The best cycling routes around Retiers
4.5
(59)
404
riders
89
rides
Touring cycling routes around Retiers provide access to the varied landscapes of Brittany, characterized by lush farmland, wooded areas, and a network of green routes. The region benefits from developing cycling infrastructure, including a new bike path connecting Le Theil-de-Bretagne to Retiers train station. Cyclists can explore nearby lakes and forests, with routes often incorporating former railway lines and tow paths. The terrain generally features mixed landscapes, offering a constantly changing backdrop for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.0
(6)
57
riders
151km
09:19
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
24.2km
01:29
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
riders
46.2km
03:30
320m
320m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.0
(1)
4
riders
16.2km
00:59
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
24.0km
01:29
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Retiers
Tips from the Community
Hello, your Point of Interest • 10 km cycle path from Rougé to Châteaubriant (48°16'19.6"N 1°39'50.1"W) is not located correctly on the map. Here are the correct coordinates: 47°46'48.7"N 1°27'11.3"W. Sincerely
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With nearly 20 meters long, 6 meters wide, and 4 meters high, the Roche-aux-Fées remains the largest dolmen in France and one of the best-preserved in Europe. It is composed of a schist-covered passage formed by four chambers whose meaning has not yet been revealed. Although the construction of this monument dates back to the Neolithic period, around 2000 BC, specialists remain perplexed about its construction method. The site is impressive. And when you know that some stones weighing over 40 tons come from several kilometers around, you wonder how the inhabitants of the time managed to move them there. Such a site could only inspire stories, legends, and beliefs. One of them tells that the fairy Viviane, aided by fellow fairies, would have built this imposing monument... in one night. Another concerns lovers: to know if their union will last, couples must walk around the Roche-aux-fées, each in a different direction, and count the stones. If they find the same number of stones, their future will be bright! Through a mysterious alignment during the winter solstice on December 21st or 22nd, the sun rises facing the entrance of the dolmen. At that moment, the light rays magically illuminate the stone located at the back of the covered passage. Access is free and open. The small surrounding roads are charming and quiet.
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Short video of the site: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqEBsKL7P7s
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Located in Teillay, this museum traces the history of coal mining, which marked the region from the 19th to the 20th century. Located on a former mining site, it presents machinery and miners' testimonies.
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A prosperous trading town since the Middle Ages, Vitré has preserved its well-preserved heritage. With its fortified castle, cobbled streets, and half-timbered houses, the town offers plenty to see and do, making it perfect for a stroll. It's the perfect place to soak up the Breton atmosphere.
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nighttime. A medieval fortress and Renaissance building, Châteaubriant Castle recounts ten centuries of history. In the Middle Ages, Châteaubriant Castle was at the heart of the Marches of Brittany. It served as a stronghold defending the duchy against the Kingdom of France. The keep, ramparts, seigneurial chapel, and the medieval courtyard lodgings still bear witness to the power of this fortress. In the 16th century, the bailey became a residence opening onto the gardens. The castle gardens are open to the public from February to December. Visit maps are available at the reception-shop for a better understanding of the site. A 3D space allows you to discover, with free access, the architectural evolution of the castle, from the 11th century to the present day. From February to December, heritage mediators will accompany you on an in-depth tour of the castle, its keep, and its gardens. During school holidays, family workshops allow parents and children to develop their creativity or spark their curiosity! Opening days: Gardens are open to the public, Wednesday to Sunday: 9am-6pm (February-March and October-December) or 9am-7:30pm (April-September). Prices: - Free entry for those over €0.00 (Free access to the château gardens) - Individual adult rate from €3.00 to €6.00 (Guided tours, free for those on minimum income and special cards) - Individual child rate from €0.00 (Guided tours free for those under 26) - Individual child rate from €0.00 (Guided tours free for those under 26) Child from €4.00 to €8.00 (Family activity) - Adult group rate from €5.00 (From 15 people) Payment methods: Credit cards - Bank and postal checks - Cash Tours Self-guided tours (individual): Yes Guided tours (individual): Yes Average visit duration (individual): 1 hour Self-guided tours (groups): Yes Guided tours on request (groups): Yes Guided tours (groups): Yes Average visit duration (groups): 1 hour Languages: Tour: French, English - Signs: French, English Services: Interactive kiosk - Shop - WiFi Additional information: Groups of 15 people or more are welcome - Pets allowed (Dogs on leashes are allowed in the park.) - Points of interest visible without a tour Access Location: SNCF train station: 0.5 km
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The castle is a self-guided tour. A little tip: there are bike racks inside the castle, just beyond the entrance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Retiers?
