Uncover the charms of Herbignac, Loire-Atlantique, Pays de la Loire

This long loop passes through large wooded areas of oak and chestnut trees, including the Grand Val at the bottom of which flows Matz Creek. It leads to the Valley of Trévelo Creek, which separates the towns of Caden and Limerzel.

The area of Malansac extends from Rochefort-en-Terre (town listed as a "Petite Cité de Caractère"), to the Grées, a shale and slate-like strip that towers over the Valley of Arz. The Circuit des Ardoisières offers fantastic views but be careful; due to the presence of old open pit mines, it is recommended that you stay on the marked path. VTT marks n°5 blue

The name "Questembert" comes from the Breton word "Kisten Berh", which means "Land of Chestnuts". Near the centre of town, this trail takes you along the hollow ways towards the creek of Cohignac and then St John's Chapel. In springtime, asphodels bloom on the banks and in the woods, showing off their elongated stems and handsome spikes of white flowers. They are locally known as "popinettes", hence the name of the trail. From this trail, you can reach Berric by following the marked paths (3km). Yellow marks

This town is named after the sweet chestnut tree. In the Breton language, it is called Kisten Berh, which means “land of the chestnuts”. In the 12th century, the name “Questembert” was found in writing; however, over time, the spelling changed.

Rochefort-en-Terre is very lucky to have a rich architectural heritage. Thanks to the local government’s desire to maintain and protect the site, this village is now classified as a Petite Cité de Caractère (an award honouring the remarkable architectural heritage and landscape of small villages in France). Rochefort-en-Terre is also part of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages in France) and Villes Fleuris (an award recognising a town’s respect for the environment, protection of a social and community network, and quality of its tourist facilities) with four flowers thanks to the combined efforts by the community and residents. Starting from Place du Puits, take Rue des Scourtets, and then, Chemin des Douves, located to your right. Walk along the strongholds and fortifications built during the 14th and 16th centuries.

Awarded 4 flowers by Village Fleuri, the town of La Vraie-Croix is also known for winning the Grand Prix National du Fleurissement (an award given out every year to one or several villages in France with 4 flowers), and the Prix Européen du Fleurissement (for all of Europe). It is also invited to attend the Floralies International, a prestigious floral event held in Nantes in May 2014. La Vraie-Croix was formerly known as Langroez and used as a resting place for the Knights of Malta during the Crusades.

This trail is on the old railway track which makes it special.

This trail starts near the RN 171. This trail will take you to the “Calan” stream, it will charm you with its panoramic view.

To the north of Questembert, the town of Molac is perched on a hill overlooking the Valley of Arz. The town's architectural heritage reflects its history, which is thousands of years old. The trail heads toward the River Arz and takes the Voie Verte (Green Lane), the old railway. It crosses the Grées (shale-like hills) of Lindeul. Finally, it penetrates the vast forest of Lanvaux. Please follow the yellow marks.

This walking trail was created by students between the ages of 8 and 13 of the elementary school of Saint Omer de Blain and the middle school of Saint Laurent de Blain.

Buildings from the former 17th century Presbytery were restored and transformed into the town hall in 2007 and "Les Digitales" Art Centre in 2011. The Art Centre is a place for activities and exhibits. It displays different models of farming machinery from the collection of Mr Sevestre, a passionate farmer from Caden, and holds a museum presenting farming activities from yesterday and today with interviews from local farmers.

It was restored in the 18th century by the rector of Caden, Jean-Louis de la Houssaye. The date "1756" is written over the side door. It is one of the six friar chapels of Caden. The inside is decorated with 21th century frescos painted by a local artist representing landscapes of the surrounding countryside.

The first chapel was built by the monastic community of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem during the 12th century and under the control of Carentoir like the chapels of Gorvello, Molac and Guerno. It was restored in the 18th century and decorated with a Classical-style pediment on the main door.

Both the 16th century fountain and washhouse are made of regular granite surrounded by a small stone wall. The fountain looks like a small temple sitting large columns and topped with a domed roof. A small alcove was built for the Saint's statue.

Located on Place Gombaud and built in 1907 by the Union Régionaliste Bretonne (Breton Regionalist Union) for the 1000th anniversary of the death of Alain Le Grand (Alan Meur in Breton), King of Brittany. This 5-metre tall granite headstone commemorates the victory of this Breton leader over the Normans (vikings) in 890. On the western side, you can see the blade of a gladiator’s sword pointing downward, which symbolises the sword of great conqueror. Go back up Rue Lebrun et Malard (between the post office and bakery) and enter the cemetery. Inside, you will find Saint Michel Chapel.

