Le faou, Finistère, Bretagne

This part of Porzay rises up to hide the Aulne Valley and Châteaulin. You can’t miss this new permanent trail at the foot of the wind turbines just after the town of Cast. You’re no longer on the coast, you’re at the foot of the mountains and the forests that go with it (Bois de St Gildas). From the start, you’ll be aware of fantastic local heritage, including St Gildas chapel and its fountain. This trail through the woods beckons you to enjoy a wonderful walk with your family, which might not be relaxing for your legs, but will certainly relax your mind.

This walking circuit beckons you to come and explore Ster Goanez Valley. Follow various sunken pathways that thread their way through the wooded landscape. You’ll reach the old Rosporden-Plouescat railway, where the train that ran along the rails was nicknamed ‘the Spud Train’ because of all the potatoes it used to transport.

Paths to discover : Kerlaz church, Nevet woods, St Even fountain. Discovery route : stages of sacred places around Douarnenez.

Large car park near the old train station of Plouescat / Rosporden. You’ll start your circuit by passing in front of the archaeological site ‘Ti Ar Boudiged’, with a prehistoric stone slab sating back to 3000BC, before following part of the ancient Roman Road. Further on, a pretty stone bridge takes you across the River Elez. Next, there’s Ménez Du hill, from where you can see the crests of the Arrée Mountains, from Roch Trédudon and as far as Mont St Michel, before following part of a former railway that will take you back to Brennilis.

Large car park near the old train station of Plouescat / Rosporden. This circuit is shaped like a number 8. Unbeatable views towards the southern slopes of the Arrée Mountains, passing near the drinking-water reservoir in Brennilis, followed by Kerelcun and its magnificent restored mill. After crossing the Lorient-Roscoff axis at Coat Mocun bridge, this old Roman Road will lead you to the springs of Roudoudour and the mystical mashlands of Yeun Elez. In Kervéguénet, visit the museum of Youdig, a miniature village from the 16th century, with gites and an inn. Finally, you can head back to Brennilis, where you began.

Park in the centre of La Feuillée. The old Rosporden/Plouescat railway line covered 132 km and 24 stations, and the ‘Train Patate’ (Spud train) ran along these rails from 1912 to 1932 transporting passengers and goods, often including a lot of potatoes – hence its name. It will take you to the top of the Arrée Mountains, from where you can follow several sunken pathways, all as beautiful as each other, until you head back to La Feuillée.

A walk around the lands that once belonged to Conomor, a medieval ruler also known as the Breton Bluebeard, who fought Juduël in a bloody battle at Brank-Hallec in 554AD. In more recent times, this area has been famous for Trédudon-le-Moine, France’s first Resistance village.

In the heart of the Black Mountains, the Penn ar Pont circuit will take you to Nantes-Brest canal, an integral part of Brittany’s history. You’ll notice the remains of a slate quarry, whose tunnels are now home to some of the largest bats in Brittany, the Greater Horseshoe Bat. You’ll pass two locks before leaving the tow path and heading in to the countryside around Châteauneuf, with its woodlands and streams. The path then joins up with another trail ‘In the footsteps of Paul Sérusier’, which is dedicated to the painter who lived in Châteauneuf du Faou. You’ll cross a street named after him and discover this painter’s ’green valley’.

In the heart of the Black Mountains, the Penn ar Pont circuit will take you to Nantes-Brest canal, an integral part of Brittany’s history. You’ll notice the remains of a slate quarry, whose tunnels are now home to some of the largest bats in Brittany, the Greater Horseshoe Bat. You’ll pass two locks before leaving the tow path and heading in to the countryside around Châteauneuf, with its woodlands and streams. The path then joins up with another trail ‘In the footsteps of Paul Sérusier’, which is dedicated to the painter who lived in Châteauneuf du Faou. You’ll cross a street named after him and discover this painter’s ’green valley’.

