Rives de Vilaine - FérelRives de Vilaine - Férel
©Rives de Vilaine - Férel|Alexandre Lamoureux

The banks of the Vilaine

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Between estuary and bocage, the banks of the Vilaine reveal another facet of the Presqu’île: peaceful villages, lush greenery and a gentle way of life.

a setting to explore and taste

From the ocean inland, the Vilaine flows through three emblematic communes: Pénestin, Camoël and Férel, each revealing a unique face of the river. The Arzal dam sets the pace for the passage of water and visitors, while the banks offer a foretaste of adventure and discovery.

At the mouth of the Vilaine, Pénestin, a commune in the Morbihan department, symbolically marks the entrance to the Brittany region. The town lives to the rhythm of the river and the sea, with the port of Tréhiguier the beating heart of local mussel farming. Mussel farmers cultivate the famous bouchot mussels in the pure, oxygenated waters of the estuary, giving them a unique iodised flavour.

Not far away, La Roche-Bernard rises up with its cliffs and impressive views over the river, an ideal vantage point for a break or a memorable photo. Here, nature is experienced to the full: every path, every diversions invites you to explore, walk or simply enjoy the air and breathtaking scenery.

Water sports on the Vilaine

The Vilaine is the perfect place to get out on the water. Canoeing, kayaking and paddle-boarding allow you to explore its meandering waters at your own pace, while the ports of Pénestin and Camoël offer ideal stopovers for sailing and fishing enthusiasts. Between sporting activities, moments of relaxation along the water and sunsets on the banks, the river can be experienced intensely while remaining a soothing refuge for nature lovers and river landscape enthusiasts.

discoveries on foot or by bike

Hiking and cycling enthusiasts will be delighted by the paths that wind along the river and through the surrounding countryside. A variety of routes alternate between forests, meadows and picturesque little ports, with the Vilaine always the common thread.

Every diversions offers a breathtaking view, a hidden bench or a secret spot to savour the tranquillity of the surroundings. Whether you walk a few kilometres or set off on a long cycle loop, the experience is always an invitation to reconnect with nature. Take time out for a break… the landscaped areas invite you to enjoy a picnic, in front of the boats gliding along the water, in a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Explore an unspoilt region

The Branzais marshes, located in Pénestin and owned by the Morbihan Department, offer a peaceful and relaxing setting. A veritable mosaic of landscapes combining fresh and salt water, this site of European interest has a wealth of habitats to offer.

Along the way, visitors will discover a remarkable biodiversity of plants and animals. In particular, the natural meadows provide a haven for pollinating insects such as butterflies, wild bees and bumblebees. Essential for the reproduction of flowering plants, they help to balance ecosystems and maintain the nearby market garden crops.