Best attractions and places to see around Monterrein are found in the Morbihan department of Brittany, France, now part of the commune of Ploërmel. This region offers a mix of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore ancient châteaux, historic town centers, and significant natural areas like the Paimpont Forest. The area provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from medieval architecture to megalithic monuments.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
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... and we almost drove past. The medieval town is worth visiting twice! The buildings have great architecture and there are plenty of restaurants.
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It's really worth visiting! Beautifully renovated and maintained houses from the 15th and 16th century create an amazing atmosphere of a truly historic village. True wonders of ancient architecture.
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The campsite is nicely located, good infrastructure. A good base for visiting the beautiful towns of Malestroit and Josselin.
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We stayed here for one night in our own tent on our bike tour along the Canal Du Nantes à Brest. Very friendly owner, very neat and quiet place, clean sanitary facilities. There is a self catering supermarket in Malestroit
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www.campingmalestroit.com Open from mid-April to late September
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It would be difficult to get any closer to the water without falling in! Located on a towpath, Les Rives de l'Oust (the banks of the Oust) campsite lives up to its name. The site welcomes its visitors on 80 spacious, shady or sunny pitches, but also in mobile homes, some lodge tents and a large communal stage accommodation. It's quiet, informal and sociable here. A destination to unwind in peace and quiet, because the natural surroundings invite you to relax. Playground equipment for children complete the equipment. Located 300m from the town center, the campsite is a convenient base for visiting the pretty characterful town of Malestroit, steeped in medieval architecture. The towpath is used by cyclists on the way from Nantes to Brest. Right next door you can rent kayaks to get to know the Oust even better! Source: Brittany Travel
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Beautiful small town with stone and half-timbered houses worth seeing. The founding of Malestroit dates back to 987, when monks settled on the banks of the Oust. The place became a stage destination on the Way of St. James, one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. In 1131 the place was mentioned under the name Malestricum. During the Hundred Years' War in 1343 in the chapel de la Madeleine in Malestroit by the French king Philip VI. and the English King Edward III. signed a ceasefire. At the end of the Middle Ages, Malestroit became one of the nine baronies of Brittany. At the beginning of the 19th century, Napoleon I commissioned the construction of the Canal de Nantes à Brest, initially for military reasons, but later also with the aim of connecting the interior of Brittany to commercial goods traffic. Source: Wikipedia
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A nice stop at the edge of the Nantes-Brest canal
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The region around Monterrein is rich in history. You can explore the Historic centre of Malestroit, known for its 15th and 16th-century houses and medieval charm. Don't miss Trécesson Castle, a private, well-preserved fortress built of red sandstone. Within Monterrein itself, the Château de la Haute-Touche and the Cemetery Cross are significant landmarks. Nearby Ploërmel, with which Monterrein merged, offers the emblematic Church of Saint-Armel and several old buildings like the Hôtel des Ducs de Bretagne.
Yes, the area boasts beautiful natural features. The Paimpont Forest and Forges are about 21 km away, offering extensive woodlands. The River Oyon flows nearby, originating from the moats of Trécesson Castle. Further afield, the Gulf of Morbihan, an almost protected lagoon, is about 46 km distant. You can also find other natural sites like Île-aux-Pies and Vallée du Canut within a reasonable distance.
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For example, there are easy cycling loops like the Montertelot Lock – Malestroit Lock loop from Val d'Oust, or more challenging MTB trails such as the Montertelot Lock – Moulin de Blond Lock loop from Malestroit. Explore these and more on the MTB Trails around Monterrein, Cycling around Monterrein, and Gravel biking around Monterrein guide pages.
Absolutely. The Historic centre of Malestroit is considered family-friendly, offering a charming environment to explore medieval architecture. The Mills of Île Notre-Dame in Malestroit also provide an interesting historical insight for all ages. Many of the natural areas and easy cycling routes are also suitable for families.
Several charming towns are within a short drive. Josselin, about 16 km away, is home to a significant château. Malestroit, with its historic center and the Place du Bouffay, offers a glimpse into medieval Brittany. Further out, Redon (33 km) combines an active port with cobbled streets, and Vannes (39 km) is renowned for its half-timbered houses.
Visitors frequently praise the well-preserved historical sites and the authentic atmosphere. For instance, the Historic centre of Malestroit is loved for its beautifully renovated 15th and 16th-century houses, creating an amazing historic village feel. The region's blend of medieval architecture and significant natural landscapes is also highly appreciated by the komoot community, with over 150 upvotes and many shared photos.
Yes, the region has a rich prehistoric past. Megalithic monuments are present in nearby communes such as Augan and Ploërmel, offering a fascinating look into ancient occupation and history.
For cycling, you can enjoy routes like the 'Montertelot Lock – Le Roc-Saint-André loop from Montertelot' which is an easy 18.3 km ride. Another option is the 'Moulin de Blond Lock – Canal Bohème Crêperie & Café loop from Ploërmel', a moderate 19.9 km route. These routes often follow canals or scenic paths, providing pleasant rides. More options are available on the Cycling around Monterrein guide page.
The Mills of Île Notre-Dame in Malestroit have been present since the 12th century. They symbolize seigneurial power and were historically used to produce tan for tanneries, flour, and to tread on woven fabrics. They represent an important part of the region's industrial and economic history.
While specific data for Monterrein isn't provided, generally, the spring and summer months (May to September) are ideal for visiting Brittany. The weather is typically milder and more conducive to exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the natural beauty of the region.
For accommodation, the Campsite "Les Rives de l'Oust" in Malestroit is a convenient option. Located on a towpath, it offers spacious pitches and mobile homes, and is just 300m from Malestroit's town center, making it a great base for exploring the area.
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts can find several trails. A moderate option is the 'Ville aux Figlins lock loop from Val d'Oust', covering 38.3 km. For a more challenging ride, consider the 'Montertelot Lock – Moulin de Blond Lock loop from Malestroit', which is a difficult 109.8 km route. You can find more details and other routes on the MTB Trails around Monterrein guide page.


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