Pléven: Hiking, Nature and Heritage

Pléven combines hiking trails with natural sites and historic buildings. When looking for a hotel in Pléven, you can match your plans to these different highlights: Would you like to explore trails along Lac d’Arguenon, stroll by a pond, or learn about the history of the area? The destinations described here offer specific points of reference.

Hiking Trails Around Lac d’Arguenon

A marked, 19-kilometer circular hiking route around Lac d’Arguenon starts in Pléven. The “Lac et forêt” route begins in the town center and leads to the lake and the forest of Château de la Hunaudaye. Along the way, it offers views of Lac d’Arguenon and passes historic landmarks. The “Tour du lac de l’Arguenon” also starts in the town center. Its trails run along both shores of the lake: Pléven is on the left bank, while Plorec-sur-Arguenon is on the right. These routes offer different points of reference to help you choose: the 19-kilometer distance, the combination of lake and forest, and the route along both shores.

Lake and Protected Natural Sites

Lac d’Arguenon is an artificial lake covering 200 hectares and surrounded by forest. Its diverse flora includes wood anemones, violets, and wild hyacinths; birds found at the lake include cormorants, grey herons, and black-headed gulls. Zander, large perch, whitefish, and carp are also found in the lake. The fish species and sizes present may vary seasonally.

Étang de la Nauvinais is in the municipality of Pléven, between the forest and Château de la Hunaudaye. A protected natural area for recreation and fishing was created where there was once a sand quarry. A landscaped circular path and boardwalks for walkers run along the shore. The Étang is therefore a distinct natural site with a shore path and boardwalks; Lac d’Arguenon, by contrast, is defined by its size, surrounding woodland, and the plants and animals found there.

Buildings and History

The Bourgs Heussais are considered the largest early medieval motte, dating from the 11th century. The Church of Saint-Pierre in Pléven was built in 1880–1881 to plans by the architect Le Coz. A chalice and a paten in the church were listed as protected cultural heritage on April 15, 1966. The historic sites therefore highlight both an early medieval motte and church architecture and the protection of cultural heritage.

The Manoir de Vaumadeuc also has a history as a tourist destination: in 1960, it was restored and opened to the public as a luxury hotel. The family associated with Vaumadeuc continues to restore and care for this heritage site. Check whether a visit is possible before you travel.

Lookout Point at Barrage de l’Arguenon

A lookout point near Barrage de l’Arguenon in the municipality of Pléven offers views of the structure. Information panels explain its history, construction, and operation. For safety reasons, the dam itself is not open to visitors; the lookout point offers the opportunity to view the structure from the outside and learn more about its history.

Discover more destinations: Loguivy-Plougras, Plerin, Gouarec, Quessoy, Plémy, Dolo, Saint-Cast-Le-Guildo, Perret

For the main travel overview: Côtes-D’armor.