Josselin and the Brocéliande Forest

Josselin is a pretty little character town, emblematic of the area and an important stopover on the Route des Ducs Tourist Route. The history of the town is inextricably linked with that of its castle whose imposing towers are reflected in the waters of the River Oust. Founded in the early 11th century, the Flamboyant-Gothic castle is an extremely interesting example of feudal and Renaissance styles of architecture. It still belongs to the Rohan family, one of the oldest families in Brittany, who founded it and still live there.  Take time to stroll around the castle gardens, designed by Achille Duchesne, a landscape gardener who also worked at Vaux-le-Vicomte. Josselin is a great place for a family day out. The medieval Sainte-Croix district has delightful narrow streets of fine half-timbered houses and a pretty chapel. The neighbourhood, which is on the other side of the river, is as old as the castle itself and was restored in 2006.  The famous Basilica of Notre Dame du Roncier has fine stained-glass and recumbent statues which are well worth seeing. The Bois d’Amour, a leafy park in the town centre, is a super place for picnic. And a visit to the Musée des Poupées (doll museum) is an amazing experience. Carry on along the Canal – River Oust to another thousand year old character village, Malestroit. It is worth noting that the Nantes-Brest Canal can be explored on foot, by bike (Eurovéloroute 1 and Voie Verte 3), by canoe and by boat ! The nearby character village of Lizio is also well worth seeing while a little to the north, the huge Forêt de Lanouée is a great place to pick mushrooms and chestnuts in autumn while listening out for the roar of rutting stags at nightfall.

Unless you are a cycle tourist or come by boat along the Nantes-Brest Canal, coming by car from Guerlédan or Pontivy, take the RN24 from Rennes and then exit at Paimpont, Ploërmel and Josselin. We can’t wait to see you !!"