In a time-honoured tale, English ex-pats Anne and Ralph Harrison went looking for the French countryside dream and found it just outside the picturesque Breton village of Plouguenast. Discovering their own pocket of rural bliss, this affable couple set about transforming the sprawling grounds of the newly acquired farmhouse into one of the area's prettiest spots for pitching up.
Pinàbre (named after the plentiful towering pine trees which tower over the grounds) is the Goldilocks' bed of campsites – not too big; not too small; just right. Well... we say not too big – though it is an ample 7,000 square metres, your conscientious hosts have a refreshingly informal 'no-set pitches' policy, with a maximum of just 10 emplacements.
With all this free space, campers are free to boot a ball around the well-kempt, fir-fringed field without fear of disturbing their fellow campers – though in a setting as tranquil as Pinàbre, such disagreeable natures are sure to melt away.
The site boasts all the ammenities we've come to expect of our French campsites (including a trampoline and paddling pool for the kids), though with a pleasing lack of commericalism.
Considerate to the last, Ann and Ralph will even let you borrow a bike from charming old barn for the short cycle along traffic-free lanes into Plouguenast for your morning pastries.
With a charming array of Breton towns just waiting to be discovered, and the golden sands and crashing waves of the Atlantic coast all within easy reach, isn't it about time you shared in Anne and Ralph's dream too?
The stunningly beautiful Abbaye de Bon-Repos (0033 296 24 82 20) is just 26 miles from Pinàbre, on the western end of Brittany's largest lake, the Lac de Guerlédanthe (itself a great spot for watersports). This 12th century Cistercian abbey hosts regular exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as a weekly farmers market every Sunday. Its waterside location boasts lovely views of the idyllic Nantes to Brest canal. If visiting in August, be sure to attend the yearly son et lumière – a dazzling historical reenactment featuring hundreds of costumed actors, animals, and a spectacular fireworks display. Learn about the industrial heritage of the region at Forges des Salle (0033 619 60 55 10), an 18th century settlement synonymous with the iron industry. Visit the period homes once lived in by the workers and marvel at the views over Quénécan forest – Breton's herbacious 'Little Switzerland'. There are 3 small beaches within driving distance, while Le-Val-Andre (about 30 minutes drive away) is one of Brittany's most beautiful (not to mention popular) with golden sands, a grand 19th century promenade, and a charming, 'hidden' harbour. The time-warp town of Pontivy is a must-see. Formerly Napoléonville and onetime capital of Breton dynasty, the Rohan family, Pontivy is a beguiling mix of imperial geometry and medieval architecture, dominated by the 15th century château overlooking the River Blavet. This bustling town is also home to a lively Monday market.
Anne and Ralph are full of great local recommendations. L'Auberge (0033 296 28 77 31) and Le Bon Accueil (0033 296 73 40 70) in Plouguenast are both good shouts. If spending the day in Pontivy, head to L'Aiglon (0033 297 27 98 08) for a decent slice of pizza or the canal-side terrace at L’Auberge de l’île (0033 297 25 15 300) for some al fresco seafood.