Domaine de Cicé-Blossac ★★★★

I’m going to let you in on one of my little secrets. Whenever I need to reenergise and get away for a few days, a little light turns on in my mind. Like an alarm signal, it tells me it’s time to take a break, slow down and take care of myself. When this little light switches on, I know it’s high time to go and spend a few days in Brittany, either on the wild and beautiful coastline or further inland, in the gorgeous green countryside.

One of my friends recently stayed at the Domaine de Cicé Blossac. Situated in Bruz, close to Rennes, she assured me that it was the perfect holiday spot to relax and unwind with the whole family. Nestled between Cicé woodland and the Vilaine lakes, you’re in open countryside and at the same time just ten minutes from the distractions of Rennes, the regional capital. It even has a spa and golf course.

During the day, when she wasn’t taking advantage of the hotel’s amenities, she and her family would head off for some shopping in Rennes (with, of course, a couple of bar and restaurant breaks). This is how she discovered a few of the products specific to the region. In a bar, she told me, don’t ask for Coca-Cola, but Breizh Cola: Breton Cola. She also enjoyed trying the different local beers – her favourites were Duchesse Anne, Lancelot, and Sant Erwann. Since Rennes is a bustling town with an impressive town centre, you can easily make some great discoveries. Like her memorable evening in the café-theatre Le Bacchus, for example: a place where you can eat, drink and be entertained!

For those who love the estate’s peace and quiet, it’s also wonderful to spend the day doing nothing but taking advantage of the scenery and the activities on offer. You can enjoy a bicycle ride around Bruz to unwind before heading to the spa for a well-deserved treat after a little exertion. For golfers, experienced and beginners alike, the course is fantastic. It has alternating wooded sections, water obstacles and wide fairways that are evocative of American golf courses. If you’re looking for something more original, you could try out a yoga class, or even Paddle Fitness on the estate’s ponds.

As she was on holiday with her children, my friend chose the more family-friendly apartment accommodation. She told me that whatever they had done during the day, she loved returning to their new little home each evening. It was great to have all the comforts of home, along with the hotel services on top. Above all, she loved its conviviality. It was spacious enough for the whole family to spend time together in the evening with a drink or a game before going to eat at the estate’s restaurant. It is situated opposite the golf course and offers a menu based on seasonal, local products. Its contemporary design and relaxed atmosphere make it the ideal setting for a family dinner or meal with friends.

The Domaine de Cicé Blossac sounds like an enchanting place, and as my friend told me about it I started to imagine spending a few days there myself! A rural retreat with the entertainment of Rennes just next door – perfect!