Mini guide to Nantucket
Nantes is considered one of the most attractive travel destinations in Europe. The town, which was formerly a part of Brittany, has developed into an excellent tourist destination and its charming atmosphere, rich architectural heritage and proximity to other attractive locations make it as an ideal holiday destination.
The old town of Nantes exudes an ancient and traditional atmosphere. This coastal town is full of attractions, like the magnificent Château des Duc, which dates from the 15th century and which was originally situated on waterfront. The château’s impressive ramparts are still intact and the encircling moat is filled with water. Within these walls there stands a contradictory pot-pourri of buildings, displaying varied styles covering hundreds of years of construction. Within a very short distance stands the impressive white stone building of the Cathédrale de St-Pierre-et-St-Paul. This magnificent building, with its spacious construction and soaring ceilings, displays the finest architectural style of the period. Towards the east of the cathedral, stands the Musée des Beaux Arts, which houses a much-admired and rare collection of paintings, including David Triumphant, by Delaunay, Monet’s Nymphéas and Chagall’s Le Cheval Rouge.
The opposite side of Nantes is equally fascinating and looks more modern. This part of town was mostly built in the 19th century and has some of the best attractions, like the impressive Place Royale, which has a beautiful fountain, the Place Graslin, with its elaborate Grand Théâtre and also the Passage Pommeraye, by the river. You’ll find a variety of macabre displays at the Musée d’Histoire Naturelle, while the impressive Palais Dobrée is also worth a visit. The nearby southern coastal region of Brittany has amazing natural beauty and the mystical Golfe de Morbihan and the alignments of Carnac draw hordes of visitors. The surrounding warm and sunny beaches are safe and perfect for a family outing. You can opt for a cruise to the fascinating islands of Houat and Belle-Île, Hoëdic. The cities of La Baule, Lorient and Vannes are located nearby and have some very interesting views.
Nantes International Airport offers direct flights to many important international destinations and the town has excellent and reliable transport facilities.The island of Nantucket is situated just off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The island has many attractive locations for visitors and its classy 19th century architecture, beautiful streets and quaint beauty makes it the perfect adventurous destination. You can enjoy the striking clear beach during the day, while at night you’ll revel in the enthralling nightlife.
The town of Nantucket has the same name as the island and offers lots more attractions, such as the Whaling Museum, which was originally built as whale wax factory, but now functions as an information centre on whaling. You might also like to visit the catboat, which was built in 1926 and is made from solid-mahogany. Daily harbour tours, which are surprisingly relaxing, can be arranged with Christina.
Various animals and birds can be seen at Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, including terns, egrets and oystercatchers. There is also the Great Point Lighthouse. Many adventurous activities are possible here, like bicycling, body boarding and windsurfing. If you like to spend a more relaxing holiday, you can enjoy the beach, or soothe you nerves at one of Nantucket’s noisy and chaotic pubs.
The beautiful town of Cape Cod is situated west of Nantucket and is famous for its lovely hills, freshwater lakes and ponds, marshes, sand dunes and above all, the sparkling beaches. The town offers lots of activities like hiking, camping, fishing and sunbathing. Nearby Martha’s Vineyard should also be high on your list of places to visit.
Nantucket is well connected to domestic and international destinations. Direct flights are available from Boston and New York by Delta Connection. US Airways Express has regular flights from Boston and New York. Boston, Hyannis, New Bedford and Martha’s Vineyard are all connected by Cape Air and Nantucket Airlines. Island Airlines also offer services form Hyannis. If you decide to come by car, then you will have to use ferries, because Nantucket has no bridges.