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Guérande
Guérande is a magnificently preserved medieval town situated at the end of a peninsular. The thick ramparts of the town overlook the square salt swamps which provide an income for the town. This natural salt is carefully gathered by the townsfolk using traditional methods, and graces the finest tables in France. “Gwen Ran” or white town, Guérande owes its livelihood to salt, which in olden times was so precious it was used as currency for commercial transactions. The salt flats are home to a magnificent array of flora and fauna, with egrets and blue heron being possible sightings if you are lucky. The salt farmers are very respectful of the wildlife, and take care to make as little impact as possible on it.
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Go into the town to find out more about the local history. The magnificent Saint-Aubin church, with its granite walls, is surrounded by winding streets of immense charm. Always a Breton stronghold, Guérande was ravaged by the Spaniards during the wars of succession. It was within these walls that the duchess Anne, who governed Brittany, signed her first treaties
Croizic is a lively port on the other side of the peninsular. Shrimp fishing is the major activity. There are superbly preserved houses, and some fantastic beaches too. Coming to Guérande is to visit the true heart of traditional Brittany.
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