Local Area

Explore the Local Area Around Ménéac

One of the best things about staying at Gîte La Gifflaie is its peaceful countryside location while still being within easy reach of some of Brittany’s most beautiful towns, historic sites and family attractions. From medieval castles and legendary forests to lakeside activities and traditional Breton villages, there is plenty to explore during your stay.

Josselin

Around 25 minutes by car

The beautiful medieval town of Josselin is one of the highlights of inland Brittany and makes a fantastic day out from Ménéac. Set alongside the River Oust, the town is famous for its impressive château, cobbled streets and traditional timber-framed buildings.

At the heart of the town is the spectacular Château de Josselin, home of the Rohan family and one of Brittany’s most recognisable castles. Its three imposing medieval towers overlook the river, while the historic centre nearby is perfect for a relaxed walk, coffee or lunch.

While visiting Josselin you can:

• Explore Château de Josselin and its gardens.

• Wander through the historic centre and admire the colourful half-timbered houses.

• Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Roncier.

• Walk beside the River Oust and the Nantes–Brest Canal.

• Explore the historic Sainte-Croix area across the river.

Josselin is ideal for either a half-day visit or a full day of sightseeing, food and relaxed exploring.

Ploërmel & Lac au Duc

Around 25–30 minutes by car

Ploërmel is one of the main towns near Ménéac and is a handy place for shops, supermarkets and restaurants, as well as being an enjoyable destination in its own right.

Just outside the town is Lac au Duc, a large lake surrounded by countryside and walking routes. It is a particularly popular place during the warmer months and is ideal for families or anyone wanting to spend some time outdoors.

Things to enjoy around Ploërmel include:

• Walking or cycling around Lac au Duc.

• Relaxing beside the lake.

• Exploring the historic centre of Ploërmel.

• Visiting local cafés, shops and restaurants.

• Using Ploërmel as a base for exploring the wider Brocéliande area.

Ploërmel is around 26 km from Ménéac, with the journey normally taking roughly 25–30 minutes.

Brocéliande & Tréhorenteuc

Around 35–45 minutes by car

The legendary Forest of Brocéliande is one of the most atmospheric places to visit in this part of Brittany. Closely associated with the stories of King Arthur, Merlin, Morgan le Fay and the Lady of the Lake, it combines beautiful woodland with centuries of Breton legend.

The village of Tréhorenteuc is an excellent starting point for exploring the forest and some of its best-known attractions.

Highlights include:

• Walking through the Val sans Retour – Valley of No Return.

• Seeing the famous Golden Tree.

• Visiting the small village of Tréhorenteuc.

• Following walking trails through the forest.

• Discovering sites associated with the legends of Merlin and King Arthur.

• Visiting nearby Château de Trécesson.

• Joining one of the storytelling or guided walks available during the tourist season.

This is a particularly good day out for families, walkers, photographers and anyone interested in mythology and local history.

La Gacilly

Around 50–60 minutes by car

The picturesque village of La Gacilly is a lovely place for a relaxed day out and is particularly worth visiting during spring and summer.

The village is known for its flower-filled streets, artisan workshops and its association with the Yves Rocher brand. It is also home to the internationally known La Gacilly Photo Festival, when huge outdoor photographs are displayed throughout the village and surrounding landscape.

While visiting La Gacilly you can:

• Wander through the attractive village streets.

• Browse independent craft shops and artisan workshops.

• Discover the Yves Rocher gardens and visitor attractions.

• Explore the outdoor photography festival during the summer season.

• Enjoy lunch or a drink beside the River Aff.

• Spend time exploring the surrounding Breton countryside.

It makes a great destination for couples, families and anyone interested in photography, gardens or traditional Breton villages.

Dinan

Around 1 hour by car

For a longer day trip, Dinan is one of Brittany’s most impressive medieval towns and is well worth the journey.

Surrounded by historic ramparts, the old town is filled with cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings, restaurants, cafés and independent shops. Below the town is the picturesque harbour on the River Rance.

Highlights include:

• Exploring Dinan’s medieval old town.

• Walking along sections of the historic ramparts.

• Visiting Dinan Castle.

• Walking down the famous Rue du Jerzual.

• Enjoying lunch or drinks around the old port.

• Walking or taking a boat trip along the River Rance.

The drive between Ménéac and Dinan is around 60 km and takes approximately one hour.

A Great Base for Exploring Brittany

Whether you enjoy historic towns, castles, countryside walks, lakes, photography, family attractions or simply discovering traditional Breton villages, Gîte La Gifflaie in Ménéac provides a peaceful base for exploring Brittany.

With Josselin and Ploërmel around half an hour away, the legendary Forest of Brocéliande within easy reach, and destinations such as La Gacilly and Dinan making excellent day trips, there is plenty to discover during a stay at La Gifflaie.