This chapel was built in the mid 15th century, during the reign of the Duke of Brittany François I, where Saint Vincent Ferrier was believed to have preached on 3 March 1418 while staying in Questembert. It was founded by the lords of Rochefort, who had great power and influence in Questembert and surrounding areas at the time. To the left of the chapel, you will find a 15th century stone cross and rectangular sculpture, representing a processional banner. This type of Christian monument is called a “croix bannière” in French and typical to the region of Brittany. In front of the entrance, a large several century-old yew tree seems to protect the tombs of the parish rectors, including Father Mulot, co-founder of the Montfort Fathers congregation, who died during a mission in Questembert in 1749. The chapel was classified as a Historical Monument in 1922. Restored between 2006 and 2007, it is regularly open to the public (concerts, themed days, etc.). Things to discover nearby: At the end of Rue du Chanoine Niol, the old rectory, washhouse and fountain. The old 15th century rectory is a typical country-style and aristocratic residence of old France (private property). The rectory washhouse resembles a small version of Les Halles. The fountain, made up of three columns, is very unique. The fountain and Saint Martin washhouse are located at the end of Rue St-Martin and Rue de la Fontaine.

This chapel was built in the mid 15th century, during the reign of the Duke of Brittany François I, where Saint Vincent Ferrier was believed to have preached on 3 March 1418 while staying in Questembert. It was founded by the lords of Rochefort, who had great power and influence in Questembert and surrounding areas at the time. To the left of the chapel, you will find a 15th century stone cross and rectangular sculpture, representing a processional banner. This type of Christian monument is called a “croix bannière” in French and typical to the region of Brittany. In front of the entrance, a large several century-old yew tree seems to protect the tombs of the parish rectors, including Father Mulot, co-founder of the Montfort Fathers congregation, who died during a mission in Questembert in 1749. The chapel was classified as a Historical Monument in 1922. Restored between 2006 and 2007, it is regularly open to the public (concerts, themed days, etc.). Things to discover nearby: At the end of Rue du Chanoine Niol, the old rectory, washhouse and fountain. The old 15th century rectory is a typical country-style and aristocratic residence of old France (private property). The rectory washhouse resembles a small version of Les Halles. The fountain, made up of three columns, is very unique. The fountain and Saint Martin washhouse are located at the end of Rue St-Martin and Rue de la Fontaine.

Located on the former town square, this covered market was built in 1552 by Jérôme De Carné, Earl of Cohignac and creator of the fairs held in Questembert. By fate, it was restored in 1675 by a local entrepreneur named Estienne Charpentier (Estienne Carpenter in English). Les Halles were designed to cover, mark off and control trading areas. The marketplace was a great place to mingle and exchange goods. In the past, drapers, rope makers and shoemakers met here to sell their goods. This was the main activity during old country fairs. Traditional handicraft (canvas, wool, fine linens and leather) was very important in Questembert. Craftsmen having the same profession often lived in the same neighbourhood, even on the same street. Therefore, professional relationships were very easy to make. Streets were often named after certain professions, such as rue de la laine (wool street), rue de la tannerie (tannery street), etc. Les Halles, restored in 1997, have never been used as much as today. It holds a large market on Monday mornings and a market selling regional products on Wednesday evenings as well as flea markets, concerts and other cultural events. Les Halles was classified as a Historical Monument in 1922. Only four “historical” covered wooden markets have survived in the region of Brittany: Questembert and Le Faouët in Morbihan, Plouescat in Finistère and Clisson in Loire-Atlantique. Now, head towards Place de la Libération, and then Place Gombaud. On the other side of the roundabout, you will find the headstone of Alain le Grand, King of Brittany.

This building, known as Hôtel Belmont, has held the town’s Tourist Office since 1991. This private home with different beautiful finely crafted skylights dates back to the 15th and 16th century and always belonged to very rich families. It was restored in 2005. Take Rue Saint Michel, turn left, and enter the small garden, where you will find the turret of Hôtel Belmont.

Located on the former town square, this covered market was built in 1552 by Jérôme De Carné, Earl of Cohignac and creator of the fairs held in Questembert. By fate, it was restored in 1675 by a local entrepreneur named Estienne Charpentier (Estienne Carpenter in English). Les Halles were designed to cover, mark off and control trading areas. The marketplace was a great place to mingle and exchange goods. In the past, drapers, rope makers and shoemakers met here to sell their goods. This was the main activity during old country fairs. Traditional handicraft (canvas, wool, fine linens and leather) was very important in Questembert. Craftsmen having the same profession often lived in the same neighbourhood, even on the same street. Therefore, professional relationships were very easy to make. Streets were often named after certain professions, such as rue de la laine (wool street), rue de la tannerie (tannery street), etc.Les Halles, restored in 1997, have never been used as much as today. It holds a large market on Monday mornings and a market selling regional products on Wednesday evenings as well as flea markets, concerts and other cultural events. Les Halles was classified as a Historical Monument in 1922. Only four “historical” covered wooden markets have survived in the region of Brittany: Questembert and Le Faouët in Morbihan, Plouescat in Finistère and Clisson in Loire-Atlantique.Now, head towards Place de la Libération, and then Place Gombaud.On the other side of the roundabout, you will find the headstone of Alain le Grand, King of Brittany.

