Laillé: Discover nature, trails and heritage

Laillé between nature and history

When choosing a stay in Laillé, you can focus on different aspects, including nature, trails and local history. To find a hotel, it helps to first consider whether you would like to explore the landscape and routes or focus on historical sites during your stay.

Natural setting and landscape

Laillé is characterized by a landscape of hills and valleys. To the west, Laillé is bordered by the Vallée de la Vilaine. The valley forms a natural boundary between Laillé and Guichen for 3.5 km. Its natural heritage includes 17 ecologically significant natural areas (MNIE), connected by two major ecological corridors (GEN). They are home to rare or threatened animal species, including the yellowhammer, European nightjar and red-backed shrike. Two perspectives complement each other: hills and valleys describe the terrain, MNIE and GEN the ecological connections, while the three species mentioned give a specific example of the area's wildlife.

Trails and views

The Circuit de la Chapelle is a hilly, wooded route in Laillé. The other two circuits mentioned here differ in their location relative to the town centre: the Circuit de la Vallée runs to the south, while the Circuit du bourg follows the edge of the centre. Both offer views of the Vallée de la Vilaine and Rennes. This offers a simple way to compare them: the Circuit de la Chapelle stands out for its terrain and woodland, while the other two are distinguished by their location relative to the centre; their views overlap.

The GR39 crosses the Vilaine and then climbs to the heights of Laillé. Near Laillé, various viewpoints offer views of the Vilaine valleys. For cyclists, the 31 km “Vélo Promenade – La Vallée de la Vilaine” cycle route is another option; it also climbs to the heights of Laillé. The routes can be compared by different features: the GR39 is notable for its course and viewpoints, while the Vélo Promenade is defined by its length. Check route details before setting out, as conditions may vary.

History and traditions

The oldest traces of human presence in the Laillé area date back to around 4000 BC. The Menhir de la Roche qui Chôme was erected by the first farmers; around 1869, it was toppled during a search for treasure. The historical perspective thus extends from early human presence in the area to a specific event involving the menhir in the 19th century.

The pilgrimage to Le Désert began around the 17th century. Every 15 August, a procession connects Laillé town centre with the Chapelle du Désert; it remains an ongoing tradition. The Saint-Michel festival also continues to be one of the highlights of Laillé's events calendar. If you would like to plan your trip around this festival, check the specific event dates before making arrangements.

Discover more destinations: Betton, Treffendel, Plesder, Bonnemain, Chauvigné, Lanhélin, Gaël, Thourie

For the broader travel overview: Ille-Et-Vilaine.