Piriac-sur-Mer
Piriac-sur-Mer
Located in Loire-Atlantique, the town of Guerande reveals itself as a Medieval city with captivating charms. Its stone ramparts, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses transport visitors to another era, while its salt marshes offer a striking spectacle. Far from the urban bustle, Guérande invites you to stroll and discover an authentic heritage. Throughout this article, we offer you seven must-see places to see during your stay in this exceptional city!
Nestled in the heart of the Guérande peninsula, the salt marshes extend over approximately 2 000 hectares. They offer a striking spectacle of rectangular basins which come in shades of blue, green and pink according to the tides and the sun. This unique landscape, shaped by the hands of men for centuries, is home to ancestral know-how passed down from generation to generation. Since the Middle Ages, the paludiers work tirelessly to the salt harvest, a valuable product once used as currency.
The Guerande salt marshes are a must-see site for nature and heritage lovers. Many guided tours allow you to discover the secrets of salt farming and meet salt workers who are passionate about their profession. On the hiking trails walking and cycling also offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique landscape and enjoy the wild beauty of the peninsula.
Proudly overlooking the region, the medieval city of Guerande offers a journey through time, to the heart of Breton history. Supervised by its majestic ramparts, this fortified city, nicknamed the “Carcassonne of the West”, has retained its old-world charm and invites you to stroll through its cobbled streets.
There is no shortage of entertainment in the medieval city of Guérande. Throughout the year, events and shows punctuate the life of the city. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of knights’ tournaments, craft markets or music festivals that will transport you to the heart of the Middle Ages. Don’t hesitate to get lost there to enjoy its unique atmosphere.
A true emblem of the medieval city of Guérande, the Porte Saint-Michel stands out as an unmissable monument for any visitor. This imposing fortified structure, dating from the 14th century, was once used as the main entrance to the city. Today, it houses a fascinating museum which traces the history of Guérande and its surroundings.
Once through the door, let yourself be transported by the Guerande Museum. Through varied collections and temporary exhibitions, you will discover the rich and complex history of the city, from its Celtic origins to its peak in the Middle Ages. You can also learn more about salt exploitation, which made Guérande’s fortune for centuries.
Located on the main square, in the heart of the medieval city, theSaint-Aubin Collegiate Church is areligious building of great architectural and historical wealth. Its history dates back to the 6th century, when the first church was built under the impetus of chef breton Waroch. Over the centuries, the church has experienced several transformations and enlargements, to become the collegiate that we admire today.
As you approach this impressive building, let yourself be seduced by its carved facade and its slender spiers which dominate the landscape. As you enter inside, you will be amazed by the beauty of the colorful stained glass windows, majestic vaults and precious works of religious art that adorn its walls.
The Ranrouët Castle, located near Guérande, is an impressive historic site which evokes the region’s medieval past. Built in the 13th century, this fortified castle was once a centerpiece of the defense of the Guérande peninsula. Although the castle is today largely in ruins, its partially preserved towers and walls still bear witness to its glorious past.
You will be able to stroll through the remains of the inner courtyard and explore the old lordly homes, imagining daily life in the Middle Ages. The guided tours will allow you to learn more about the fascinating history of the castle and on the events that have marked its existence over the centuries.
Located a few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, in the heart of the Guerande peninsula, theBrière Regional Natural Park extends over more than 55 000 hectares. It is the second largest marsh in France after the Camargue. The Brière Park is made up of numerous canals, rivers and meadows, creating a unique and fascinating landscape. It is home to a wealth of flora and fauna.
The Parc de la Brière offers activities for all tastes. You can stroll on foot, by bike or by boat on the canals, observe birds in their natural environment, take part in craft workshops or even follow a guided tour.
Forget the busy seaside resorts and let yourself be charmed by the wild beauty of the Guérande coast. Between Le Croisic and Le Pouliguen, stretches a preserved coastline where rocky cliffs, secret coves and small fine sandy beaches one after the other. Go for a day of stroll along the hiking trail that borders the coast and admire spectacular panoramas. Do not hesitate to stop in one of the picturesque villages which mark the coast. The stone houses and flower-filled streets will charm you with their authenticity.
For the bravest, you can continue walking untilLa Baule-Escoublac, a seaside resort renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches. During the day, enjoy the pleasures of the beach: swimming, relaxation, water sports… or stroll through the busy city center streets. In the evening, taste local products in one of the many restaurants, enjoying the sunset and the festive atmosphere.
