Rennes in November – The perfect place to wash away those early winter blues

The wonderful city of Rennes is the capital of Brittany. With beautiful old buildings, fine gardens, a bursting events calendar and a vibrant art scene, a visit to Rennes is by no way confined to a particular month or season. Having said this, with sparse crowds and a crisp climate, Rennes in November can be a great time to visit.

Rennes was nearly destroyed by a fire in 1720, which left only a few pockets of the really old metropolitan intact. One of the finest buildings that survived the fire is the Palais du Parlement de Bretagne, which was built between the years 1618 and 1655. Sadly this building was devastated by a fire in 1994 but has been restored to an extravagantly high standard. Nowadays this fine old building houses the court of appeal as well as showing exhibitions and concerts periodically.

The garden ‘La Thabor’ is set in 24 acres and is a remarkable place to walk, relax, have a picnic with the family or merely contemplate life. These spectacular gardens were created in 1880. Part of their uniqueness stems from the diversity of culture, which includes a quintessential English garden as well as typical French gardens, lawns, a children’s play area and a famed botanical garden with of 3000 species of plants.

Much of Rennes’ appeal in simply walking around medieval half-timbered houses built in narrow streets, while meandering in and out of the numerous boulangeries, patisseries and boutiques. For some more serious shopping, visiting Rennes Market is almost guaranteed to leave you laden with bags bulging with interesting and quirky items. Rennes Market is one of the biggest markets in France and takes place every Saturday morning.

During November the city plays host to the Mettre en Scene Festival dedicated to displaying avant-garde dance and theatre. It is a place where choreographers and theatre directors can show off their skills. This year the Mettre en Scene Festival takes place from 5 – 23 November. So popular has this underground arts event become that it has spread from Rennes to other Breton towns, including Brest, Vannes, Quimper and Lannion. Visitors will have the chance to see the greats of the avant-garde, such as Francois Verret, Rodrigo Garcia, Martial di Fonzo Bo and others, all coming together for this wonderful celebration of their art.

Running parallel with the Mettre en Scene Festival is a music and dance festival known as “Yaouank”, which means “young” in Breton. Over 6000 people ascend on Rennes for this particularly dynamic festival.

For a lively Breton experience to wash away those early winter blues, a visit to the inspiring city of Rennes in November could be just the ticket.