رين الزهور

While Rennes is a fascinating city in its own right it is also a superb base from which to explore the eastern region of Brittany. A university city and regional capital of Brittany, Rennes is lively and vibrant with much to offer the interested visitor. Although the city can trace its origins back to the 2nd century BC unfortunately a large fire decimated much of the old town in 1720. However there are still a few fine examples of original architecture the parliament building being but one. There are also many quaint and quirky 300 year old timber framed houses to be seen, a testimony to the hard work and skill of the local craftsmen of the day. Take a seat at one of the many pavement cafes and soak up the atmosphere and try in your mind’s eye to envisage what life must have been like in these medieval streets. Plan your trip over a weekend to ensure that you don't miss the fabulous Saturday market and grab a tasty galette saucisse to sustain you as you shop. Head to the highest hill in the city to discover the wonderful Parc du Thabor where you will find French style gardens, an English park, a bandstand and aviary. Check out the colourful rose garden , perfectly manicured lawns laid out with shrubs and borders of tulips and dahlias. The blooms on the magnolia trees are picture perfect and a trip in the month of May will delight the visitor as the rhododendrons are at their colourful best.