. Start with freshly baked baguettes and buttery pastries from local boulangeries, followed by tastings of rich, creamy cheeses, like camembert and comté.
Sample charcuterie, including saucisson and pâté, and enjoy succulent Breton oysters and fresh seafood. A true dive into Brittany’s culinary heart!
We enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and amazing views in the rooftop bar at Mama Shelter, an eclectic hotel with playful, creative furnishings.
Our trip to Mont St Michel was memorable, even on my second visit. Surrounded by tidal flats and sometimes appearing as an island, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers great views from the Abbey. A marvel of medieval architecture and spirituality,
Le Grand Hotel Barriere Dinard is where I laid my head for the night and woke to a wonderful sunrise over the water – seen from my bed! Being a corner room I was also lucky to have two balconies from which to enjoy the impressive view. Dinner at the hotel was impeccable and the food delicious.
Our last night’s stay back in Paris was at Pullman Montparnasse, which offers a great location to get to and from the airport. The hotel had large rooms and a fabulous bar. Our French journey ended with champagne and a farewell dinner aboard Bateaux Mouches at Pont de l’Alma. A wonderful ending to a fantastic Rail Europe experience.
