Nantes to Brest Canal by Bike
360 km along the towpath, through flower-lined locks, Broceliande forest, and Breton hedgerows.
Five days by bike along the Nantes-Brest Canal, in the heart of inland Brittany. The flat, shaded towpath links Nantes to Redon, Josselin and its fairytale château, Pontivy and Carhaix. It's peaceful touring far from the tourist coasts: locks, forests, Breton villages and abbeys pace the stages. The route suits families and occasional cyclists perfectly — no notable climbs. Reckon on 40 to 60 km a day. Spring and summer offer the best conditions; some sections may be packed earth, so check after heavy rain. A secret, green and riverine Brittany to discover along the water.
Practical info
- Stops
- 7
- Duration
- 5 days
- Transport
- 🚲 Bike
- Distance
- ≈ 270 km
- Best time
- Spring and summer
Itinerary
- 1
Nantes
Depart de l'Erdre, la plus belle riviere de France selon Francois Ier.
- 2
Redon
Carrefour fluvial entre Vilaine et canal, port de plaisance anime.
- 3
Josselin
Chateau des Rohan dominant le canal, basilique Notre-Dame du Roncier.
- 4
Pontivy
Ville napoleonienne au confluent du Blavet et du canal.
- 5
Carhaix-Plouguer
Ancienne Vorgium romaine, terre des Vieilles Charrues.
- 6
Chateauneuf-du-Faou
Surplombant l'Aulne canalise, paysages de la montagne Noire.
- 7
Brest
Arrivee a la rade de Brest, Oceanopolis et pont de Recouvrance.
