Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Samson-Sur-Rance include historical landmarks, natural riverine landscapes, and recreational activities. This charming Breton village is situated on the banks of the Rance River, offering picturesque views and opportunities for exploration. The area features ancient megalithic monuments, historical buildings, and a network of walking and cycling trails along the Rance Valley. Visitors can explore its rich past and enjoy the serene setting.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Saint-Samson-Sur-Rance.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Very beautiful church. I especially liked the windows.
0
0
I was particularly impressed by the church windows.
0
0
The Basilica of Saint-Sauveur was founded around 1112 and combines Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It is famous as the burial place of the hero Bertrand du Guesclin. It has been a historic monument since 1862 and was elevated to a minor basilica in 1954. Noteworthy are the Romanesque west portal, the Gothic chapels, and the relief of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
1
0
Definitely a better choice for getting to Dinan than the bridge closer to Saint Malo.
0
0
one of the tide mills on the Rance, worth the detour
0
0
Going back up towards St-Malo, a pretty path to the left (Rance valley) allows you to partly avoid the D117.
0
0
This church was not dedicated to one of the many people we venerate as blessed or saints and ask for their heavenly intercession with God, or - like so many French churches - to the Mother of God (“Notre-Dame”). The patronage here was chosen to be the incarnate Son of God, Jesus Christ himself, and the church in Dinan was dedicated to him under the title “SAINT SAUVEUR” - that is, as the Redeemer and Savior (Latin: “Salvator”).
2
0
Between the upper town and the lower town it is 75m
4
0
Saint-Samson-sur-Rance and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the impressive Menhir de la Tremblais, an 8-meter-high megalithic monument with ancient carvings. The village also features an old church dating back to 1740. Nearby, the medieval Dinan Old Town offers narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and defensive walls, while Saint-Suliac is a charming village known for its granite houses and maritime heritage.
The Rance Valley is a prominent natural attraction, offering picturesque landscapes. You can enjoy boat rides on the river estuary from the local marina, which provides approximately 150 berths. The area is also crisscrossed by numerous walking and cycling trails, including a former towpath along the Rance, perfect for enjoying the river's charm and local geography.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Beauchet Tidal Mill is a well-preserved former tidal mill that operated until 1962, offering an interesting historical insight. For recreation, there's a mini-golf course open from June to September. Additionally, the village of Saint-Suliac, with its charming streets and river access, is considered family-friendly.
The region around Saint-Samson-sur-Rance is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous walking and cycling trails, including the former towpath along the Rance. The river itself offers opportunities for water activities like kayaking, sailing, and fishing. For more structured routes, you can find many options for road cycling, mountain biking, and running trails.
Absolutely. The Pont Saint-Hubert, a suspension bridge spanning the Rance, offers very nice views of the river and the small harbors of Port-St-Jean and Port-St-Hubert. The village of Saint-Suliac also provides a lookout point over the Rance estuary.
The area boasts a network of walking trails, most notably the former towpath that runs along the Rance River. This path connects Dinan to Dinard, passing through Saint-Samson-sur-Rance, and offers a peaceful way to appreciate the Rance's charm. You can find various running trails, many of which are suitable for walking, with options ranging from moderate to difficult.
The Festi-Rance is a free music festival held every last weekend of July. It takes place at the port of Lyvet, near the Châtelier lock. This two-day event features local and Breton rock and traditional music groups, with convivial meals of fried mussels available for festival-goers.
Yes, one of the most significant landmarks is the Menhir de la Tremblais, also known as the Standing Stone or Menhir de la Tiemblais. This imposing megalithic monument stands at 8 meters high and weighs over 140 tonnes, bearing witness to the region's ancient settlement since Neolithic times. Carved symbols, thousands of years old, can be seen on its surface, particularly in the late afternoon sun.
While in the area, you should try the famous 'lace pancakes' from nearby Dinan. The region is also known for its local cider, particularly the Cider du Val de Rance, which is a popular gastronomic specialty.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical sites, natural riverine landscapes, and the variety of walking and cycling trails. The medieval charm of Dinan Old Town, the scenic views from Pont Saint-Hubert, and the well-preserved Beauchet Tidal Mill are frequently highlighted. The serene setting along the Rance River and the opportunities for outdoor exploration are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Yes, the area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can follow the former towpath along the Rance for a leisurely ride or explore more challenging routes. Komoot provides several road cycling routes and MTB trails in the vicinity, with varying distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: