Michael Portillo’s breezy blend of history, travel, and sheer enthusiasm returns to BBC Two this Monday. In “Nantes to Lorient,” he chugs through the picturesque landscapes of Brittany and Normandy, two French regions with deep historical ties to Great Britain.
Starting in Nantes, once the beating heart of the independent Duchy of Brittany, Portillo encounters a whimsical world of giant mechanical creatures, a nod to the city’s connection to science fiction author Jules Verne. But it’s not all steampunk marvels. Portillo also visits the imposing castle of the dukes of Brittany, tracing the region’s rich and often turbulent history.
From the mainland, he hops over to the island of Gavrinis, home to a remarkably preserved burial chamber decorated with ancient carvings. At 6,000 years old, this Neolithic site offers a sobering reminder of the deep roots of human history in this region.
The episode’s final stop is Lorient, a city with a very different kind of historical significance. Here, Portillo explores a massive German submarine base, a key strategic location during World War II’s Battle of the Atlantic. It’s a stark shift from the medieval castles and prehistoric carvings, but a vital piece of the region’s complex story.
Throughout his journey, Portillo follows the trail of Duchess Anne, a formidable figure who fiercely defended Brittany’s independence. Expect history, quirky attractions, and Portillo’s trademark colorful attire when “Great Continental Railway Journeys” airs on Monday, March 31st at 6:30 PM on BBC Two.
