HIGHLIGHTS
- visit the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne
- travel on the Tramway de Nantes, the largest tramway network in France
- relax and explore the cobbled streets and numerous parks
Nantes
Although Nantes was historically the capital of Brittany, it was transferred to the Pays de la Loire in 1962. Nantes is actually considered a port but the city centre has gradually lost touch with its waterways. Visually Nantes is a city of diversity, with its high tech towers affording views of the port, Art Nouveau squares and long reaching canals.
In the centre of Nantes is the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne. This fortification was commenced in 1466 by Francois II and continued by his daughter Anne, who became Queen of France. Originally the castle was encircled by the Loire, but as waterways were filled it became landlocked.