Dinan Ramparts, the Rance, & Mussels

Yesterday’s post was late again, so you may want to scroll down and view.  Back on schedule today.

As always, click on any photos for larger views

As usual, our B&B breakfast was wonderful.  Just the breads would make it grand.  At 9:30 we ventured out into Dinan.  Since the Saint Sauveur Basilica is almost next door and it had just opened, we wandered it.  An eclectic combination of Gothic and Romanesque architecture (yes, I read the guide), we especially admired the beautiful stained glass windows.

Next we descended down a long road to Dinan’s harbor on the River Rance.  There is a short (one hour) boat tour on the river, so we took it.  While we were on the boat, the skies cleared to beautiful blue.  The trip only goes a few kilometers, through a lock, and turns around at the St-Magloire Priory built in the 12^th century.

On returning to the port we did two food things.  First I made reservations for dinner tonight at the L’Atelier Gourmand.  Second, we decided to have lunch outdoors on the river at the Café Terrasses.  Food-wise it was fine, but weather-wise the blue skies disappeared under thick clouds again.  No rain though, and the food was good.  I had fish soup followed by a delicious salmon in saffron sauce, all accompanied by a large Meteor beer.  Elaine had a Breton pate and wine.

Then we climbed back up a different steep hill, and on reaching the top we did a partial circumnavigation of Dinan, sometimes on top of the ramparts, sometimes beside.  En route we visited the St Malo church to see more beautiful stained glass.  Then finally after meandering the narrow streets of the town, we reached the central square again where we stopped for some much needed rest and beer at a sidewalk pub.  Then it was nap time. (Amazingly it was my first nap of the trip.)

Due to the steep hills down to the port, we decided to drive down to dinner.  Going down would have no problem walking, but the climb back up when all you want is your bed would have be tortuous.  L’Atelier Gourmand is noted for its moules (mussels), so there was no question what our main courses would be.  Pictures tell the story:

Appetizers

Mains

Elaine had Tarte Tatin for desert while I opted for just two scoops of delicious raspberry ice cream.