Auray, France, lies on the shores of the river Loch, to the east of Vannes. It is a pretty town with a gorgeous old town centre and a variety of medieval houses lining the narrow streets. An attractive stone bridge takes visitors to the river front near the remains of an ancient castle, while the magnificent church of St. Gildas boasts a striking Renaissance porch.

Other attractions include the covered market and the weekly open-air market that is held every Monday. Auray has received the ville et pays d’art et d’histoire, or “town of art and history” award in recognition of efforts to preserve its historic buildings and architecture. Also, be sure to rent a car when visiting Auray, as Ste Anne-d’Auray is only a few kilometers away and features a stunning war memorial that commemorates the deaths of more than 250,000 people during World War I.