The best MTB trails around Saint-Gonnery

The region around Saint-Gonnery offers diverse terrain, characterized by the 'green and blue landscapes of inland Brittany'. You'll find verdant wooded countryside, gentle hills, and significant waterways like the Nantes-Brest Canal and La Rigole d'Hilvern. Trails range from easy greenways along canals to more dynamic forest paths, particularly around the Quénécan Forest and Lac de Guerlédan.

There are over 25 mountain bike trails around Saint-Gonnery, catering to various skill levels. This includes 13 easy routes and 15 moderate routes, with options for both leisurely rides and more challenging forest explorations.

Yes, Saint-Gonnery offers several easy trails suitable for families. Routes along the Nantes-Brest Canal and La Rigole d'Hilvern provide flat, easy-to-navigate greenways. An example is the Écluse de la Forêt – Rohan loop from Saint-Gonnery, an easy 27.5 km trail through tranquil canal landscapes.

The best time to mountain bike in Saint-Gonnery is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the trails are in good condition. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

The mountain bike routes in Saint-Gonnery are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from tranquil canal paths to engaging forest trails, and the scenic beauty of the Breton countryside.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Château de Josselin – Château de Josselin loop from Saint-Maudan is a moderate 62.3 km circular trail offering views of the historic château.

The region is rich in natural and historical sights. You can explore the picturesque locks along the Nantes-Brest Canal, the artificial waterway of the Hilvern Trench, and the vast Quénécan Forest. Nearby, Pontivy Castle and the charming settlement of Rohan also offer points of interest.

While there are no trails explicitly rated as 'difficult' in our current selection, the region offers moderate routes that provide a good challenge. The extensive network of 300 km of marked trails around Lac de Guerlédan and the Quénécan Forest, a short distance from Saint-Gonnery, includes circuits designed for experienced riders, featuring diverse landscapes and more dynamic sections.

While Saint-Gonnery itself is a smaller commune, you can often reach nearby towns like Pontivy or Rohan, which are well-connected by public transport, and then cycle to the trailheads. The Nantes-Brest Canal and La Vélodyssée cycling route offer greenways that can be accessed from various points, making it feasible to combine public transport with cycling.

Parking is generally available in and around Saint-Gonnery, particularly near popular access points for the Nantes-Brest Canal and La Rigole d'Hilvern. For routes starting from nearby towns like Rohan or Pontivy, designated parking areas are usually available close to the canal towpaths or forest entrances.

Generally, no specific permits are required for mountain biking on public trails and greenways in the Morbihan department. However, it's always advisable to respect local signage, especially in protected natural areas or private lands, and to follow standard trail etiquette. For more general information on mountain biking in Brittany, you can visit Brittany Tourism.

Many trails in the Saint-Gonnery area, particularly those along the canals and in the forests, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to clean up after them. Always check specific trail regulations if posted, as some protected areas might have restrictions.