A peaceful little town in the Erdre Valley, Sucé-sur-Erdre is the perfect starting point for your river cruise, allowing you to discover by boat the 17 châteaux nicknamed the “Nantes Follies.” These elegant residences were built by wealthy Nantes merchants during the dark period of the transatlantic slave trade. Today, they are privately owned and admired by many boaters,whether in canoes, stand-up paddleboards, small sailboats, license-free riverboats, or on cruise boats offering onboard meals.
The first stop of your river cruise on the Erdre. Moor at Île de Versailles, a small island transformed into a Japanese-style garden. From this peaceful haven in the heart of Nantes, you have access to the entire “City of the Dukes of Brittany.” Nantes,Naoned in Breton,is a historic city full of charm, with its many landmarks: the Cathedral of St. Peter (12th century), the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery... and of course, the famous “Machines de l’Île” attraction and the “Voyage à Nantes,” a discovery trail blending art, culture, sports, and gastronomy throughout the city. After exploring this vibrant destination, continue your journey northward along the Erdre.
Your cruise on the Erdre brings you to the junction with the Nantes to Brest Canal, where you’ll pass your first manual lock , the Quiheix lock.
From the port, walk to the Château de la Groulais (built in 1108), where you’ll find a gourmet restaurant and medieval events in summer. Hiking trails also start nearby.
Stop by the Kerisac Cider House, swim in the pool with water slides, or enjoy mini-golf next to the mooring. Nearby: a restaurant and a crêperie.
A peaceful stop with picnic area and barbecue spots, near the “canal house” guesthouse.
A town under 10,000 inhabitants deserving a stop for its Nantes–Brest canal history at the Western Boating Museum. Guided visits are available to the abbey and Calvairiennes monastery. Be sure to sample the local cuisine.
A charming and highly touristic village with flower-filled streets. Known for the Yves Rocher Center & spa, it’s also a “village of artisans” where for over 35 years craftsmen have worked wax, clay, wood, glass, and flowers to create high-quality items.
A small and tranquil village, Glénac’s riverside stop lies in a marshy area (a “mortier”) where wildlife and flora thrive. Bird lovers,bring your binoculars! This marks the final stop of your river cruise through Brittany.
| Routes | Boats |
|---|
Close to the Nantes Airport