Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac highlight its position as a key entry point to the Brière Regional Natural Park. This commune in the Loire-Atlantique department offers a variety of natural features and local heritage sites. The area is characterized by its vast marshlands, providing diverse ecosystems and opportunities for outdoor exploration. It serves as a gateway to the second-largest marsh area in France.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac
- The most popular attractions is Serpent of the Ocean, an outdoor art installation that is a 130-meter-long sculpture of a sea serpent skeleton. This work of art, created by Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping, appears with the rhythm of the tides.
- Another must-see spot is Rozé Port and Viewpoint, a viewpoint and historic port. The belvedere offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Brière marshes from its 28-meter height.
- Visitors also love Saint-Nazaire Bridge, the longest bridge in France. It is over 3,350 meters in length and connects Saint-Nazaire with Saint-Brevin-les-Pins.
- Saint-Malo-De-Guersac is known for its natural features, historical sites, and outdoor art installations. The area offers diverse ecosystems and opportunities for wildlife observation and exploration.
- The attractions around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 425 upvotes and 179 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Serpent of the Ocean
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Saint-Nazaire Bridge
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Tumulus of Dissignac
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Rozé Port and Viewpoint
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Saint-Nazaire Submarine Base
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Avant le début de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, le port de Saint-Nazaire est l'un des plus vastes de la côte Atlantique française. L'armée allemande arrive à Saint-Nazaire en juin 1940. L'U-46 de la 7. Unterseebootsflottille est le premier sous-marin allemand à rejoindre Saint-Nazaire, le 29 septembre 1940.
Une mission de l'organisation Todt (Oberbauleitung Süd) inspecte le port dès décembre 1940, afin de déterminer les possibilités de construction d'une base sous-marine afin de protéger ses sous-marins des bombardements aériens anglais. La base est construite à la place du bassin de retournement de la Compagnie générale transatlantique.
Les travaux s'effectuent en plusieurs étapes de 1941 a 1943 pàr 1 502 travailleurs et 3 166 requis.
Entre fin 1943 et début 1944, une écluse protégée est construite dans l'alignement de la base afin de permettre l'accès au bassin ou à l'estuaire de la Loire. Elle mesure 155 m de long, 25 m de large, 14m de haut et est équipée, sur son toit, de dispositifs de quatre cuves pour canons Flak.
Les dimensions sont de 300 m de longueur, 130 m de large et 18 m de haut pour une surface d'environ 39 000 m² et un volume de béton coulé estimé à 480 000 m³.
L'épaisseur du toit est d'environ 8 m.
Par ailleurs, la base est équipée de 62 ateliers techniques, 97 magasins de stockage, 150 bureaux, 92 chambres pour les équipages, 20 stations de pompage, quatre cuisines, deux boulangeries, deux centrales électriques, un réfectoire et un bloc opératoire.
En septembre 1944, la base est déclarée « Festung » par Hitler. Tenue par les troupes du Generalleutnant Junck, elle résistera jusqu'à la fin de la guerre. Le 8 mai 1945, l'U-255 du commandant Helmut Heinrich quitte Saint-Nazaire. Seul l'U-510 du commandant Alfred Eick est capturé par les Alliés. Réarmé par la Marine nationale, il deviendra le "Bouan".
Après-guerre, le quartier de la base a longtemps été laissé à l'abandon. C'est pourquoi, en 1994, la municipalité de Saint-Nazaire décide de lancer le projet « Ville-Port » destiné à réhabiliter la zone de la base qui n'est alors qu'une vaste friche industrielle.
fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Base_sous-marine_de_Saint-Nazaire
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The Saint-Nazaire U-boat bunker is one of five German U-boat bases built on the French Atlantic coast during World War II. The 301-meter-long bunker was built in just 16 months in 1941/42 using almost half a million cubic meters of concrete. Several hundred men were stationed here until May 1945; offices, workshops, and a medical center were housed under the roof, which was up to 9.60 meters thick. It was built on the site of the former overseas port from which steamers departed for Central America.
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High viewpoint over the Briére marsh
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This megalithic tomb, built around 4300 BC, is the oldest monument in Loire Atlantique, dating back over 6,000 years.
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I, who am not very comfortable in gusts of wind, admit that I have not yet dared to take the plunge.
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To do in different seasons to see the evolution of the marsh.
