Cycling along Brittany's towpaths – Nantes-Brest Canal

In 1904, Napoleon commissioned a canal between Nantes to Brest in a bid to free western Brittany from the blockade imposed by the English. The immense feat of engineering was completed 38 years later. Today, the canal has become the perfect way for cyclists to explore the heart of Brittany.

For more than 300 kilometres (180 mi), the towpaths that run alongside the canal have a gentle gradient. At the heart of an unspoilt itinerary are the stunning succession of locks and their houses. In days gone by, the guards lived here and manoeuvred each boat through. Nowadays, many of them have been taken over by private individuals who live there or sometimes run a small business.

During your journey, keep your eyes peeled as wildlife-spotting opportunities are abundant. Centuries-old trees offer valuable shade, while the water and vegetation provide shelter and cover for many species of bird. At dawn or dusk, you can often spot deer prancing between the hedgerows.

Interestingly, the canal stops at Châteaulin in Finistère, rather than Brest as its name suggests. In the past, the calm of the inlets was enough for boats to navigate. You can always get to Brest by bike, but note that cycle paths are fewer there and the gradient in this particular part of Brittany is steeper.

To kick off this Collection, I invite you to head to Nantes, easily reached by daily trains from Paris or Lyon. At the end of the journey, you can hop on a train from Châteaulin to Brest, then change for Rennes or Paris. In all cases, make sure you book a train on which you can take your bicycle ("TER" or "Intercités" trains). Be careful during the high season, as additional charges may apply for transporting your bike. Ask at the station for more information.

This Collection along the Nantes-Brest canal comprises six stages of around 50 to 80 kilometres (30 - 50 mi). It has been carefully planned so that each day ends in a town or village with at least one campsite and a range of shops. If you prefer to camp, the locks and towpaths are full of places to pitch your tent. However, bear in mind that some lock houses are inhabited. Don't forget to pitch your tent out of sight.

The climate in Brittany is accommodating but sometimes rainy. All year round, make sure you wear appropriate clothing, whether for the pouring rain or the scorching sun. On the towpaths, you can travel on any type of bicycle. For your comfort, don't hesitate to opt for fairly wide tyres, and don't forget to pack a repair kit.

Enjoy your trip!

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In this Collection, I refer to the notes in my notebook. Find out more on my blog: simonwicart.com (in French).