The best walks and hikes around Saint-Gérand
4.5
(93)
583
hikers
74
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Gérand offers a network of trails characterized by gentle terrain and waterside paths. The region features the Canal de Nantes à Brest, with routes often following its banks and passing by locks. Elevation changes are generally minimal, making many routes accessible. The landscape is typically composed of agricultural areas, small woodlands, and riverine environments.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Gérand
- The most popular hiking route is Ville Pérot lock – Écluse de la Forêt loop from Saint-Gonnery, a…
Last updated: October 7, 2026
5.0
(3)
37
hikers
12.2km
03:09
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
34
hikers
7.91km
02:00
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
64
hikers
5.08km
01:17
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
20
hikers
4.82km
01:14
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
17
hikers
7.07km
01:50
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
A wide variety of goods were available from a food truck. Unfortunately, the coffee, which had been kept warm, wasn't very good. But the homemade cakes were delicious.
0
0
In the Pontivy court building we found a café with lots of delicious patisserie and other regional specialties. A great surprise in a town that is pretty deserted on Sundays.
0
0
The old castle is now partially open to the public. It looks very defensive.
1
0
Here, the Blavet meets the Nantes-Brest canal. It was Napoleon Bonaparte, then first consul, who decided on September 17, 1802 to channel the Blavet from Pontivy to Lorient. The project was titanic and lasted more than 30 years.
1
0
The Forêt lock is one of the many locks that balance the waters on the Nantes-Brest canal. It is named after the forest of Branguily forest which extends, at this location, on both sides of the canal.
0
0
The Château de Pontivy, or Château des Rohan, was built between the middle of the 15th century and the beginning of the 16th century for and by the Viscounts of Rohan. Following the codes of Breton military architecture from the end of the 15th century, this castle is one of the last fortified castles to have been built in Brittany. You will notice that the facade allows adaptation to the development of fire artillery, but that particular attention is paid to comfort and decoration. The downspouts are worked, the skylights carved, and the interior of the castle is equipped with fireplaces and latrines, making it a little gem of comfort for the time. Two permanent exhibitions are housed there: one is dedicated to the sculptor Gaston Schweitzer, while the other is a more contemporary installation by Japanese artist Koki Watanabe. I personally loved the contrast offered by this rather austere facade with the charm of the half-timbered houses in the city center, which I invite you to take the time to discover.
4
0
There’s a lovely campsite in Kerfourn called Ker Therese, ideal for stopping off whilst cycling the Nantes Brest Canal. #kertherese
0
0
Situated right along the river, this section of the canal is regulated by the Guernal lock in the town of Neulliac. Like most of the canal it was built in the early 1800s. The buildings on the opposite side include houses, shops, lock bridges, and early industry, still under restoration.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Saint-Gérand?
There are over 80 hiking routes available around Saint-Gérand. These trails range from easy strolls along the canal to more moderate loops through the countryside, offering a variety of options for different skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Saint-Gérand?
Yes, Saint-Gérand offers a good selection of easy trails perfect for beginners. Approximately 38 routes are classified as easy. An example is the Canal de Nantes à Brest loop from Saint-Gonnery, which is just under 2.5 miles (3.9 km) and takes about 1 hour to complete.
What is the typical duration of hikes around Saint-Gérand?
Hike durations in Saint-Gérand vary, but many popular routes range from 1.5 to 3.5 hours. For instance, the Ville Pérot lock – Écluse de la Forêt loop from Saint-Gonnery takes about 1 hour 50 minutes, while the Canal de Nantes à Brest – Rohan loop from Saint-Maudan is closer to 3 hours 17 minutes.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Saint-Gérand?
Many of the trails along the Canal de Nantes à Brest are suitable for families due to their gentle terrain and minimal elevation changes. These paths often provide safe, flat surfaces for walking with children. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most family-friendly experiences.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Saint-Gérand?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails around Saint-Gérand, especially on the canal paths and in rural areas. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, particularly near livestock or in populated areas, and to clean up after them.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Saint-Gérand?
Hiking in Saint-Gérand primarily features picturesque canal paths, often following the Canal de Nantes à Brest. You'll encounter charming locks, small woodlands, and open agricultural areas, offering a blend of waterside views and tranquil rural scenery.
Are there any circular walks available in Saint-Gérand?
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Saint-Gérand are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hiking loop from Saint-Gérand-Croixanvec and the Écluse de la Forêt – Ville Pérot lock loop from Saint-Gonnery.
What can I see along the hiking trails or nearby Saint-Gérand?
While hiking, you'll often encounter the historic locks of the Canal de Nantes à Brest, such as the Guernal lock. Nearby attractions include the impressive Pontivy Castle and the charming town of Rohan, which can be explored as part of longer routes.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Saint-Gérand?
The hiking experience in Saint-Gérand is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful canal-side paths, the gentle terrain, and the opportunity to enjoy nature without significant elevation challenges.
Is Saint-Gérand a good destination for winter hiking?
The relatively flat terrain along the Canal de Nantes à Brest makes many trails accessible even in winter, provided there isn't heavy snow or ice. The canal paths offer clear routes, and the quiet winter landscape can provide a unique and serene hiking experience.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
The main scenic spots are typically found along the Canal de Nantes à Brest, where you can enjoy views of the waterway, passing boats, and the surrounding rural landscape. The locks themselves also offer interesting points of interest and photo opportunities.
Most popular routes around Saint-Gérand
Most popular attractions around Saint-Gérand
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
