Guide to Cotes d'Armor & Property in Department 22

Cotes-d'Armor, which stands for 'Cotes-du-Nord', is a department located in the northwestern part of France that was one of the original 83 departments created in March 1790 during the French Revolution. The department was formed from a part of the former province of Brittany. In 1990, the department's name changed to Côtes-d'Armor, meaning 'by the sea' in Breton, the province's second-most-spoken language. The name Côtes-d'Armor has historical significance, as it recalls the Roman province of Armorica, which was located in the same region. The department is numbered 22 and is part of the current administrative region of…

Cotes-d'Armor, which stands for 'Cotes-du-Nord', is a department located in the northwestern part of France that was one of the original 83 departments created in March 1790 during the French Revolution. The department was formed from a part of the former province of Brittany. In 1990, the department's name changed to Côtes-d'Armor, meaning 'by the sea' in Breton, the province's second-most-spoken language. The name Côtes-d'Armor has historical significance, as it recalls the Roman province of Armorica, which was located in the same region. The department is numbered 22 and is part of the current administrative region of Brittany. It is surrounded by the departments of Finistère, Morbihan and Ille-et-Vilaine, with the English Channel to the north. The locals are called Costarmoricains, and the capital city is Saint Brieuc.

Landscape of the Côtes-d'Armor

The department is characterised by an undulating plateau with three well-marked ranges of hills in the south. A granitoid chain, the Monts du Méné, starts in the south-east of the department and runs north-westward, forming the watershed between rivers that flow, respectively, to the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean. Towards its western extremity, this chain bifurcates, forming the Montagnes Noires in the southwest and the Monts d'Arrée in the west of the department. Off the coast, which is steep, rocky, and much indented, are the Jentilez, Bréhat, and other small islands. The principal bays are those of Saint-Malo and Saint-Brieuc.

Charming Dinard

The city of Dinard exudes an elegant charm reminiscent of the 19th century, with its stunning beachfront and cliff-top villas perched on seemingly inaccessible rocky outcrops. A popular walking route from Saint-Malo to Tour Solidor, around the Cité d’Alet, offers breathtaking views of Dinard and its yachts gently bobbing on the sun-drenched, crystal-clear water. It's hard not to feel as though you're in the Mediterranean.

The Magic of Saint Malo

Saint-Malo, often regarded as little more than a bustling ferry port and gateway to Brittany, boasts a unique past and charm that many visitors overlook. The medieval walled city, known as intra muros, has long been an "island" fortress, defended by its residents against various invaders, including the English and even the French.

The Chateau, now housing the Hotel de Ville, proudly flies the city flag above the national tricolore, symbolising the independent spirit of its people, 'Les Maloins'. Despite being largely destroyed during World War II, Saint-Malo was rebuilt to its former glory and today welcomes visitors with open arms. Just 40 kilometres away lies the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel, France's most visited landmark outside of Paris, a must-see for any traveller.

Breton Language and Cultural Identity

The Breton language has become a contentious issue in many parts of Brittany, and many Breton speakers advocate for bilingual schools. In addition to Breton, Gallo is spoken in the East and offered as a language in schools and on the baccalaureate exams. The western part of the department is part of the traditionally Breton-speaking Lower Brittany, which is why the language is an integral part of the local culture. However, due to various historical and political factors, the use of the language has declined in recent years, raising concerns about its future preservation.

Maritime Historical Past

The history of Northern Brittany is rich in maritime adventures, including encounters with pirates, smuggling, naval battles, and the exploits of great explorers. This vibrant past, alongside a stunning coastline and dramatic tides, makes the region particularly appealing. Today, its cosmopolitan towns and cities are among the reasons many foreign buyers choose to settle in Côtes-d'Armor.

Key Information about the Côtes-d'Armor (22)

• Main City/Prefecture: Saint-Brieuc
• Ferry Terminal: Saint Malo
• Population: Around 600,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 6,878 sq. kilometres and 2,656 sq. miles
• Landmark: Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granit Rose), known for its unique pink rock formations and coastal landscapes.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 2 million, drawn by its rugged coastline, fishing villages and historic sites.

Types of Properties for Sale in Côtes‑d’Armor

Explore Brittany’s north coast in Côtes-d’Armor, where charming villages, scenic coastline, and lush countryside set an ideal scene for your dream home. The region boasts a diverse array of elegant manors, traditional longères, villas, and renovated mills, making it an ideal destination for living, vacationing, or investing purposes. Embrace the Breton lifestyle with a blend of modern amenities and rich architectural heritage. 

Common House Styles in the Department

• Breton Longères & Farmhouses: Traditional homes and farmhouses are often renovated with spacious interiors and outbuildings.
• Manor Houses & Châteaux: Elegant period estates offering character, charm, and historic appeal.
• Half-Timbered Houses: Timber-framed homes in towns like Dinan showcase authentic Breton details.
• Contemporary Homes & Villas: Modern houses with open-plan living and energy-efficient designs, in town or countryside.
• Unique Properties: Restored mills, lofts, and country houses are ideal for buyers seeking something different.

Property Prices & Trends in Côtes‑d’Armor in 2026

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,419 (April 2026)
• Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €3,781 (April 2026)
• Price trends: +1% over the last 12 months, +59% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Côtes‑d’Armor in 2026

• Average House Price in Saint‑Brieuc: €2,078 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Lannion: €2,436 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Dinan: €2,658 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro)

Considering Buying a Property in Côtes‑d’Armor?

• Brittany’s Wild Coast: Where the Pink Granite Coast (Perros-Guirec) meets medieval petites cités de caractère (Dinard, Tréguier), Côtes-d’Armor offers stone longères, seaside cottages, and village houses, often cheaper than Finistère or Morbihan.
• Rental Potential: With tourists drawn to the GR34 trails, Île de Bréhat, and Saint-Brieuc’s culture, properties here yield 6–9% annually, especially for restored farmhouses in the countryside.
• Prime Location: Saint-Brieuc Airport (1 hour to Paris), TGV to Paris (2 hours and 30 minutes), and proximity to the Channel Islands make it an ideal destination for second-home owners and those seeking a peaceful yet connected coastal retreat.
• Oceanic Climate: Mild summers (20–24°C) for sailing, coastal hikes, and seafood feasts, paired with cool winters (6–10°C).
• Breton Lifestyle: A region rich in maritime heritage, featuring oyster festivals, fest-noz dances and markets full of local produce.

Browse our Properties for Sale in Côtes‑d’Armor

Explore our selection of houses, village homes, villas and countryside properties for sale in the Côtes d'Armor area of Brittany. These real estate listings are updated weekly by our trusted local agents. Please get in touch with us to arrange property visits or to discuss your search criteria.