Arzal: Hiking Trails, the Vilaine and Mills
Accommodation in Arzal
Trails through the landscape and local history
When planning a trip, Arzal offers several distinct highlights: circular trails lead from Lantiern to the Vilaine or through the area around Bourgerelle and Moustoir, while other paths explore varied landscapes. At the Barrage d’Arzal, the lock and the movement of the water take centre stage, while the mills add a historical note. If you’re looking for a hotel in Arzal, these themes can help you decide what to focus on during your stay.
The Circuit des Coteaux de Vilaine circular trail is just over 8 kilometres long. It runs from Lantiern to the Vilaine and passes mills on the slopes. The Circuit de l’Estuaire is 10.5 kilometres long and loops around Bourgerelle and through Moustoir; it offers a remarkable panorama over the Vilaine estuary.
The Cosca botanical loop is 2.5 kilometres long, making it considerably shorter than the two circular trails described above. The route passes through a sunken lane, an orchard, heathland, a marsh, former salt meadows and a forest. This gives you a choice of both different route lengths and varied landscapes.
Arzal also has three interconnected walking trails. Along them, you can discover mills, bread ovens, crosses, wells, thatched houses and varied landscapes. They offer another way to explore the area alongside the named circular trails: the features mentioned range from buildings and local details to different landscape types.
When comparing the routes, two practical criteria stand out: their respective lengths and the features described along the way. The distances give you an idea of the scope of each route; the mills, the panorama over the estuary and the succession of landscapes at Cosca indicate their different highlights.
The lock and boating
The Barrage d’Arzal is about 500 metres long, has five gates and includes a lock. Visitors can watch boats pass through the lock, stroll by the water and observe fish migrating. This brings together engineering in action, a waterside walk and nature watching in one place.
The Port d’Arzal-Camoël provides access to boating on the Vilaine in both fresh water and at sea. Navigation rules and operating procedures can change. From Arzal, Les Vedettes Jaunes offers sightseeing cruises on the Vilaine. As schedules and routes may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before planning your trip.
Mills and views
The Moulin de Séréac adds a specific chapter of mill history. The windmill was built in 1653 to produce flour and remained in operation until 1950.
On the estuary’s banks in Arzal, you can enjoy beautiful views. The light at sunrise and sunset is especially notable. Alongside the routes and buildings, the views and time of day offer different highlights.
Discover more destinations: Sainte-Anne-D'auray, Guégon, Carnac, Berric, Languidic, Cournon, Saint-Thuriau, Plumelec.
For the regional travel overview: Morbihan.