This walking circuit through Queffleuth Valley offers the chance to see how the landscapes have evolved since the 19th century, as well as how they’ve been used. Follow in the footsteps of Potic the Pilhaouër (the rag-and-bone man) through the Arrée Mountains. Along the way, you’ll discover mills, rivers, woodlands and irrigated meadows. This walk includes 6 sections that allow you to learn as you walk with your family. Here, everything possible is done to protect the biodiversity of flora, fauna and wetlands. You can ask for the booklet of this walk at Tourist Offices throughout Morlaix and its surrounding towns.

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!

Stay in Audierne, Bay of Douarnenez: Accommodation and Must-See Attractions Audierne, nestled in the stunning Bay of Douarnenez, is the perfect destination for a getaway combining nature, relaxation, and exploration. This Breton gem will captivate you with its authentic charm and variety of activities. Accommodation in Audierne Audierne offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets: seaside hotels with breathtaking views, cozy guesthouses, and traditional cottages. There are also vacation rentals ideal for families or groups of friends. Must-See Attractions Bay of Douarnenez: Perfect for swimming, fishing, or boat trips. Audierne Harbor: A great spot to sample local specialties and enjoy the lively quayside. Esquibien Lighthouse: Enjoy stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Pointe du Van: A natural site with breathtaking panoramas. The Fishing Museum: Learn about the region’s maritime history. Book your stay in Audierne and experience an unforgettable getaway in the Bay of Douarnenez!

The Castle of la Hunaudaye was built around 1220 by Olivier de Tournemine then rebuilt at the beginning of the 15th century. During the Middle-Ages, la Hunaudaye was one of the most important seigneury of Penthièvre and its castle established the power of its owners, the Tournemines. Said Tournemines were also the lords of Plancoët and Montafilan (Corseul). Even if the Arguenon River can't be seen from the top of the towers, it is close by, 2km away. The castle was actually built to protect the banks of the Arguenon River and protect Penthièvre on its west border. In the area, the roads allowed the merchants to take part in the local fairs (St-Jean). The mills along the river allowed farmers to grind grain and trample clothes. Today, the old medieval roads are paths to access the fields, the fairs have disappeared and the mills wer flooded by the construction of Pleven dam. In spite of the French Revolution's destructions and the castle being turned into a stone quarry, the defensive system remains imposing. The castle was recently restaured making its visit much agreeable.

This village already existed during the Middle-Ages. It was kept busy by the markets held every Monday. The Tournemine family had an auditory there, a building to give justice in during the market day. Today there are no traces of this medieval past, but the traces of the old window of the old chapel. This chapel was destroyed during the 1950's since it threatened to fall down. During works old graves were found around the chapel.

This delightful area allows you to enjoy the quietness of the lake. You can picnic, fish or practise rowing here.

The small manor Des Portes is rebuilt in the 19th century by the Danican family, St-Malo shipowners. In 1978 it becomes the municipal town-hall after having been bought a few years earlier. The park, surrounded by high stone walls is a leisure area nowadays. It houses a few children's games and an agreable camping site, most of the year. It is also a place where the flowers abound, the village actually obtained a regional prize for its flowering and is proud to have the 1flower label.

The jardin de curé (kitchen garden) is made up of four square vegetable beds edged with boxwood (sign of eternity). Beds were also placed along stone walls. Fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, and medicinal plants are all grown together in order make the most out of these kitchen gardens. A learning garden was also set up here. Things to discover nearby: Public fountain At the edge of town, the fountain takes on a very monumental aspect. It is surrounded by a stone wall. Its basin is sheltered underneath a platform supported by four small columns.

The story and name of the town are linked with this tall chapel, which was originally built to house a relic of Christ's real cross. The chapel is classified as a Historical Monument.

