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Hiking weekendIn the heart of the Léguer valleyfrom Plouaret to Lannion

Hiking weekend in the heart of the Léguer Valley

Want to get back into shape in Brittany? Escape for a weekend of hiking in the heart of the Léguer Valley! On the programme: passing through typical old Breton villages, an unusual visit that will bring you out of your shell, visits to medieval castles, and a good dose of stamina. From stage to stage, the landscapes will blow you away like a breeze of freedom… Ready to let yourself be surprised at the turn of the paths?

No need for a car! The walk starts at Plouaret Trégor station, and finishes a stone’s throw from Lannion station.

Practical information

Duration

2 days | 4 stages

Distance | Difference in altitude

28 km | 419 m

Departure

Plouaret

Difficulty

Very accessible

Start of the walk

Plouaret, Commune of Brittany's Rural Heritage

Your walk along the paths of the Pink Granite Coast begins in Plouaret, a small town with a rich heritage nestling in the heart of the Trégorroise countryside. Before heading into the Saint Ethurien valley, discover the local history and legends in the footsteps of François-Marie Luze. This 19th-century poet in the Breton language collected and published a masterly body of tales, songs and plays from Brittany. One hike leads to another, and you’ll set off on a short, easy 4-kilometre circuit to discover his work… A journey to the heart of Breton legends awaits you on your weekend hike!

Stage 1

All roads lead to the Old Market

After the first few kilometres of walking, you’ll pass the market town of Le Vieux Marché, dominated by the church of Notre Dame de Consolation. Here you can visit the Arzou an Douar ceramics workshop. You can also buy other items from local artisans (basketry, cutlery, painting, etc.). If you’re going hiking in the summer, the shop also offers demonstrations of its skills during the season! A great way to combine hiking and discovery in Brittany.

Stage 2

To be or not to be Beech of Kervinihy

When you reach the heights of the Vieux Marché, in the heart of a small woodland, the Kervinihy beech reveals its majestic antlers during your walk! With its sinuous branches and 25 metre height and 20 metre wingspan, it’s impossible to miss. Some legends have it that it even served as a Bitter for the fishermen of Locquémeau, 15 kilometres away.
Many hiking enthusiasts (and their loved ones!) have taken advantage of their walk to carve texts and motifs into its trunk. And it’s fair to say that over the last 150 years, a great many couples have come and gone…

Step 3

Rando & les Sept-Saints

Continue your walk to the Seven Saints, a crypt where the Seven Sleeping Saints of Ephesus (the saints shared by Christians and Muslims) are honoured. Dating from the early 18th century, it is particularly remarkable because it was literally built on an ancient dolmen. A unique witness to the evangelisation of the Celtic world. Don’t be surprised if you bump into people here on your walk: it’s an unmissable Muslim-Christian pilgrimage site!

Step 4

A cool walk to the Losser

Classified as a wild river, the Léguer is renowned for its rich ecosystem and wooded banks. You’re sure to enjoy a refreshing break during your walk! It’s also a popular spot for anglers, not least because of the presence of Atlantic salmon. The valley is home to a number of old mills that have long harnessed the river’s energy, such as the Moulin du Losser, which can be seen in its green setting from the bridge.

Step 5

On the road to Kergrist castle

It’s a royal walk! A quick incursion into the heights of the valley takes you to the Château de Kergrist, the “Pearl of the Trégor”. The vast park surrounding the building features magnificent formal gardens, making for a pleasant stroll (in case you haven’t had enough!). Listed as a historic monument, the château is open to visitors all year round.

Step 6

A little tour of the Château de Tonquédec

Put on your chain mail and the defensive medieval castle of Tonquédec is one of the finest remains of feudal Brittany. You can’t miss it: it dominates the valley from its rocky spur, with its 11 towers and drawbridge. Construction began in the 12th century and the castle was finally dismantled in the 17th century. It is now a listed historic monument and can be visited from April to All Saints’ Day. Don’t forget to take a look while you’re out and about!

Arrival

Lannion, Brittany's historic town

Your walk ends in the heart of the historic town of Lannion. Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets and admire the architecture of the timber-framed houses, town houses and religious buildings. If you still have some strength left, climb the 142 steps of the Brélévenez staircase to enjoy the view over the town.
And to round off the day, try a visit to the Warenghem distillery and its famous Armorik whisky, or a tasting at the Kerampont brewery.

Hiking in Brittany

Frequently asked questions
  • Where is the Pink Granite Coast located?

    The Pink Granite Coast is located in the north of Brittany, in the west of France.

  • What other walks are there on the Pink Granite Coast?

    If you’ve enjoyed your hiking holiday in the heart of the Vallée du Léguer, and your calves still need some exercise, don’t miss our other trails:

    A hike between Perros-Guirec and Trégastel along the GR®34

      • Average length: One day
      • Distance : 12.5 kilometres
      • Start : Trégastel

    A day’s hike from Lannion to Trébeurden on the GR®34

    • Average length : One day
    • Distance : 19 kilometres
    • Start : Trébeurden

    A guided walk along the banks of the Guindy

    • Average duration : 2h30
    • Distance: 7 kilometres
    • Departure : Tréguier

    A walk in Brittany in the footsteps of the customs officers

    • Average duration : 1 hour
    • Distance : 2.1 kilometres
    • Start : Ile Renote car park, Trégastel

    A walk from Lannion to the Grève de Saint Michel along the GR®34

    • Average length : One day
    • Distance : 19 kilometres
    • Start : Lannion

    Around the Lézardrieux peninsula

    • Average duration : 4 days
    • Distance : 67 kilometres
    • Start : Pont de Lézardrieux
  • What level of ability do you need to go hiking in Brittany?

    Brittany is an ideal destination, whatever your level of ability! And there’s a wide range of trails to choose from, from short loops suitable for beginners to more challenging hikes lasting several days.

    For this walking holiday in the Vallée du Léguer, you don’t need to be an athlete: the route is very accessible (28 km over 2 days, 419 m ascent). All you need is to be in good shape and enjoy walking.

  • What is the customs path?

    The sentier des douaniers, also known as the GR®34, is one of the most emblematic walking routes in Brittany, and indeed in France!

    Over 2,000 kilometres long, it runs along the entire Breton coastline, from Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire.

    Originally, this trail was used by customs officers in the 19th century to keep an eye on the coast and prevent maritime smuggling. Today, it offers walkers spectacular panoramic views of Brittany’s cliffs, coves, harbours and lighthouses.

    On the Pink Granite Coast, the GR®34 reveals postcard-perfect landscapes, with pink rocks sculpted by the wind and the sea.

  • Is there a lot of change in altitude when hiking on the Pink Granite Coast?

    Good news: no, not really!

    Most of the walks on the Pink Granite Coast are gentle and accessible, with moderate relief. The paths often run along the coast, past beaches or through small green valleys. There are a few gentle climbs and descents in sight, with no technical difficulties.

  • Hiking or cycling, what should you choose on the Pink Granite Coast?

    Both options have their charms!

    On foot, you can take the time to explore every nook and cranny of the coastline: hidden coves, granite chaos, small ports and marine panoramas… Trails like the famous GR®34 offer you total immersion in Brittany’s natural beauty.

    By bike, you can cover more kilometres and easily link up the typical villages of Brittany. Signposted cycle routes (such as the Vélomaritime®) also run along the Pink Granite Coast, giving you a whole new way to admire the countryside.