La Grande Ourse: Nature Escape in Mesquer, Loire-Atlantique

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

The construction of Saint Pierre Church began in 1863 by Father Gomaud. However, it was not until 33 years later that the structure was completed, finishing with the bell tower. The church was built on the ruins of the ancient Saint Martin du Vertou Church. With beautiful architectural lines and an impressive appearance, the 55-metre bell tower can be seen from neighbouring parishes. Inside, the choir is outfitted with remarkable woodwork, an enormous high altar and organ loft made by the Debierre workshops in Nantes. Go back up to Place René Mulot. Here, you are in front of the Les Halles marketplace.

Once upon a time the forge echoed to the sound of Loïc’s grandfather’s hammer…today it is the mouthwatering aromas which escape from the restaurant’s kitchen. It is here in rue d’Aha that your hosts Isabelle and Ludovic look forward to the pleasure of inviting you to their restaurant to savour their delectable specialities.

Bohème Sarrasine, your very own ‘crêperie’ at home. I’ll come to your home and prepare some delicious crêpes/galettes made from organic locally sourced ingredients just for you! At your service for all your business and leisure events.

Located on the port at Kercabellec, La Yole has on offer galettes, ‘crêpes’, salads, ice-creams

In our family run crêperie we have the following on offer: Organic buckwheat flour galettes – ‘tradition Bretagne’, ‘crêpes’ made from organic wheat flour. Moules de bouchot – mussels farmed on wooden poles – from the bay of Kercabellec (availability subject to the season), artisanal ciders from Le Morbihan – Regional wines. A selection of teas and coffee blended, roasted/ground in Guérande.

Traditional cuisine and pizzeria. Pizzas to take away. Details of the days we are open at www.lebelemquimiac.fr

Open from 01/04 to 31/10. Motor Home : 6€/per night

All year round. Free access. Parking forbidden.

Set in wooded green site of some 17 ha, the Holiday Village at Mesquer has fully equipped chalets on offer (108; 25 to 45 m2 which accommodate 4 to 6 people) as well as our novelty for 2017 35 Maasaï Pagan Lodges! (25 m2 suitable for 4 people). All have every comfort you could wish for and are suitable for your holidays with family or friends.

House for 4 people. Independant kitchen. TV, Coffee maker, Microwave, Combined-freezing, Private laundry, Dishwasher. Independant bedroom : 1 bed of 140cm, Independant bedroom : 2 beds of 90cm. Terrace, Garden, Barbecue. Parking is private.