La Bigouden is a crêperie located between the sea and the Brière marshes, in Herbignac opposite the church. Caroline and David welcome you in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You can sample our speciality savoury buckwheat pancakes and our handmade wheat crêpes, made to order.

Whether with family, friends or even lovers, Lucie welcomes you to her pub all year round, with a warm and friendly atmosphere and a simple but quirky style! A wide choice of beers and cocktails and many themed evenings await you. Smiles, good humour and joie de vivre are the order of the day as soon as the doors open!

Restaurant, Fast-food (Burgers, Kebabs), on the spot or to take away.

La Roulotte en feu comes to your home to offer you pizzas cooked on the spot over a wood fire (Herbignac, Crossac, Assérac and Saint-Molf area). Orders by phone from 6pm.

Delivery and takeaway. Reservations by phone and on our website

Come and discover our generous cuisine, in a calm and pleasant setting. At "A Tavola", we're proud of our commitments: the quality and provenance of our produce, home-made cooking, traditional cuisine, friendly service and low prices to satisfy every appetite. Whether you're out and about and want to enjoy a meal with friends in the dining room or on the shady terrace (depending on the weather), whether you're in a group and want to choose a shared menu (we advise you to quote and order), whether your lunch break is short and your budget defined, whether you want to have lunch for two or in complete privacy, we'll do our utmost to meet your expectations by offering you (depending on availability) a table to your taste, efficient, friendly service and prices to suit you. A la carte or set menus, everything can be ordered in advance by telephone and served at the agreed time.

Beer and wine bar, cellar and delicatessen.

Situated in the heart of the Brière, this is a restaurant with a "Lyonnais bistro" feel. Monsieur Cochon offers generous cuisine with real wood-fired grills (the famous grilled knuckle of pork, home-made sausage, black pudding, sauerkraut with grilled cochonnailles, pork belly with calvados, rib of beef or the excellent andouillette) and other specialities as the menu changes with the seasons. For your business meals, with family or friends, or for personalised requests, we offer an "All-inclusive" package! We are also at your service by telephone or via our online form.

Welcome to P'tea Biscuit We'd like to welcome you to our tearoom and delicatessen shop, dedicated to home-made products from our region, with a range of loose tea and coffee in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Adélaïde, a chocolatier, and Angélique, a pastry chef, pool their skills to share their know-how. So we can meet many of your expectations: - You're invited to dinner and you don't want to arrive empty-handed, PERFECT we'll advise you on finding THE gourmet gift for your friends! - If you want to get away from it all, with family or friends, and enjoy a drink and a good pastry, we'll help you discover new flavours! - If you'd like to learn or discover the secrets of pastry-making and the mysteries of chocolate... for young and old, we're here for you.

Campsite with covered, heated swimming pool, located at the gateway to the Parc de Brière, 10 minutes from the beaches. Mobile homes with covered terrace by the week or weekend (minimum two nights, out of season).

The Leroux family welcomes you to their 2-star "Pré Vert" farm campsite, located on a shady, very quiet site near a small leafy wood, 400 metres from the farm (dairy and poultry production). You'll love the authenticity of this site, which has 15 tent pitches and 6 hook-ups, as well as sanitary facilities in a chalet. You can also take advantage of the nearby hiking and cycling trails, the sea 15 minutes away, the Brière Regional Nature Park and the Guérande peninsula. Eco-friendly extras - Eco-gestures: Washrooms supplied with well water Dual-flow toilets, flow reducers on taps Shower water heated by a system of pipes exposed to the sun Reduced lighting and use of low-energy bulbs Ecological cleaning products Selective sorting - Nature's side : A site left to its natural state, with extensive plant cover 0 pesticides No watering - Discovery activities Visits to the farm followed by a friendly drink

Close to both La Roche-Bernard and Guérande, in the heart of the countryside a few kilometres from the beaches lies Ker Rio. We have 3 charming rooms on offer, complete with all comforts you need and decorated with taste: 1 room on the ground floor: separate entrance, private bathroom, TV, kitchenette, put-me-up bed. 2 rooms on the 1st floor: separate shared bathroom and WC. Ideal for families or friends. Wi-Fi. Garden.

If you're travelling by motorhome on our country roads, stop off at a reception area set up on a farm.

This small château, dating back to the XIXth century is to be found nestled in wooded grounds of some 200 ha at the gateway to Brittany and the Parc de Brière. We have 3 rooms on offer, each richly decorated and featuring antique furniture and original fireplaces always lovingly adorned with a bouquet of fresh flowers. For your enjoyment we serve a hearty breakfast. Situated 16 km from Guérande.