Plélauff: Locks, a chapel and Breton culture

Travelers can explore Plélauff through several specific themes: the locks on the Nantes–Brest Canal, sacred art and Breton culture. If you are looking for a hotel in Plélauff, these highlights can help you plan your stay around your interests. The canal represents more than just a number of structures: its history also includes former port and trading activities. The chapel, church and dance tradition add distinct cultural themes to this focus.

Plélauff on the Nantes–Brest Canal

Six locks lie along the roughly 11-kilometre stretch of the Nantes–Brest Canal in Plélauff, including Kerlouët and Bon-Repos. The Bon Repos lock complex bears witness to the canal’s former port and trading activities, which were connected to the nearby Forges de Salles and abbey. The Bon Repos road bridge was built in the 17th century and adds historical context to the canal area. A kayak launch is located at the Bon Repos lock complex, on the opposite bank of the lock.

Circular routes and getting around the canal

Circular walking and cycling routes run along the canal in Plélauff. The towpath starts at the Bon Repos road bridge and follows the left bank. Picnic tables are available for a break at the Voie Bleue. As the tables require local maintenance, it is advisable to check their condition before stopping. Parking motorhomes along the canal is tolerated; there is also a picnic area there.

Sacred art and Breton culture

One notable artistic landmark is the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix, which dates from 1485. The chapel houses an exceptional polychrome wooden jubé (rood screen). Its animal frieze depicts the seven deadly sins. This offers two distinct points of interest for exploring the building’s history and furnishings: the year 1485 and the frieze’s imagery. The church of Saint-Pierre also has a striking feature: three bells stand outside at the entrance, at human height; before that, they hung for a long time between two yew trees. The two examples offer different perspectives: the jubé brings together material, colour and a specific image; at Saint-Pierre, the bells and their former hanging place take centre stage. This lets you choose between cultural interests focused more on furnishings or on the history of an object.

Kost ar c’hoad is a traditional Breton gavotte in 8/8 time associated with Plélauff. Unlike the chapel, church and canal structures, the name points to a dance tradition. If you would like to consider regional culture as well as buildings when choosing a destination, this offers another specific focus for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Ruca, Saint-Alban, Plestin-Les-Grèves, Plerin, Tréfumel, Corseul, Guitté, Langueux

See the broader travel guide: Côtes-D’armor.