Ille-et-Vilaine
Ille-et-Vilaine, one of the region's departments Brittany in the northwest of the Franceis named after the two rivers that run through it: the Ille and the Vilaine. With a population of around 1.1 million, over 200,000 of whom live in Rennes, its prefecture and regional capital, this département is distinguished by its richness and diversity.
This guide invites you to immerse yourself in Ille-et-Vilaine and explore its varied landscapes, rich heritage, vibrant culture and renowned gastronomy. Whether you're looking for a natural getaway, historical discoveries, local traditions or festivities, Ille-et-Vilaine is sure to meet your expectations.
Join us as we discover must-see sites, hidden gems and unmissable experiences in this iconic département of Brittany.
Ille et Vilaine must-sees
Ille et Vilaine is a department rich in discoveries, famous for its sites of exceptional beauty, its historical heritage and its unique atmosphere. Discover below the emblematic places not to be missed during your visit.
Rennes, historic and cultural capital
As prefecture of Ille et Vilaine and capital of Brittany, Rennes is a lively city, where tradition and modernity meet. Its historic center will amaze you with its half-timbered houses, the majestic cathedral, the Parliament of Brittany and a host of historic monuments.
The city is also a vibrant cultural center, offering museums, festivals, theaters and concert halls. Rennes is also renowned for its green spaces, with parks, gardens and the banks of the Vilaine River offering peaceful walks.
Saint-Malo and the Emerald Coast
Saint-Malo, the famous corsair city, has preserved its impressive ramparts, towers and historic gates. The birthplace of famous navigators, the city is steeped in history and offers, as a seaside resort, magnificent beaches, water sports and a gastronomy rich in seafood.
The Emerald Coast, stretching from Cancale to Dinard, will charm you with its diverse landscapes, combining cliffs, coves, dunes and small islets.
Mont-Saint-Michel and its bay
Mont-Saint-MichelThis UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, with its Benedictine abbey, church, cloister and fortifications. A major pilgrimage site, it attracts millions of visitors from all over the world.
Mont-Saint-Michel Bay is a natural jewel offering breathtaking views, especially during high tides. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and offers the chance to observe unique natural phenomena such as tidal bores and quicksand.
The forest of Brocéliande, land of legends
The forest of Brocéliande, the setting for Arthurian legends, invites you to escape with its tales of Merlin, the fairy Viviane and the knights of the Round Table. This enchanted forest contains magical sites such as the Val sans Retour, Merlin's tomb, the Barenton fountain and the Hindrés oak.
In addition to its mythical appearance, Brocéliande is a living forest, rich in biodiversity, with ponds, moors and rock formations. It offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and horse-riding, as well as entertainment and shows.
Heritage, culture and gastronomy
The department of Ille-et-Vilaine stands out for the richness of its heritage, the liveliness of its culture and the diversity of its gastronomy. Whether you're a lover of architecture, popular traditions or culinary delights, you'll be delighted by the variety and excellence of what Ille-et-Vilaine has to offer.
Discover below some of the wonders that await you during your visit to Ille-et-Vilaine.
An architectural heritage not to be missed
Ille-et-Vilaine is proud of its exceptional architectural heritage, a reflection of its rich history and unique identity. Admire religious gems such as Saint-Pierre Cathedral in Rennes, Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey and Saint-Sauveur Basilica in Dinan. Explore impressive castles and fortresses, such as Château de Fougères, Fort La Latte and Château de Combourg.
You'll also be amazed by extraordinary megalithic sites, such as the menhirs at Saint-Just, the dolmen at La Roche-aux-Fées and the covered alley at Tréal.
Breton culture and events to discover
Ille-et-Vilaine vibrates to the rhythm of Breton culture, with its rich language, music, dances, costumes and legends. Learn to speak Breton, listen to the sound of the biniou, dance the gavotte, try on the Bigouden costume or immerse yourself in the tales of Brocéliande. Take part in the many festive events that punctuate the year, such as pardons, fest-noz, festivals and local fêtes.
Don't miss cultural highlights such as the Tombées de la Nuit festival in Rennes, the Dinard British Film Festival and the Étonnants Voyageurs festival in Saint-Malo.
Culinary specialities of Ille et Vilaine
Prepare to be seduced by Ille-et-Vilaine's culinary specialties, which combine simplicity and flavor. Savor the treasures of the sea, including Cancale oysters, Bouchot mussels and scallops. Discover local products such as salted butter, cider, ribot milk cheese and buckwheat galettes.
Finish on a sweet note with sweets such as crêpes, kouign-amann, far breton or palets bretons.
Outdoor activities and leisure
The department of Ille et Vilaine offers a wealth of opportunities for lovers of outdoor activities and leisure. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an adventurer at heart or simply in search of new experiences, you'll discover a multitude of options for fun and rejuvenation. Discover below a selection of activities to share with family, friends or solo.
Hiking and biking
With over 5,000 km of marked trails, Ille et Vilaine is the ideal playground for hikers and cyclists of all levels. The department offers a wide variety of landscapes, from forests and bocages to valleys, marshes, coastlines and even islands. Themed itineraries, such as the famous GR 34, which hugs the Emerald Coast, or the Vélodyssée, which stretches from the north to the south of the département, promise enriching discoveries.
Beaches and water sports
The Ille et Vilaine coastline, over 100 km long, is dotted with sandy beaches, creeks, fishing ports and marinas, as well as popular seaside resorts such as Saint-Malo, Dinard and Cancale. It's the perfect setting for a variety of water sports, from sailing and kayaking to surfing, paddling, diving and jet-skiing. Swimmers can also take advantage of the Bon-Secours seawater pool in Saint-Malo, or the Aquatonic water park in Rennes.
Natural parks and green spaces
The two regional nature parks, Parc de Brière and Parc d'Armorique, are havens of peace, preserving exceptional natural areas rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. These parks offer the opportunity to observe rare animal and plant species, such as otters, herons and wild orchids. Ille et Vilaine is also home to numerous green spaces and historic sites, from salt marshes to thatched cottage villages, not forgetting the Parc des Gayeulles in Rennes, the Lac de Trémelin in Iffendic, or the legendary Brocéliande forest in Paimpont.
Conclusion
Ille-et-Vilaine, with its undeniable charmis the perfect department for those in search of adventure, relaxation or fun. It's home to such gems as Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo and the mystical Brocéliande forest.
The region shines with its rich heritage, immersive culture and delicious Breton gastronomy. Whether you're a keen hiker, cyclist, sailor or scuba diver, Ille-et-Vilaine offers a wide range of activities to satisfy your every desire. Don't delay, plan your trip to Ille-et-Vilaine today and enjoy an unforgettable experience!
FAQ
What is the department number for Ille-et-Vilaine?
Ille-et-Vilaine's department number is 35. Located in the Brittany region, to the east of the Armorican Massif, it is an integral part of the French territory.
What are the largest towns in Ille-et-Vilaine?
Ille-et-Vilaine's largest cities, including Rennes, Saint-Malo, Fougères, Bruz and Vitré, all have more than 18,000 residents according to 2020 census figures. Their surface areas range from 37 km² for Saint-Malo to 50 km² for Rennes.
Why do we say Ille-et-Vilaine?
The name Ille-et-Vilaine comes from the department's two main rivers: the Vilaine and its tributary the Ille, which meet at Rennes. Its Breton name is Il-ha-Gwilen.
What are the inhabitants of Ille-et-Vilaine called?
The residents of Ille-et-Vilaine are called Bretilliens, a name derived from the merger between Bretons and Illiens, adopted by the elected members of the General Council in 2013.
