Blain and its surroundings, between canal, forest and heritage
Let yourself be seduced by Blain, a small town in the north of the Loire-Atlantique region, on the edge of the Gâvre forest. Here, the Nantes-Brest canal winds through the town like a silver ribbon, while the national forest spreads its emerald-green mantle. The ponds sparkle like hidden jewels.
You'll love
A bike ride along the canal for total immersion in nature
An unusual night aboard a "toue cabanée" or in a cottage nestled in the heart of the forest
Discovering the local heritage
A boat trip on the canal, including a lock crossing, for a unique experience.
Day 1 : Saddle up for a green getaway
Morning: On the paths of La Vélodyssée
Leaving Blain, you can rent your bike from Cycles Riflet and set off to discover the canal-forest loop. This part of La Vélodyssée takes you along 28 km of lush, green paths. Along the way, take a well-deserved lunch break at Les Boisiers restaurant in Saint-Omer-de-Blain. Here, countryside, forest and traditional modern cuisine, accompanied by fresh seafood, come together on your plate.
Afternoon: From Saint-Omer to the Gâvre forest
Get back on your horse for a leisurely ride to the Gâvre forest, the largest state-owned forest in the département at 44.6 km². Let yourself be enchanted by birdsong, the freshness of the trees and the rustle of the wind in the leaves.
Day 2 : Between ponds and heritage
Morning: Le Gâvre, a hidden gem
Start your second day at the Etang du Gâvre for an exceptional view. Take a stroll through the town of Le Gâvre before visiting the Musée Benoist - Maison de la forêt. Discover the history of the forest and its secrets, through interactive and entertaining exhibits that will delight young and old alike. Learn more about the local flora and fauna, as well as traditional forestry trades.
Afternoon: Blain, a town steeped in history
After lunch on the harbor or in Blain town center, visit the Musée de la fève, de la crèche et des traditions populaires (Museum of Beans, Cribs and Popular Traditions), with its collection of 10,000 royal beans, the only one of its kind in France. Then follow the sculptural path marked by the ermine, which leads to the château and the printing museum.
Visit ideas
Day 3 : On the water, a gentle way of life
Morning: A trip on the water
Come aboard the Toue de Blain for an unforgettable boat trip (reservation required) on the Nantes-Brest canal. You'll even pass through a lock - a unique experience to share!
Afternoon: Péard Farm, back to basics
Round off your stay with a visit to Ferme Péard in Blain, a committed organic farm that transforms the milk from its 70 cows into yoghurts and organic desserts. If you're lucky enough to be there at the right time, you can even watch the evening milking.
