Pacé: Walking Trails, Nature and Cultural Heritage

When planning a trip to Pacé, walking trails, architectural history and connections with nature take centre stage. The trails vary in length and character; there are also historic buildings, the weekly market and the natural area at the former quarry near Pont Amelin. If you are considering Pacé as a destination for your stay, these different themes can help you weigh up your own interests.

Walking trails and the Flume

All four of Pacé’s walking trails start at the Vieux Pont, also known as the Pont de Pacé. They range from 4.5 to 16 kilometres in length. This gives you a clear way to choose by distance: alongside trails of up to 16 kilometres, there is the shorter 4.5-kilometre option. La Flume is also 4.5 kilometres long and is located in the centre of Pacé. The circular trails were renovated in 2024.

Their shared starting area at the bridge connects the walking trails with a landmark structure spanning the Flume. In the Bois de Champagne, a footbridge allows pedestrians to cross the river from one bank to the other. If you plan your visit around the Flume, you can consider both the walking trails and a specific river crossing as themes for your stay.

Bois de Champagne and nature near Pont Amelin

The Bois de Champagne covers five hectares. Its many small paths are suitable for walking and hiking. The distances of the four walking trails and the many small paths in the woods offer different ways to choose an activity: you can compare trail lengths or focus on the woodland area, with its paths and the Flume.

Another connection with nature can be found at the former quarry near Pont Amelin. Its three former extraction areas are now three ponds, where amphibian species have found refuge. The former sandstone quarry is one of the ecologically most significant habitats in the Pays de Rennes. The smooth newt is also found in the former quarry area and is described as the rarest species in Brittany. This regional classification refers to the Pays de Rennes; the ponds and the smooth newt also offer specific nature themes within Pacé.

Bridge, church and architectural history

The Vieux Pont sur la Flume near Pont de Pacé is 45 metres long and has three arches. It has been classified as a Monument historique since 29 April 1971. Its length, arches and protected status offer different historical points of interest. The architectural history of Saint-Melaine Church spans several centuries: part of the south wall dates from the 11th century, while the nave and chapels date from the 15th century. In the south-eastern chapel, a keystone bears the coats of arms of the lords of La Touche from the Millon family.

The manor houses and Château de la Glestière also add to the architectural history. Le Logis may date from the transition between the 16th and 17th centuries. Its described features include an L-shaped floor plan, an external stair tower and small square corner towers. La Touche Milon got its name when the Milon family became owners of the estate in the second half of the 15th century. Château de la Glestière was built in 1655 and is classified as a Monument historique. Together, these buildings represent different periods and features, so their history is not limited to a single building.

Weekly market and Aquaouest

Pacé market takes place every Wednesday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm in the town centre, at Place Saint-Melaine. Traders and producers gather there, and organic and regional products are also available. If the market is part of your travel plans, schedule your visit for Wednesday morning and check the date in advance.

Aquaouest is an intercommunal aquatic and wellness centre in Pacé, which opened on 2 July 2025. Along with the market, walking trails and architectural history, it broadens the range of themes you can consider when deciding to visit Pacé.

Discover more destinations: Grand-Fougeray, Roz-Landrieux, Billé, Sixt, Redon, Saint-Étienne-en-Coglès, Parigné, La Baussaine

For the overview of the wider area: Ille-Et-Vilaine.