The chapel is the town’s most unusual monument and located above a public road. Legend has it that a knight, coming back from the Crusades, carried a real piece of Christ’s cross. After stopping in the village of Hôpital, the knight fell asleep at the foot of a hawthorn. When he woke up, he realised that the piece of the cross had been stolen from him. He left the village without ever finding it. Shortly after, the people of the village noticed, at the top of a hawthorn, a crow’s nest lit with a supernatural light: the light came from the piece of the cross. The piece was brought to the church; however, it disappeared the following night. It was found once again in the crow’s nest. The people decided to build a chapel here with the choir located in the same place where the fragment of Christ’s cross had been found. A reliquary cross holding the piece of cross is kept inside the southern transept. The granite chapel dates back to the 16th century; however, it was restored at the end of the 20th century (1974-1986) by Bâtiments de France. The chapel, along with the crypt, were both classified as Historical Monuments in 1926. The chapel was built above a one-way public road, going from the square towards the street. This particular location allows pilgrims to pass underneath the relic situated in the upper chapel. An archway, located on the eastern side, overlooks a type of vaulted crypt lit by two stained glass windows. The altar from Saint Just chapel (located about 3km away from the village) is situated here, along with a statue of Mary, font and lintel. On the opposite side, a similar archway holds a beautiful portal made of four pointed arches. Previously, this solemn entrance lead to a staircase, which climbed to the upper floor. The chapel also has another defining feature: two staircases on each side of the upper chapel, allowing pilgrims to easily come and venerate the relic. The panelled vault is painted sky blue and dotted with gold stars. The choir, marked off by a wrought iron gate, is completely covered with carved wooden panels. The altar has the same decorative design. The pews are covered in plant motifs. The entire decor was created by Rector Tanguy, who also did all of the church’s woodwork. The two stained glass windows on either side of the choir illustrate the legend of the relic in the nest and the reliquary of La Vraie-Croix. Turn around and you can see the reliquary cross kept inside the southern transept. It contains a piece of Christ’s cross. It is only 20cm high; however, it is a true cross-shaped masterpiece made of bronze and silver with a wooden core.

The building situated in front of the chapel is the old rectory. Here, Rector Tanguy set up a carpentry workshop where he made the woodwork for the current church (1891-1892). Once connected to the chapel, the building now holds the multimedia library, renovated in 2012 with a new green roof, which overlooks the adjacent jardin de curé (kitchen garden).

Welcome to the only commerce of the village. This artisanal crêperie, certified "crêperie gourmande" distinguishes itself by an authentic cuisine, exclusively realised from fresh products by the hostess : artisan crêpier. Her original preparations, the quality of the setting and the warm welcome makes this crêperie one of the best of the area. Two dining rooms and a south facing terrasse. Some specialities: galette with scallops and leeks fondue, crêpes with caramelised apple, salter butter caramel and vanilla ice cream, kig-ha-farz (to order, some Sundays) Details on : www.creperiesucrésalé.monsite.orange.fr

Plancoët was the safest ford down on the ria. It is also there that the strength of the river could be used. As early as 1223, writings mention mills, like those you can see on each side of the bridge, turned into houses today.

Plancoët is also a port at the back of a ria. In the middle of the 19th century, the light boats were numerous to dock there and load or unload grains, apples, wood, « marne » ou « tangue » of the sea (mud to spread on the fields, used as a fertiliser on the crops) The arrival of the train in 1879 meant its decline.

Going down the steps you arrive in a valley away from the main road. In Chateaubriand's time, these houses were the only ones in the hamlet. Nazareth district was an craftemen's district. The façades gave out on the street; the shop was held at the ground floor (the old shop windows can be made out on the façades) and the people lived on the first floor. At the back was a back-shop, a work-shop, sometimes an oven, a garden for the food missing and at the bottom of the valley, water, the essential element to every and any craft. "My grand-mother lived in the only street of the hamlet de l'Abbaye, a pretty small house of which the gardens went down in terraces to a valley and at the end of which a small fountain, surrounded by willow trees, could be found. (extract from Memories of my Life)

When on the Landouar square, go up on the left of the Grande Rue and go back to the office. The Grande Rue, (Main Street), was, for a long time, the only way called “rue”; the other were paths or roads. On this main road, rare houses show only their façades. Right or left the “rangées” (rows of houses) are aligned. At the end of the Impasse du Paradis (Heaven’s dead end) you’ll meet Saint Christopher, protector of the travelers. This granite statue from the 15th century proves how long he was celebrated in Jaguen territory.

Located in the historic part of town this crêperie has traditional cuisine on offer: crêpes, galettes and salads.

