The best running trails around Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché

There are over 110 running routes around Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. These include easy paths, moderate trails, and more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.

Yes, Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché offers 8 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed pace. These trails typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings without excessive challenge.

The running routes in Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché feature diverse terrain, including forest paths, lakeside trails, and routes through steep gorges. You'll encounter varied elevations, especially in areas like the Poulancre Valley, offering both flat sections and more challenging climbs with rewarding panoramic views.

For those seeking longer runs, Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché has 20 difficult routes, many of which cover significant distances. An example is the Landroannec Cove – Landroanec Beach loop from Guerlédan, which is 16.9 km long and offers expansive views around the lake.

Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché is unique for its well-preserved natural environment, including the Natura 2000 classified Poulancre Valley with its rich flora and fauna, and five significant lakes. The commune is also recognized as a '4-flower' village, ensuring a beautiful and well-maintained setting for your runs.

Yes, many of the running routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Landroanec Beach – Landroannec Cove loop from Guerlédan is a popular moderate 14 km circular path winding along the lake shore and through woodlands.

Absolutely! The region is dotted with lakes like Poulancre, La Martyre, and the larger Lac de Guerlédan. Many routes offer stunning water views, such as those around the Étangs de la Martyre-Poulancre, or the Sainte Tréphine Chapel – View of Lake Guerlédan loop from Guerlédan, which provides excellent vistas of the lake.

While jogging, you might encounter historical sites like the 17th-century Manoir de Poulancre near Poulancre Lake, or the reconstructed Saint-Gilles Church in the village. The area also features natural highlights such as the dramatic Poulancre Gorges and the various lakes. You can also explore highlights like Bon-Repos Abbey or the Guerlédan Dam.

Yes, the Forêts du Quelennec and other forested areas provide excellent shaded routes. Many trails, particularly those around the lakes like the Shaded trail along Lake Guerlédan, offer natural canopy, making them more comfortable for running during sunny or warmer days.

The running routes in Saint-Gilles-Vieux-Marché are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from around 20 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil forests to scenic lake views, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various fitness levels.

While not directly within the commune, the nearby Canal de Nantes à Brest passes through the region, offering flat, meditative paths along its gravelly surface. This provides an excellent option for runners looking for a consistent, even terrain away from more challenging inclines.

Given the extensive network of over 110 routes, it's possible to find less crowded options, especially outside of peak times or by exploring some of the less-trafficked forest trails. The region's natural beauty ensures a peaceful experience even on popular routes, but venturing slightly off the main paths can offer more solitude.