Guide to Ille-et-Vilaine and Properties in Department 35

Ille-et-Vilaine is a department of France located in the northwestern region of Brittany. It was established during the French Revolution in 1790, and is one of the original 83 departments. The department (number 35) was created from a portion of the Brittany province and borders the departments of Manche, Mayenne, Maine-et-Loire, Loire-Atlantique, Morbihan, and Côtes-d'Armor. The department is named after its two primary rivers, the Ille and the Vilaine, which meet in Rennes, the vibrant capital of the department and the region. The department's landscape is moderately elevated above sea level. It features many hills, with the central part having a dense network of tributaries to the Ille or the Vilaine around the large Rennes basin.

Explore the Ille et Vilaine & Properties in the Area

Agricultural Riches

Ille-et-Vilaine is an affluent agricultural area located in the northwest of the department, near the Rance River. The basin is known for its rich and fertile soil, ideal for growing crops. The department also boasts numerous forests and rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and canoeing.

Cultural Heritage and Historic Sites

In addition to its natural beauty, Ille-et-Vilaine is also renowned for its rich historical heritage and distinctive culture. The department has many historical sites and monuments, including castles, churches, and museums, which offer a glimpse into its fascinating past. Its cultural heritage is also reflected in its festivals, traditions, and cuisine, which are influenced by both French and Breton cultures.

Key Information about the Ille-et-Vilaine (35)

Main City/Prefecture: Rennes
Nearest Airport: Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport
Population: Around 1.1 million (as of the latest census)
Area: 6,775 sq. kilometres and 2,615 sq. miles
Landmark: Mont-Saint-Michel (shared with Manche), a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 3 million, captivated by its historic cities, coastlines and cultural festivals.

Types of Properties for Sale in Ille-et-Vilaine

Ille-et-Vilaine is a picturesque department that offers a unique mix of beauty, history and culture, making it an excellent destination for travellers seeking an authentic 'Breton' experience. From Rennes' medieval streets to tranquil villages and rural hamlets, the area features a charming variety of properties — including historic village houses, renovated farmhouses, modern villas, classic stone properties and chic apartments.

Most Common Property Styles

Longères & Farmhouses: Traditional Breton homes and farmhouses, often renovated, with generous space and outbuildings.
Maisons de Maîtres & Mansions: Elegant period properties with character, ideal for a prestigious home or investment.
Traditional Houses: Charming village homes with slate roofs and authentic Breton features.
Contemporary Houses: Modern homes with open-plan living and energy-efficient designs, in town or countryside.
Apartments: Stylish city apartments in Rennes and other towns, from modern builds to period conversions.

Property Prices in Ille-et-Vilaine (35) in 2025

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,479 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €4,146 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
Price trends: +7% over the last 12 months, +45% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Ille-et-Vilaine in 2025

Average House Price in Rennes: €4,189 per sq. metre
Average House Price in Saint-Malo: €4,234 per sq. metre
Average House Price in Fougères: €2,043 per sq. metre

(source: Le Figaro - October 2025)

Why Buy a Property in Ille-et-Vilaine?

Brittany’s Golden Balance: Ille-et-Vilaine features medieval Saint-Malo, the Forêt de Rennes, and the stunning Côte d’Émeraude, with stone longères, villas, and maisons de Maitres, often more affordable than Finistère.
Strong Rental Demand: Tourists attracted to Mont-Saint-Michel’s bay, Dinard’s beaches, and Rennes’ culture boost property yields of 6–9%, especially near Cancale, the Oyster Capital of Brittany.
Prime Location: Rennes Airport (1h to Paris), the TGV (1h25m), and its close proximity to Normandy make it perfect for second-home owners and those seeking a lively yet peaceful base in Brittany.
Temperate Climate: Mild summers (20–25°C) for sailing, hiking the GR34, and oyster tasting, with cool winters (5–10°C).
Authentic Breton Lifestyle: A region of maritime and rural traditions featuring seafood festivals, fest-noz evenings, and markets with local produce. It combines coastal beauty, historic charm, and community spirit, ideal for a vibrant Breton life.