Sail, stay and save this autumn with Brittany Ferries
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Autumn is a great time to sample France and Spain’s northern regions. Across both countries, the seas will be warm after summer. Woodlands turn gold, amber and apricots hues. Crowds are happily absent. Warmer weather than in fast-darkening Britain is highly likely.
And bargain rates await for Sail & Stay holidays. Brittany Ferries has two nights’ B&B in France starting from £139pp, including a return sailing, or four nights in a Spanish hotel from just £242pp. Here are three ideas to whet your appetite...
NORMANDY’S BIG ANNIVERSARY
One French value-for-money option is the Ibis Bayeux Port-en-Bessin hotel, a former post office alongside Port-en-Bessin’s picturesque, focal fishing port where colourful boats bob.
Your bright, modern room will be just a few minutes’ saunter from the town’s Sunday market, shipwreck museum, 12th-century church, cafes and cobbles.
It was 80 years ago this year that this part of Normandy witnessed what’s now known as D-Day, when Allied forces staged a huge amphibious invasion. There are plenty of landing areas and surviving German bunkers close by, including on Omaha Beach, behind whose golden sands the Overlord Museum recounts events.
Memorably located just above is an international 36-hole golf course. Activity-loving visitors might also cycle to calvados producers, or go kayaking or windsurfing.
The benefits of Bénodet
Fewer Britons make it as far as Brittany’s southern coast, rendering Bénodet even more appealing. Fewer than two hours’ drive from Roscoff, this charming seaside resort on the mouth of the Odet River is characterised by its two attractive lighthouses.
This part of the Breton Riviera boasts four superb, sandy beaches in Trez, Coq, Saint-Gilles and Letty. But even those don’t compare to the wilder, white-powder wonders you’ll find on the tropical-feeling Glénan Islands, to which boat tours head until September’s end.
Return for a classic Breton crepe before bedding down in Le Grand Hotel Abbatiale, a spacious but simply furnished residence opposite the harbour and very close to Trez beach. Former patrons include the French actress, Sarah Bernhardt; current guests get reduced rates at a local spa.
SAINTLY SANTANDER
There’s a strong argument to be made for making Cantabria’s largest city your base. A narrow-laned old town abuts its waterfront, while just a mile east is the fudge-coloured sand of El Sardinero beach.
Head west to find the Dunes of Liencres which are known for producing spectacular autumn sundowns. Or drive east to Bilbao for its eye-catching Guggenheim Museum, and to foodie San Sebastian for its pintxos bars.
Santander’s Silken Rio hotel provides style and comfort right by El Sardinero. There’s a broad choice of restaurants close by, and it’s a very short drive to the ferry terminal.
Why Sail & Stay with Brittany Ferries?
Great value isn’t the only reason to consider a Sail & Stay holiday, whatever the season. Getting there is comfortable, with the chance to properly stretch your legs and perhaps even spot dolphins. You can also pack your car with everything you’ll need to make the most of your trip, leaving some room to bring back local goodies.
Short breaks in France start from £130pp and in Spain from just £242pp, including returning sailings with your car. And don’t forget you can save an extra 7% with your Member discount. These offers are only available until 31 October 2024, so why not book your autumn break now?
Save up to 7% with Brittany Ferries
English Heritage members save 7% on Sail & Stay holidays, excluding onboard accommodation. You can also save 5% on Brittany Ferries crossings to France and Spain all year round.
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