Castles of the Erdre

After 20 minutes of sailing from Glénac, you’ll reach the Nantes-Brest Canal and can make your first stop at the spot known as “Île aux Pies.” It’s the perfect place for a peaceful first night, with a large, well-equipped pontoon and picnic area. In summer, a canoe rental and small food kiosk are also available. This scenic spot is popular with swimmers, who use the island’s cliffs as natural diving platforms into the canal. For the more adventurous, rock climbing is also possible on the cliffside.

After passing your first lock, moor your boat in the heart of Redon’s marina. Visit the West Inland Waterway Museum, enjoy a guided tour of the abbey and Calvairiennes monastery, or stroll the pedestrian streets lined with half-timbered houses.

Quiet mooring spot with picnic tables and barbecue, near the Canal House, a small guest lodge.

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 picturesque stop along the Nantes-Brest Canal. Visit the 12th-century Château de la Groulais (near the port), enjoy a gourmet meal at the château’s restaurant, or join summer medieval-themed activities. Several walking trails start from the port.

Just before reaching the Erdre, stop at Quiheix. Travel north leads through wild, reed-lined landscapes to Nort‑sur‑Erdre; going south brings you to the natural haven known as the “Plaine de Mazerolles.” A few more kilometers and you’re back in Sucé‑sur‑Erdre.

Another Riverly network water base is located in the small port of Sucé-sur-Erdre. This pleasant stop is on a river renowned for its 17 castles, known as the “Nantes Follies,” built by wealthy merchants and shipowners to showcase their social rise. The best way to view them remains from your boat: nothing blocked the châteaux owners’ view of the Erdre Valley,today it’s your turn to enjoy these elegant gems from the water.

Your river cruise concludes in Nantes, the historic capital of the Dukes of Brittany. Moor your boat at the Île de Versailles, a lovely Japanese garden centrally located in the city. With a tram stop just a few meters away, you’ll have easy access to all the city’s major sights. Known as Naoned in Breton, Nantes’ history unfolds at the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. History buffs shouldn't miss the 12th-century Saint Peter’s Cathedral. For something unusual and elegant, visit the Pommeraye Passage, a covered shopping arcade built in 1840. Family-friendly sites include the planetarium, the Jules Verne Museum, and the famous Machines de l’île. Afterwards, return to your boat to cruise back up the Erdre, along the Nantes–Brest Canal, and finally the Aff, returning to your departure point: the Glénac marina.