Picking up our walk from where we left off yesterday, the chateau in Josselin, Morbihan, France, is located on the Brest Canal & Oust river.
If you love to bike, you should definitely explore France on two wheels along the extensive canal system in this country. I first purchased a bicycle while living in Beaune, Bourgogne. I used to explore the famous wineries of Burgundy, traveling north through the vineyards up to Nuit Saint Georges for an Epoisses burger at the famous Star Tavern. Or I’d wind my way south to Santenay and sip white wine on the terrace of Le Terroir.
If it all sounds terribly romantic, well, it is. Riding through France is the perfect and ideal way to travel slowly, letting the countryside slip by, picnicking, and taking in the treats that unfold before you.
But the canal systems make it extra special for several reasons. The paths are flat, very navigable, and well-marked, with clear signage and information along the way. Traveling next to the water is a treat, but you also get to meet a lot of other travelers along the way, either on foot, boat, or bike.
The residents who live along the canals are used to this transient lifestyle, and some offer watering holes, artwork, tokens, and treasures to purchase; you can even find restaurants and food carts.
When Pearl came along, we purchased a covered children’s trailer, and we’d tow her along behind the bike, allowing her to take in the scenery from the comfort of her dog bed. As she became used to the rides, we started to take longer excursions and worked our way up to overnight rides as we explored the Rance river in Cotes d’Armor.
From the city of the Dukes up to North Finistère, the Nantes to Brest canal crosses right in the center of Brittany. It is over 360 kilometers long and has 236 locks. The boats you see in this video are available for hourly rental. I also suggest this spot for picnics!
Bisous and big hugs from France,
Shannon