The best hikes from bus stations around Forêt domaniale de Fougères

The famous rock alignment known as the Druids' Line is as intriguing as it is fascinating. What are eighty quartz blocks doing, stretching over three hundred meters, in an area where this type of stone doesn't exist? Was it a religious or pagan practice? To date, no researcher has found the answer. The Druids' Line follows a general north-northeast orientation, despite numerous meanders. This type of alignment, in a single line, is quite rare in Brittany. It is mistakenly called the Druids' Line, as it is not a Celtic installation, dating back to the Neolithic period. (Source: https://www.destination-fougeres.bzh)

It has been located in this place since the Neolithic period.

The Jardin du Val Nançon stretches picturesquely along the Nançon River, framing the northern city walls of Fougères with lush greenery. Covering approximately two hectares, various themed areas invite exploration. This includes a botanical garden, the "Priest's Garden," a reference to the remains of an ancient abbey, a so-called "plant cage," and a colorfully landscaped slope. Of particular note is the contemporary glass art sculpture "L'œuvre à la vie" by Louis-Marie Catta from 2000, which represents peace and dialogue between cultures.

Tour Montfromery was originally designed as part of the city walls and served to defend the eastern city limits. Its name dates back to the Constable of Fougères, Beaucé de Montframmery, who was active in 1473. The tower was also known as Tour Saint-Jacques and was connected to a nearby gate called the Four d'Enfer. It was part of the defensive works that protected the city during the Middle Ages.

The Place du Marchix is located in the city's oldest district. The square takes its name from the Old French word "marchié," as Fougères's first market once took place here. The district is characterized by well-preserved half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th century, many of which are listed as historical monuments. The square was once a center for artisanal businesses such as tanneries and cloth manufacturers, which used the nearby river to process leather and fabrics.

The Église Saint-Léonard was built in the 12th century and acquired its present form in the flamboyant Gothic style in the 15th and 16th centuries. During the French Revolution, the church was deprived of its sacred function, but in the 19th century, under architects such as Aristide Tourneux, it underwent extensive renovations, including a new main façade with a large rose window. Inside, 19th-century stained-glass windows depicting episodes from the life of Saint Léonard can be seen.

The church was originally founded in the 11th century, while the current structure was built in several stages between 1380 and 1760. Particularly noteworthy are the wooden-vaulted nave, the 16th-century granite carvings, and the stained-glass windows from 1885 to 1926. The church also houses the venerated statue of Notre-Dame-des-Marais.

Dominated by one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, Fougères boasts magnificent ramparts, towers, and a perfectly preserved historic center. From the heights, the view takes in the Nançon Valley and its half-timbered houses, offering beautiful perspectives. It's an ideal stop along the Régalante to immerse yourself in Breton history before hitting the road again.