France Boating Holidays - Brittany

Brittany - Legends and Contrasts - Cruiser Boats Route Map

Brittany Boat Hire Map

Base Information

Suggested river and canal cruises from Messac, Dinan cruiser boat bases in Brittany

One week one-way cruise from Messac

Messac - Nort-sur-Erdre or vice versa one-way trip

Vilaine - Canal de Nantes a Brest - Erdre

Visit the sixteenth century farm on the river bank at Beslé. Nicknamed 'Little Venice' the town of Redon is criss-crossed with waterways and numerous bridges. Divert to La Roche Bernard at the mouth of the Vilaine River, an important port and yachting centre.

Sample some crisp cider in the cider factory at Guenrouet or enjoy the leisure base there. Perhaps walk in the forest beween Guenrouet and Blain with its historic chateau.

For King Francois 1st, the Erdre was the most beautiful river in France. According to a Breton legend, 100 castles were built along its banks. Explore the valley's flora and fauna, call at the little port of Suce, and further on marvel at the cathedral and the 15th century castle of the Dukes of Brittany at Nantes, the historic capital of the Dukes of Brittany.

260km 18 locks 35hrs one-way cruising time

119km 16 locks 21hrs direct one-way cruising time

The picturesque medieval port of Dinan on the Rance Estuary
Cruiser boat by castle josselin

One week round trip from Messac

Messac - Josselin round trip

Vilaine - Canal de Nantes a Brest

Narrow waterways through dense forest then flat reedy plains provide a total contrast in secretive, mysterious Brittany. On the Aff river, La Gacilly is a craft centre and HQ of famous perfume maker Yves Rocher. Visit the Yves Rocher botanical gardens and the beauty centre. Enjoy cider and pancakes in a little restaurant at Malestroit and discover the town's ancient streets. Then the high walls of the chateau at Josselin appear. Explore the chateau and admire the houses clustered around the main square.

208km 36 lock 36hr round trip cruising time

Messac - Nantes round trip

Canal de Nante a Brest - Erdre

Messac - Redon - Blain - Nort-sur-Erdre - Nantes

280km 36 locks 42hr round trip cruising time

The Erdre River in Nantes France
Josselin Castle in Brittany

Please note that hours suggested above are approximate