Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Marie - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Marie include a variety of historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic pathways. The region features ancient megalithic structures and historic waterways that once served as vital trade routes. Visitors can explore a blend of cultural heritage and natural landscapes, offering diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Marie
- The most popular attractions is Alignments du Moulin, a man-made and natural monument featuring ancient menhirs. These 5000-year-old stone…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Redon
Highlight • Settlement
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Towpath along the Vilaine
Highlight • Other
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Towpath on the Nantes-Brest canal
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Yves Rocher House, La Gacilly
Highlight • Monument
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Alignments du Moulin
Highlight • Monument
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In 832, Conuvoion, a Breton monk, founded the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur in Redon with the support of the Carolingian Emperor Louis the Pious. A small rural community slowly grew up around the abbey. During the Middle Ages, the town benefited from its location on the Vilaine River, as trade goods could be transported upstream to Redon on ocean-going vessels. There, the goods were transshipped and transported further on inland waterway barges towards Rennes, the capital of Brittany. In the 19th century, Redon experienced another period of prosperity with the construction of the Nantes-Brest Canal. Even today, the old shipowners' houses and the large harbor basin bear witness to its history as a trading port.
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Redon has managed to retain its quiet, small-town character, despite its intense activity (and traffic). Following the floods of 2024, the campsite is closed. The pedestrian street is pleasant and not overcrowded with shops. Just what you need. A visit to the port is also a pleasant experience.
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A "treidelpfad" (towpath) that runs alongside the river or canal's bed was an essential part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Before ships could be powered by motors, horses walked along the bank, pulling the boat against the current. This was called "treideln" (towing), and this is how the towpaths got their name, which has been passed down to this day. Where these paths, located directly along the bank, have been preserved, they are popular with hikers and cyclists.
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Very nice hike. Please note, the indicated parking lot no longer exists, you must park near the football stadium
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Maison Yves Rocher is located in La Gacilly. Yves Rocher himself was from this picturesque village in Morbihan. There is a shop, a cafeteria and a museum. 15 minutes away is the Yves Rocher ecological spa hotel “La Grée des Landes”.
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About 5000 years old row of stones with good explanation.
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This path which runs along the banks of the Vilaine was built in the 18th century. At the time, it allowed barges to be pulled, most often by horses. It now allows you to cycle or walk in complete peace of mind!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Sainte-Marie?
Sainte-Marie and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Alignments du Moulin, an ancient megalithic site featuring 5000-year-old stone rows. The historic town of Redon, located at the crossroads of western waterways, offers elegant half-timbered houses and a rich trading port history. Additionally, the Towpath along the Vilaine, built in the 18th century, provides a glimpse into past transport infrastructure.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Sainte-Marie area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Alignments du Moulin, with its ancient stone rows, is suitable for families interested in history and nature. The Yves Rocher House in La Gacilly offers an interactive, multi-sensory exhibition about the brand's history and values, with reduced entry fees for children.
What cycling opportunities are available near Sainte-Marie?
The region is excellent for cycling, especially along its historic waterways. You can cycle along the Towpath on the Nantes-Brest canal, which passes through a wide, tree-lined alluvial zone, offering bird-watching opportunities. Another peaceful option is the Towpath along the Vilaine, perfect for a relaxed ride along the riverbanks.
Where can I go for a walk or hike around Sainte-Marie?
For walks and hikes, the towpaths are a great choice. The Towpath along the Vilaine and the Towpath on the Nantes-Brest canal both offer peaceful routes for walking. For more dedicated hiking, you can explore various trails listed in the Hiking around Sainte-Marie guide, which includes easy to moderate loops like the one from La Chapelle-de-Brain.
Are there any museums or cultural centers to visit?
Yes, the Yves Rocher House in La Gacilly features a museum that delves into the history, know-how, and core values of the Yves Rocher brand through interactive exhibits. It also includes a shop and cafeteria.
What are the best places for bird-watching near Sainte-Marie?
The Towpath on the Nantes-Brest canal is highly recommended for bird-watching. It follows an old arm of the Oust River and passes through a wide, tree-lined alluvial zone teeming with birdlife.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in the Sainte-Marie region?
The Sainte-Marie region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling and walking along the historic towpaths, such as the Nantes-Brest canal. For more adventurous pursuits, there are dedicated MTB trails and running trails available, catering to different difficulty levels.
What makes Redon a significant place to visit?
Redon is a small historic town known for its charm and strategic location at the crossroads of western waterways. It grew around the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur, founded in 832. Its history as a trading port is evident in the old shipowners' houses and the large harbor basin, making it a worthwhile stop, especially along the Velodyssee bike route.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Sainte-Marie?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails available. You can find a selection of routes, including moderate to difficult loops, in the MTB Trails around Sainte-Marie guide. These trails offer diverse experiences for mountain biking enthusiasts.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Sainte-Marie?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ancient Alignments du Moulin are highly rated for their historical context and good explanations. The scenic towpaths, like the Nantes-Brest canal, are loved for their picturesque passages and opportunities for cycling and bird-watching.
Are there any easy walking paths suitable for beginners around Sainte-Marie?
Yes, the towpaths offer easy and peaceful walking experiences. The Towpath along the Vilaine is ideal for a relaxed stroll along the riverbanks. Additionally, the Hiking around Sainte-Marie guide includes easy loops, such as the one from La Chapelle-de-Brain, which are suitable for beginners.
Most popular routes around Sainte-Marie
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