Naipablaak: 23.05.2022
On Saturday, May 21, 2022, at half past eight, you are almost alone on the roads in Nantes. It becomes clear how wide the bike paths are built. At the beginning, I ride along the Erdre River for a while, then the path changes to a larger road until I switch to the path along the 'Canal de Nantes à Brest' after about 20 km. The paths are very well built, mostly made of solid sand, sometimes asphalt. There are locks along the way, sometimes with a small restaurant. Sometimes the canal becomes a natural waterway and much wider. Just before the destination, Redon, I see the sign 'Chateaubriant', but I don't follow it, I ride towards the accommodation. The hotel is located next to a large shopping center, but within walking distance of the city center.
On May 22, 2022, I follow the 'Canal de Nantes à Brest' again. I arrive in Josselin around 1 pm, where I take a lunch break. The big castle is visible from afar. To reach the town, I ride up the hill for a few meters, which is definitely worth it. The destination in Rohan is about 20 km away, where I stay at Villa Tranqillite. I arrive too early, but the village is naturally closed because it is Sunday. I make myself comfortable in front of the villa, and around me, there are 2 peacocks walking proudly, which can already be heard early in the morning. I have signed up for dinner, and there are two other people present. The start of the meal takes a bit long, but it was good. As the name suggests, one should not be stressed here.
On May 23, 2022, breakfast is scheduled for 8:30 am, I am probably not calm enough, as the lady slowly starts to prepare everything. The weather is a bit weak, it is drizzling, so it doesn't matter so much. I cannot agree with all the reviews for the B&B. The ride to Saint Brieuc ends up with over 900 meters of elevation gain, so it is quite hilly up to the north coast. Maybe it is because today I am not using the official bike path, but mostly small side roads. The bike path would have been about 110 km long, but with the direct route, it is only about 65 km. The official route winds far away in the countryside, so I choose the direct one. The city of Saint Brieuc is not quite by the sea, but about 80 meters high on a hill. It takes an effort to visit the harbor, which I do briefly, and then for the return trip. The city has certainly seen better days, many shops and even houses in the pedestrian zone are empty or in very poor condition.
Route taken