Castelbrac Hotel & Spa 5*

With spectacular views over the water to St Malo, this fabulous hotel is in a stunning location and is unlike most conventional hotels today. Converted from an old aquarium and research centre which gives the marine inspiration to its decor, it sits above the Claire de la Lune promenade, close to the beach and town centre. Its facilities and hospitality are second to none and include an excellent Michelin starred restaurant that specialises in seafood - booking recommended (closed Mon/Tues) - a heated lap pool overlooking the bay, and a spa suite that offers a variety of treatments. There is even a chapel, and excursions with meals can be booked on the hotel's own private motorboat. Attractive air conditioned bedrooms are spread over 3 levels (no lift) and are furnished to a superior standard overlooking the sea. Pets not accepted. Garage parking 30€/night.

Originally nothing more than a small fishing village, elegant Dinard sits on the Rance estuary and is Brittany's most fashionable resort. Developed by the British back in the 1800s, it has a sedate atmosphere although it's far from lacking in things to see and do boasting a casino, golf course, riding centre, water therapy centre and fine sandy beaches, plus summer festivals and a good choice of shops, bars and restaurants along with a weekly market just to name a few. No visit here is complete without a stroll along the lovely Clair de Lune promenade (Moonlight Walk) which is illuminated at night in July and August and is the perfect place for that evening amble before or after dinner. And in summer if you fancy a trip to St Malo but don't drive, there is a little ferry that runs across the Rance estuary.