Located on the port of Piriac the staff of La Vigie extends a warm welcome to you to this restaurant with its pleasant setting and rich colours. La brasserie La Vigie offers traditional refined cuisine made from fresh ingredients which you can savour in one of our two dining rooms with a sea view or from the terrace which overlooks the port. Discover our menu whose specialities change according to the season from seafood in the summer to ‘la tête de veau sauce gribiche’ in winter. Our not to be missed ‘choucroute de poissons de La Vigie’ (sauerkraut served with several different types of fish) is available all year round! You can choose your individual dishes from the main menu or opt for one of our set menus. Every day a different starter and main dish is on offer! Choices inspired by the talent of our chef! Convivial moments to be shared by all, couples, with friends or the whole family – we are proud to be members of the charter ‘famille plus’.

Opening 30/04/2020 > 30/09/2020 Lovers of nature, water activities, the ocean, and tranquillity will be right in their element at Huttopia Douarnenez campsite, ideally located at the tip of Brittany. Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views from the pool over Douarnenez bay.

Stay in Audierne, Bay of Douarnenez: Accommodation and Must-See Attractions Audierne, nestled in the stunning Bay of Douarnenez, is the perfect destination for a getaway combining nature, relaxation, and exploration. This Breton gem will captivate you with its authentic charm and variety of activities. Accommodation in Audierne Audierne offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets: seaside hotels with breathtaking views, cozy guesthouses, and traditional cottages. There are also vacation rentals ideal for families or groups of friends. Must-See Attractions Bay of Douarnenez: Perfect for swimming, fishing, or boat trips. Audierne Harbor: A great spot to sample local specialties and enjoy the lively quayside. Esquibien Lighthouse: Enjoy stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Pointe du Van: A natural site with breathtaking panoramas. The Fishing Museum: Learn about the region’s maritime history. Book your stay in Audierne and experience an unforgettable getaway in the Bay of Douarnenez!

The small manor Des Portes is rebuilt in the 19th century by the Danican family, St-Malo shipowners. In 1978 it becomes the municipal town-hall after having been bought a few years earlier. The park, surrounded by high stone walls is a leisure area nowadays. It houses a few children's games and an agreable camping site, most of the year. It is also a place where the flowers abound, the village actually obtained a regional prize for its flowering and is proud to have the 1flower label.

This area by the lake is heaven for fishermen, numerous to come to tickle black-basses and pikes. Everything is laid out: parking-lot for cars and recreational vehicles, picnic tables, bridges and wild landscapes.

The sports field (foot-ball, tennis...), strawberry fields and a camper-van area can be found there.

Take the pedestrian crossing towards Célac pond. Walk around it on the left and climb up towards the campsite entrance. Go straight until you come to the Fountain of Hulo, further down the RD. Go around the campsite and continue through the moorland of Kerjumais. Cross RD1 towards the playing fields of Galinio. Continue close to the orchard and go down through the woods via a nice hollow way.

After the Plage des Haas, the costal path follows the abbey’s park. A gate allows you to access this private property and discover its remarkable edifice. History and legend tell us that in the 5th century, two twin monks, Jacut and Guéthenoc, arrived on this peninsula called « Landoac » looking for a fitting place to create a hermitage. A Benedictine monastery was established there and had a great influence on the region’s development and evolution until the French Revolution. Sold as Bien National (National Good), sold again many times, the abbey knows many vicissitudes and different uses (Border guard caserns, home to a wealthy foreign family...). In 1875, the monastery’s ruins are bought by the Congrégation des Sœur de l’Immaculée: a religious order from St-Méen-le-Grand (Ille-et-Vilaine), they’ll turn it into a nursing home for the nuns and a free school for the children of the area. The restoration starts right away. To finance the school, the nuns host, firstly the British tourists who came, under doctor’s orders, to take sea water and hot algae baths. They stream in right from 1876. That’s the start of the “guesthouse”. Along the years, the summer holiday goers keep growing in numbers; the nuns develop the hotel capacities of the Abbey and diversify the activities and the hosting: the Abbey is now a guesthouse and a high place of cultural and spiritual encounters. Please respect the environment and the quietness of the residents.

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!