Alternative ideas

Step off the beaten track and explore new horizons. Discover, or maybe rediscover, some of the hidden gems of our mysterious region. Ille-et-Vilaine has plenty of secrets in store…Psst…come this way! ⇓

DROP IN ON THE REALM OF ‘CHEVALIER ROLAND’

Woodland, meadows, a tranquil stream and cliffs up to 173 metres high… welcome to Saut-Roland. The ghost of Roland still hovers over this patchwork of scenery, providing a unique backdrop for a walk…

According to legend, Charlemagne’s nephew, Roland, rode through this area on his way home from fighting against the Saracens. Leaping from one rock to another, he dedicated his first two jumps to God and the Virgin Mary and negotiated them without a hitch. However, the third jump, dedicated to his wife, proved fatal and Roland fell to the bottom of the ravine.

Saut-Roland continues to harbour many secrets…

TAKE A STROLL THROUGH A PARK OF GIGANTIC SCULPTURES

A château, a lake, centuries old trees… Welcome to the Domaine du Château des Pères, 25 km south-east of Rennes. This large country estate of 70 hectares depicts local history and an architectural style typical of the 19th century.

It is a venue for numerous cultural events (exhibitions, plays, concerts, etc.) all year round. A 2 km discovery trail in the gardens and grounds takes visitors past monumental works made from different materials including stone, iron and wood.

The Château des Pères continues to harbour many secrets…

EXPLORE A MAGNIFICENT NATURAL ATTRACTION

Ile-aux-Pies (Magpie Island) is a superb place near Redon with exceptional scenery of rocky cliffs, marshland and moorland.

Plenty of footpaths run through the area which is popular with rock-climbers and nature lovers. It is ideal for canoeing, walking, cycling and mountain biking.

The Office de Tourisme at Redon offers three activity packages at Ile-aux-Pies featuring cycling, canoeing and a treetop adventure trail!

Ile-aux-Pies continues to harbour many secrets…

DISCOVER AN ANCIENT VIKING ENCAMPMENT

Saint-Suliac, a former fishing village on the Rance estuary, is classed as one of the « Loveliest Villages in France ». Stroll through its tiny lanes, known as « ruettes » and soak up the charm of this picturesque, unspoilt place.

Go up the hill to Mont Garrot for a great view of an ancient Viking encampment.

Saint-Suliac continues to harbour many secrets…

STOCK UP ON SPLENDID PANORAMIC VIEWS

Between Redon and Rennes, the river Vilaine, well-known for its curiosities, has some amazing places to see. It runs through delightful villages, towns with streets steeped in history and a wide range of scenery.

Its valley provides the starting point for numerous outings! An exceptional natural heritage waiting to be explored…

Vilaine Valley continues to harbour many secrets…