Le Roc-Saint-André: Canal Landscape and Local History

Le Roc-Saint-André stretches along a large bend in the Oust. Small hills shape the landscape to the west, separated by streams. The area also features buildings from several centuries and activities related to the canal, forest and horse riding.

Canal and Landscape

The Ville aux Figlins lock on the Canal de Nantes à Brest is in Le Roc-Saint-André, in the commune of Val d’Oust. The same structure is also known by the name Ville aux Fruglins. The difference in names therefore does not refer to a second lock. Together with the river bend, the canal landscape is one of the practical landmarks for a stay in the town.

Six orienteering courses are set in a natural, enclosed area. It is 90 percent woodland and has no roads.

Trails and Horse-Riding Activities

The towpath along the Canal de Nantes à Brest near Le Roc-Saint-André is suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding. If you are planning a trip, check trail conditions and access in advance, as both can change. This keeps your plans grounded in the specific route rather than relying solely on its general suitability for these activities.

The Étrier du Val Chevrier equestrian centre offers activities ranging from pony lessons for children aged three and up to horse-riding activities. It also offers dressage, show jumping and courses for all levels. Programme details may change, so check the current offering in advance. The centre is near the voie verte, the Canal de Nantes à Brest and a forest. There are trails there for group rides. The horse-riding activities described in Le Roc-Saint-André therefore include both lessons and various equestrian disciplines, as well as trails for rides.

Saint-André Church

The present-day Saint-André Church was built between 1901 and 1903 to plans by Rennes architect Arthur Regnault. It replaced a church dating from 1608. Architecturally, Saint-André is an example of Cornouaille-style Neo-Gothic architecture. Its construction history thus combines a specific period of construction and an earlier building with a clearly identified architectural style.

The church’s location is also part of its description: Saint-André stands on a rocky promontory overlooking the river landscape and houses a Lourdes grotto. The building’s history, architecture and setting come together in a single structure.

Manor Houses and Local History

The Touche-Carné manor house was a former fiefdom of a knightly family and was the origin of a significant village with numerous old houses. Le Roc-Saint-André owes its name to the Chapelle du Rotz. The chapel was built on a rock dedicated to Saint Andrew. The origin of the name thus connects the town’s name with the chapel.

The Château de La Ville Der is a 15th-century manor house; its present-day façade was built in the 17th century. When the château was rebuilt in the 17th century, the tower of the old manor house was incorporated; it is the only remnant of the earlier complex. The structure’s earlier origins and later alterations can therefore be distinguished chronologically.

As of 24 August 2026, the grounds and courtyard of the Château de La Ville Der are accessible year-round and free of charge. Check this access information before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Locmiquelic, Ménéac, Réminiac, Malansac, Le Tour-Du-Parc, Quéven, Plumergat, Brignac.

For the regional travel overview: Morbihan.