The second-home market in Brittany has seen an unprecedented boom in recent years. With its beautiful landscapes, from the seaside to the countryside, its local culture and its still affordable prices, the region appeals to those who dream of a corner of paradise for family get-togethers. From Saint-Malo to Quiberon, via the Golfe du Morbihan, the Breton coast offers many possibilities for buying a vacation home. Whether you’re looking to create family memories or invest in real estate for seasonal rental, Brittany has a lot to offer. Find out why this region is becoming the preferred choice for family homes, while also offering interesting opportunities for investors.
Growing appeal post-pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has, unsurprisingly, changed living and working habits, prompting many city dwellers to seek out more spacious environments close to nature. Brittany, with its unspoilt coastal landscapes and peaceful living environment, has become a prime destination for second-home buyers.
Parisians, as well as residents of major metropolitan areas, are now turning to towns like Saint-Malo, Quimper or Vannes for their vacation homes.
Interest in Breton properties from foreign buyers, particularly from the UK, continues to grow, reflecting a trend that is now well established.
A local phenomenon: Bretons invest at home
The property market in Brittany reveals an interesting phenomenon: a significant proportion of second homes are purchased by Bretons themselves. In fact, 43% of second homes in Brittany are owned by local residents.1. Many choose to acquire a vacation home on the coast or in the Breton countryside, whether for leisure or as a long-term investment.
Local families appreciate the opportunity to enjoy weekends or vacations by the sea or in the countryside, while remaining close to their main residence. What’s more, many Bretons living or working far from their native region seize the opportunity to return regularly to their homeland by buying a second home.
Prices still affordable, but on the rise
Brittany remains relatively affordable compared to other French coastal regions, but property prices are rising significantly due to strong demand. According to recent data, the average price per m² in Brittany remains lower than on the Côte d’Azur or the Atlantic, but the most sought-after coastal areas are seeing their prices soar.
Average price per m²: Around €2,500 in departments such as Côtes-d’Armor and Morbihan, where properties are particularly attractive to investors and second-home buyers.
However, in highly sought-after locations such as Saint-Malo, La Trinité-sur-Mer and Quiberon, prices can reach €5,000/m² or more, depending on proximity to the sea and the area’s tourist appeal.
This upward trend is particularly marked in seaside resorts and popular coastal towns. On the other hand, more rural or inland areas, such as central Finistère, still offer more affordable opportunities for investors looking to establish themselves at more moderate prices.
Unique natural and cultural assets
Brittany is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, and for its rich cultural heritage.
Côtes-d’Armor and the Gulf of Morbihan are renowned for their stunning landscapes, while cultural sites such as the megaliths of Carnac and medieval towns like Dinan enrich the experience of residents and visitors alike.
Outdoor activities, such as hiking the GR34 coastal path, local festivals like the Festival Interceltique de Lorient or Les Vieilles Charrues, and prestigious sailing events like the Route du Rhum, make Brittany an attractive region for new buyers and local residents alike.
Attractive rental yields
Brittany, a popular tourist destination, offers attractive potential for rental investment. Vacation homes, particularly those by the sea or near tourist attractions, enjoy strong seasonal demand. In towns such as Saint-Malo, Carnac and Lorient, rental properties enjoy high occupancy rates, especially in summer and during cultural events. This dynamic creates lucrative opportunities for owners, making investment in a Breton second home an attractive option for diversifying one’s real estate assets with promising profitability. To find out more, read our article on renting out your second home .
Accessibility, a real strength
Brittany’s accessibility is an undeniable asset for those looking to buy a second home. Thanks to the TGV network, many of Brittany’s towns are within easy reach of Paris. In addition to Rennes, which can be reached in around 1h30, other destinations such as Saint-Malo, Vannes, Lorient and Brest can also be reached in just a few hours. This speed makes it possible to take full advantage of second homes, even for short stays.
For controlled management, choose Cazmate!
Simplify life in your family home with Cazmate: shared calendar, task tracking, closet inventory, opening and closing instructions, and centralized documents. Manage your home transparently with your family and friends. It’s sure to be a welcome addition to your next cousinly getaway or weekend getaway.