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It takes a bit of courage to ride up there next to the roaring traffic when you're standing in front of the huge bridge. A cyclist coming towards me rang my bell - we said hello - and off we went. I prayed not to get a flat tire on this bridge - everything went well. There is no alternative to crossing the Loire at this point. But I'm still not sure whether there was a sign below prohibiting pedestrians and cyclists 🧐
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Unfortunately we didn't see it when we arrived (30.8.24) in the rain. The next day, when it was humid and dry, we were able to marvel at this enormous animal.
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Departure point for the free bus transfer in Saint-Brevin-des-Pins. In July and August, a bus with a bike trailer crosses the bridge every hour. It is not recommended to cross the bridge with a bike, particularly because of the crosswinds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac?
Saint-Malo-De-Guersac is a key entry point to the Brière Regional Natural Park, the second-largest marsh area in France. You can explore diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife. A notable spot is the Réserve Ornithologique Pierre Constant, a 25-hectare reserve at Port de Rozé, offering equipped pathways to observe marsh fauna like spoonbills and egrets. The area also features Les Jardins d'Errand, showcasing the richness of the Grande Brière marsh territory.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit?
Yes, you can visit the Tumulus of Dissignac, a 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound. Guided tours are available, typically in July and August. Additionally, the Neo-Gothic Church in the town center is a local landmark, affectionately known as the 'petit Mont Saint-Michel de la Brière' due to its prominent rooster at 51 meters.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Brière marshes?
For exceptional panoramic views, head to the Rozé Port and Viewpoint. Its belvedere offers a 360-degree view of the Brière marshes from a height of 28 meters, accessible via 128 steps. There's also a ground-level periscope for those who prefer not to climb.
What unique outdoor art installations are in the area?
You can discover the Serpent of the Ocean, a 130-meter-long sculpture of a sea serpent skeleton by Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping. This outdoor art installation, part of the Estuaire contemporary exhibition, appears with the rhythm of the tides.
Are there cycling routes near Saint-Malo-De-Guersac?
Yes, the area offers several cycling opportunities. You can explore sections of the Loire à Vélo route, such as the section between Corsept and Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, which is a dedicated bike trail along the river. For more options, check out the Cycling around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac guide, which includes routes like the 'Island of Fédrun – Rozé Port and Viewpoint loop'.
What running trails are available in the region?
Runners can find various trails around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac. Popular options include the 'Rozé Locks loop' and the more challenging 'Island of Fédrun – Rozé Port and Viewpoint loop'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Running Trails around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac guide.
Is the Saint-Nazaire Bridge worth visiting?
The Saint-Nazaire Bridge is France's longest bridge, spanning over 3,350 meters and connecting Saint-Nazaire with Saint-Brevin-les-Pins. While not directly in Saint-Malo-De-Guersac, it's a significant landmark nearby, especially for cyclists. A shuttle service with bike trailers is available during certain months for crossing.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Malo-De-Guersac?
The Brière marshes and surrounding attractions are particularly appealing during spring and autumn for birdwatching and enjoying the natural landscapes. Summer months (July and August) are ideal for visiting historical sites like the Tumulus of Dissignac, which offers guided tours during this period. Visiting the Rozé Port and Viewpoint in different seasons is recommended to observe the marsh's evolution.
Are there family-friendly activities in Saint-Malo-De-Guersac?
Many of the natural attractions are suitable for families. The Réserve Ornithologique Pierre Constant offers equipped pathways for easy exploration and wildlife observation. The Tumulus of Dissignac can be an educational visit for older children, especially with a guided tour. The Serpent of the Ocean is also a fascinating outdoor art piece that can captivate children.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in the Brière Regional Natural Park?
The Brière Regional Natural Park, accessible from Saint-Malo-De-Guersac, is perfect for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy birdwatching, walking along marsh pathways, and cycling. The park's vast marshlands offer opportunities for exploring diverse ecosystems and observing local fauna. Consider exploring the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Malo-De-Guersac guide for specific cycling tours within the wider region.
Is there public transport or parking available for attractions?
While specific details for each attraction's public transport access vary, many sites in the Brière Regional Natural Park are best reached by car. Parking is generally available at major points of interest like Port de Rozé. For the Saint-Nazaire Bridge, a shuttle service with bike trailers operates during peak season from specific parking areas.
What makes Port de Rozé a significant place to visit?
Port de Rozé is a significant natural and historical site. Beyond hosting the Réserve Ornithologique Pierre Constant, it was historically a bustling port and a center for shipbuilding in the 18th century. Today, it offers a tranquil setting for observing marsh life and is home to the Rozé Port and Viewpoint, providing stunning vistas.
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