From Île aux Pies to the 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.

You leave the Nantes–Brest Canal to enter the Erdre River, heading toward Nantes. The Erdre has become famous for its “Châteaux de l’Erdre” , 17 châteaux within just 15 km , also known as the “Nantes follies.” These architectural gems were built by shipowners who made fortunes in the slave trade. Today, these 17 pearls are beloved by boaters navigating the calm waters of the Erdre, just outside Nantes. Your Brittany river cruise ends after 4 days of sailing. You can return to the Glénac base using the shuttle service offered by the marina.