Fascinating history, bright colours and intense aromas: in the French city of Rennes, hospitality and a genial welcome are the order of the day! Between the charming half-timbered houses and Renaissance-style buildings, many steps criss-cross the old town, through whose streets you can take a stroll in the bright sunshine. Here, little dwellings and imposing squares tell their own unique history, while the many street cafés and bistros radiate the charm of the present day and invite you to take a break for croissants or a tasty cheese platter. Where cuisine is concerned, Rennes has a great deal to offer – indeed, this is where France’s second-largest food market is held.

The city of Rennes lies in hilly Brittany. This region, shrouded in myths, was once home to the Gauls and was referred to as finis terrae – the end of the world – by the Romans after the conquest. And in actual fact, when you ride your motorbike from Rennes to the coast and gaze out at the limitless expanse of rough sea, it’s not so hard to believe that you’re at the world’s end!