Attractions and Places To See around Kergrist - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Kergrist include historical sites, natural features, and cycling routes. The region offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover castles, canals, and challenging climbs. These diverse attractions make Kergrist a destination for various interests.
Best attractions and places to see around Kergrist
- The most popular attractions is Côte de Mûr-de-Bretagne, a climb well-known to Breton cyclists. This segment is a classic of the Tour de France, featuring a…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Pontivy Castle
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Côte de Mûr-de-Bretagne
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Canal de Nantes à Brest: Pontivy to Mûr-de-Bretagne
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Chapel of Our Lady of the Carmelites
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Guernal lock on the Nantes-Brest canal
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This climb is often used by cycling races, particularly the Tour de France. A fairly long climb (2.2 km) with a very steep first section. Average gradient of 6.55% with a maximum of 15%. https://profils.cols-cyclisme.com/2811.svg
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In view of this Marian shrine, a "Chapelle Notre Dame," I would like to offer the viewer a brief reflection from the important French order founder and Doctor of the Church, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (c. 1090 to 1153). He recommended at the time: "In danger, in doubt, in difficulties, think of Mary, invoke Mary. Do not let her name leave your lips, never let it leave your heart. (...) Under her protection, you have nothing to fear; if she goes before you, you will not tire; if she grants you her favor, you will reach your goal."
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Well-known to Breton cyclists, the Côte de Mûr-de-Bretagne has become a classic of the Tour de France, with its characteristic straight climb. Although short, it can get your thighs burning with more than 500 meters at over 10% and a peak at over 13%.
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Caution: Be careful when descending; the descent can be perilous due to the slope; you can quickly get carried away by the speed. Beware of the speed and crosswind combination with high-profile wheels 😱🫣
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The old castle is now partially open to the public. It looks very defensive.
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The Château de Pontivy, or Château des Rohan, was built between the middle of the 15th century and the beginning of the 16th century for and by the Viscounts of Rohan. Following the codes of Breton military architecture from the end of the 15th century, this castle is one of the last fortified castles to have been built in Brittany. You will notice that the facade allows adaptation to the development of fire artillery, but that particular attention is paid to comfort and decoration. The downspouts are worked, the skylights carved, and the interior of the castle is equipped with fireplaces and latrines, making it a little gem of comfort for the time. Two permanent exhibitions are housed there: one is dedicated to the sculptor Gaston Schweitzer, while the other is a more contemporary installation by Japanese artist Koki Watanabe. I personally loved the contrast offered by this rather austere facade with the charm of the half-timbered houses in the city center, which I invite you to take the time to discover.
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This curved section of the famous Nantes-Brest canal lets you discover the richness of the banks of the Blavet, which flows into the Lorient estuary in Morbihan. You can see that its bed is mainly artificial, and that its course is regulated by an ingenious system of locks. Slightly to the north of Mûr-de-Bretagne, the Guerlédan dam abruptly interrupts its course, thus giving birth to the largest artificial lake in Brittany, the Lac de Guerlédan. The gravelly surface is pleasant for both touring bikes, gravel and even road bikes. I am personally charmed by the melody of the tires on the gravel, so this portion is conducive to meditation and relaxation for me. A real moment of vacation!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Kergrist?
The region offers several significant historical sites. You can explore Pontivy Castle, a fortified castle built between the 15th and 16th centuries, known for its military architecture and adaptations for artillery. Further afield, the impressive Guernal lock on the Nantes-Brest canal, dating from the 1800s, showcases historical engineering. In Kergrist-Moëlou, the Parish Enclosure, including the Notre-Dame de Bon Secours church and its calvary, offers a rich religious heritage. Additionally, the grand Château de Josselin and the unique Château de Kergrist near Ploubezre are also within reach.
Are there any natural attractions or outdoor areas to explore?
Yes, the area boasts beautiful natural features. The Canal de Nantes à Brest offers scenic paths along the Blavet river, leading towards the largest artificial lake in Brittany, Lac de Guerlédan. In Kergrist-Moëlou, you can discover the dramatic Gorges du Toul Goulic with its enormous rock formations, and the extensive Landes de Locarn, the largest inland moorlands in Côtes-d'Armor.
What cycling opportunities are available near Kergrist?
Cyclists will find diverse options. The Côte de Mûr-de-Bretagne is a famous, challenging climb known from the Tour de France, with sections over 10%. For more relaxed rides, the gravel paths along the Canal de Nantes à Brest provide a pleasant route. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options, by visiting the Road Cycling Routes around Kergrist and Cycling around Kergrist guides.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions?
Absolutely. Pontivy Castle is considered family-friendly, offering a glimpse into medieval history. The Canal de Nantes à Brest is also suitable for families, providing safe and enjoyable paths for walking or cycling. The nearby Lac de Guerlédan offers various outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Where can I go hiking around Kergrist?
There are several hiking opportunities, particularly around Lac de Guerlédan. You can find routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'View of Lake Guerlédan – Guerlédan Dam loop from Saint-Aignan' (easy) or the 'Lac de Guerlédan – Kerven Goaz Vioch Washhouse loop from La Gare' (difficult). For a comprehensive list of trails, explore the Hiking around Kergrist guide.
What is the Parish Enclosure of Kergrist-Moëlou?
The Parish Enclosure of Kergrist-Moëlou is an emblematic collection of religious art and architecture in central Brittany. It includes the Notre-Dame de Bon Secours church, largely dating from the 16th century with a 40-meter bell tower and a magnificent painted vault, an ossuary, and a calvary classified as a Historic Monument. It's the largest such enclosure in Côtes-d'Armor. You can learn more about it on the Tourisme Kreiz Breizh website.
Are there any unique chapels in the Kergrist-Moëlou area?
Yes, Kergrist-Moëlou is home to several notable chapels. These include the Saint Lubin Chapel, known for its fountain believed to cure rheumatism, the 15th-century Saint Guillaume Chapel, and the Chapelle de l'Isle, a 14th-century chapel that was rebuilt by volunteers after falling into ruin.
What is special about the Château de Kergrist near Ploubezre?
The Château de Kergrist, often called 'The Pearl of Trégor,' is a historical monument near Ploubezre. It showcases diverse architectural styles from the 15th to the 18th centuries and is surrounded by beautiful French and English-style gardens. The castle has been a classified historical monument since 1929 and offers guided tours of both its interior and exterior.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kergrist?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The challenging climb of the Côte de Mûr-de-Bretagne is a highlight for cyclists, while the historical depth of Pontivy Castle and the tranquil paths along the Canal de Nantes à Brest are frequently praised. The canal, in particular, is noted for its peaceful gravel surface, ideal for meditation and relaxation.
Can I find information about nature preservation in the region?
Yes, in Kergrist-Moëlou, you can visit the Maison des Landes et Tourbières. This institution is dedicated to the preservation of nature and heritage, with a particular focus on the local moorlands and peat bogs, offering insights into the region's unique ecosystems.
Are there any other towns or villages worth visiting nearby?
Beyond Kergrist itself, the town of Pontivy is notable for its medieval old town and is home to Pontivy Castle. The historic town of Josselin, with its thousand-year-old castle, is also within reach. For those interested in religious monuments, Sainte-Anne d'Auray offers an ensemble of significant sites.
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