There are over 80 touring cycling routes available around Retiers. These include 28 easy routes, 44 moderate routes, and 11 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty level for touring cycling in Retiers?
The terrain around Retiers is characterized by varied landscapes, including lush farmland, wooded areas, and green routes that often incorporate former railway lines and tow paths. You'll find options ranging from easy loops, such as the Étang de la Forge – L'étang de la Forge loop from La Basse Foucherie, to more challenging long-distance routes like the Château de Châteaubriant – Greenway Moutiers Vitré loop from Arbrissel, which covers over 150 km.
Are there any newly developed cycling paths in the Retiers area?
Yes, a significant development for touring cyclists is the new 2.3-kilometer bike path connecting Le Theil-de-Bretagne to Retiers, which opened in September 2023. This path enhances local connections, including to the Retiers train station, and is part of a broader plan to develop cycling links within the community.
What natural features can I expect to see along the cycling routes near Retiers?
Touring cyclists can enjoy diverse natural settings, including several tranquil lakes and ponds such as Étang de la Valière, Étang de la Cantache, and Étang de Haute-Vilaine. You can also explore nearby forested areas like Forêt de Chevré and Forêt du Pertre, offering shaded routes and immersion in nature.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks accessible by bike from Retiers?
Yes, the region offers access to several historical and cultural attractions. The charming medieval town of Vitré and Châteaugiron are within cycling reach. You can also visit sites like the La Roche-aux-Fées Dolmen, the Château des Pères Sculpture Park, or the historic settlement of La Guerche-de-Bretagne.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Retiers?
The touring cycling routes in Retiers are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's green routes, tranquil lakes, and varied countryside, which offer a constantly changing backdrop for their tours.
Are there any circular cycling routes around Retiers?
Yes, many routes around Retiers are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. An example is the La Guerche-de-Bretagne loop from Drouges, a moderate 43.4 km path that provides a scenic journey through the local countryside.
Can I access regional cycling networks from Retiers?
Retiers' location within Ille-et-Vilaine provides access to larger regional cycling routes. These include sections of the Vélodyssée along the Nantes-Brest canal, known for its green routes, flower-decorated locks, and tow paths, connecting to character-filled villages and unspoiled nature. For more information on long cycling routes in Brittany, you can visit brittanytourism.com.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Retiers?
Brittany generally offers pleasant cycling conditions through much of the year. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather. The varied landscapes ensure a constantly changing backdrop regardless of the season.
Are there options for family-friendly cycling in Retiers?
Yes, Retiers offers several easy routes suitable for families. The developing cycling infrastructure, including new bike paths and existing green routes, provides safer and more enjoyable options for cyclists of all ages. The Étang de la Forge – L'étang de la Forge loop from La Basse Foucherie is an easy 17 km trail that can be completed in just over an hour, making it a good choice for a family outing.
Is public transport available for cyclists in Retiers?
The new bike path connecting Le Theil-de-Bretagne to Retiers train station is a strategic initiative aimed at promoting sustainable transport and enhancing local connections, including for intermodal travel. This suggests that the train station is a key hub for cyclists looking to combine cycling with public transport.
Where can I find more information about cycling trails in Ille-et-Vilaine?
For additional information on cycling trails and routes within the broader Ille-et-Vilaine department, you can consult resources such as tourisme-marchesdebretagne.com or ille-et-vilaine-tourism.com, which highlight the main cycling routes and greenways in the region.
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