Discovering Beignon, Morbihan, Brittany

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Go and discover a village-centre that will know how to surprise you From the centre animated by the shops and its Sunday market, to its buildings show casing the use of local granite, you'll wander to original natural spaces. There are no signs along this itinerary. (The proposed circuits are given as an indication and do not take into account the possible evolution of the grounds or the environment. The use of these itineraries is therefore left to the individual and personal responsability of the users, the Office de tourisme disengages itself from any responsability as to the use of the maps and the eventual accidents that may occur on the given itineraries.)

Spend half a day horse riding and exploring the Brocéliade Forest!  Discover the legendary sites in this mythical forest with your guide and enjoy a picnic.  SPEND HALF A DAY HORSE RIDING AND EXPLORING THE BROCÉLIADE FOREST! Enjoy a horse riding excursion and discover the legendary sites in this mythical forest with your guide. Your excursion starts at the equestrian centre where you will leave in a small group. After a few hours of exploring the heart of nature, pause for a picnic that you will all share. This horse riding adventure is ideal for revitalising yourself all while discovering the fascinating surroundings of Merlin the Wizard.

Go horse riding in the heart of the mythic Brocéliande Forest! Spend one hour with your guide riding along the paths of the legendary sites. GO HORSE RIDING IN THE HEART OF THE MYTHIC BROCÉLIANDE FOREST! After leaving the equestrian centre, go on a one-hour horse ride and discover the local flora and fauna in the most famous forest in Brittany.  Witness nature flourishing in this magical forest with your small group as you appreciate the scenery of Neolithic standing stones and deer as described in Celtic and medieval stories and legends. Follow the trail of the Knights of the Round Table on this relaxing and original horse ride!

Spend a sensational hour at the Piloting School in Rennes. Accompanied by an instructor, take control of a tourist airplane! Spend a sensational hour at the Piloting School in Rennes and take control of a tourist airplane while accompanied by an instructor,  Make the most of this activity for two and soar through the air. Learn the theoretical basics of piloting a tourist airplane from your instructor. You will be taught how to taxi, take off, turn and land. Before taking off, you will learn all about the plane as explained by your teacher. Then, led by your pilot-guide, take turns sitting at the helm of the plane and taxi on the runway towards the take-off point. Once in the air, you will feel the thrill of flying through the clouds and take in splendid views of Brittany’s landscapes. Treat yourself by choosing this activity for two and have a sensational experience at the helm of a tourist airplane!

Accompanied by your instructor, spend 15 exciting minutes at the Piloting School in Rennes. You will immediately take control of a tourist airplane! Accompanied by your instructor, spend 15 exciting minutes at the Piloting School in Rennes. Then, you will immediately take control of a tourist airplane. Led by your pilot-guide, taxi on the runway towards the take-off point. At take-off time, the pilot will take the controls then let you continue going upwards. Once in the air, you will feel the thrill of flying through the clouds. You can even do some turns, ascents and descents. Take in splendid views of Brittany’s landscapes and enjoy the unique experience of being at the controls. Start your descent towards the runway where your instructor will take back the controls for a short while to land before letting you taxi towards the airport’s parking lot. Treat yourself to this sensational experience at the helm of a tourist airplane!

Spend an unforgettable hour at the Piloting School in Rennes. Take control of a tourist airplane with an instructor. Spend an unforgettable hour at the Piloting School in Rennes and take control of a tourist airplane while accompanied by an instructor. Make the most of this activity and soar through the air. Learn the theoretical basics of piloting a tourist airplane from your instructor. You will be taught how to taxi, take off, turn and land. Before taking off, you will learn all about the plane as explained by your teacher. Then, led by your pilot-guide, sit at the helm of the plane and taxi on the runway towards the take-off point. Once in the air, you will feel the thrill of flying through the clouds. Take in splendid views of Brittany’s landscapes and enjoy the unique experience of being at the controls. Treat yourself by choosing this activity and have a sensational experience at the helm of a tourist airplane!

A 17th century miller's house, restored using natural materials such as slate and lime, with a patio and wooded grounds beside the river Chère on the edge of Brittany. Boules area, rowing boat, canoe and bikes available. The 2 upstairs guest rooms each have an en-suite shower room with WC and antique furniture. Bedroom 1: double bed, single bed. Bedroom 2: double bed. Large character living room with fireplace. Additional facilities: internet access, DVD player, baby equipement, hairdryer, cot. 'Tables d'hôtes' evening meal available featuring local specialities and home-grown organic vegetables (please book beforehand). Le plus: rest and relaxation guaranteed.

Slate mining began around 1878 and finished around 1911. The largest quarry called "Guenfol" or "Blue Lake" had an above ground surface area of 3,500m2. 18 to 20 million slates were extracted per year by nearly 300 labourers. The site was then transformed and today known as "Park de Préhistoire" (Prehistoric Park).

Located below the castle and most “noble” houses, this old artisan town symbolically upholds the social hierarchy: the most important people (clergy, public figures and knights) lived on higher ground where as the lowly (tanners, potters, etc.) lived in the lower part of the city. Climb up to your right to Place Saint Michel. Take a look at Les Grées on your left.

Saint Michel de la Grêle Chapel dates back to the 17th century. It replaced the old Saint Michel Priory, which belonged to the Benedictine Abbey of Redon. Today, the chapel (renovated in the 20th century) is used to celebrate religious services on the feast day of Notre Dame de la Tronchaye (the Sunday following 15 August). Take a few steps back and turn left after the tree-lined alley. Take one of the many small streets of Rochefort. Immediately after, turn left towards Place des Halles.

Hills covered in schist used for building houses and making roof slates. Present in the towns of Pluherlin, Malansac and Rochefort-en-Terre, slate quarries were used from the 13th to early 20th century. There is a great deal of slate located in the village of Rochefort-en-Terre. Today, Les Grées is considered a protected area. You will find Saint Michel Chapel at the end of Place Saint Michel.

As the town’s main square starting from the 17th century, Place des Halles has long been one of the most important places in the city thanks to its economic role (U-shaped covered market used for fairs and markets). It was also used for celebrations and events. To the right of the market is Hôtel Burban, a former 17th century seigniorial prison; to the left, Hôtel Le Pélican, formerly known as Auberge Lecadre, which hosted many painters including Alfred Klots in the late 19th century. The town hall is located in the front of the hotel and decorated with bicentennial wisteria every summer. Go down Rue Candré, located next to the town hall, to Porte de l’Étang.

Admire this turret with oriel windows on this double house, which remarkably combines Gothic and Breton Renaissance styles. Continue towards Place du Puits.

During the 12th century, the castle and city were built on this rocky spur, called “Roche Fort” (large rock). From then on, the place and family were both named “Rochefort”. In the 14th century, the Rochefort family no longer had any heirs and, therefore, married into the Rieux family. The site and feudal castle thus belonged to the Rieux Rocheforts. It was under this family’s reign, especially under Jean IV de Rieux Rochefort, that the city began to thrive. Jean IV, like several other Breton lords, was opposed to the annexation of Brittany by the Kingdom of France. Nonetheless, Charles VIII commanded to destroy all Breton castles, including Rochefort, after winning the battle of St-Aubin-du-Cormier. However, Jean IV was the guardian of Anne of Brittany, who married Charles VIII and became the Queen of France. Therefore, Charles VIII granted Rochefort 100,000 gold coins, which allowed him to rebuild his castle, surround it with strong fortifications and bring canons into the church. The castle was then destroyed during the French Revolution. It was not until the 20th century that the American painter, Alfred Klots, bought the ruins and turned the castle’s old outbuildings into luxurious apartments

During the 12th century, the castle and city were built on this rocky spur, called “Roche Fort” (large rock). From then on, the place and family were both named “Rochefort”. In the 14th century, the Rochefort family no longer had any heirs and, therefore, married into the Rieux family. The site and feudal castle thus belonged to the Rieux Rocheforts. It was under this family’s reign, especially under Jean IV de Rieux Rochefort, that the city began to thrive. Jean IV, like several other Breton lords, was opposed to the annexation of Brittany by the Kingdom of France. Nonetheless, Charles VIII commanded to destroy all Breton castles, including Rochefort, after winning the battle of St-Aubin-du-Cormier. However, Jean IV was the guardian of Anne of Brittany, who married Charles VIII and became the Queen of France. Therefore, Charles VIII granted Rochefort 100,000 gold coins, which allowed him to rebuild his castle, surround it with strong fortifications and bring canons into the church. The castle was then destroyed during the French Revolution. It was not until the 20th century that the American painter, Alfred Klots, bought the ruins and turned the castle’s old outbuildings into luxurious apartments. Continue walking along the fortifications and go down the steps towards the Vieux Bourg (Old Town).

Stay in Rochefort-en-Terre, in the Heart of Brittany: Accommodation & Must-See Attractions Rochefort-en-Terre, ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages in France," is a charming destination in Brittany, perfect for a getaway blending nature, heritage, and local craftsmanship. With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque ambiance, this village captivates visitors seeking authenticity and relaxation. Accommodation in Rochefort-en-Terre – Domaine de Kerioche The Domaine de Kerioche – Terres de France welcomes you in a peaceful and green setting, surrounded by nature. The residence offers fully equipped and comfortable accommodations, ideal for family vacations, friendly getaways, or business seminars in the heart of Brittany. Located near the historic center of Rochefort-en-Terre and the Moulin Neuf Lake, it is the perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor activities. Places of Interest The Village of Rochefort-en-Terre: Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, known for its flower-adorned houses, local artisans, and medieval charm. Rochefort-en-Terre Castle: A medieval fortress turned into an artistic residence, offering stunning views over the town. Moulin Neuf Lake: A natural area perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, pedal boating, and tree-top adventure courses. La Gacilly: Discover the artisan village and its famous outdoor photography festival. The Carnac Alignments: Experience Brittany’s prehistoric heritage with these impressive megalithic stones, located less than an hour away. Book your stay at Domaine de Kerioche at Rochefort en Terre and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Rochefort-en-Terre and its surroundings!

The stopover gîte welcomes pilgrims to the Calvairienne convent. Redon, a stopover on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, is at the crossroads of the three Breton routes and the Mont Saint-Michel itinerary. Comprising: a dormitory, a living room with a dining area, sanitary facilities with a shower. Reservations must be made with the cultural department of Redon town hall. Pilgrims must arrive before 5.15pm.