Top 6 Lakes around Saint-Gelven

The primary and largest body of water in the region, formerly encompassing Saint-Gelven, is Lac de Guerlédan. This artificial lake, the largest in Brittany, is approximately 12 kilometers long and is a central feature of the landscape, bordered by the Quénécan forest.

Lac de Guerlédan is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even water skiing. There are numerous hiking trails, including a full tour around the lake, and 12 marked mountain biking circuits. For more detailed route information, you can explore options like hiking around Saint-Gelven or gravel biking around Saint-Gelven.

Yes, Lac de Guerlédan features several developed beaches perfect for families. Landroannec Cove, for instance, has a small beach and is crossed by the path that goes around the lake. Another popular spot is Landroanec Beach, a charming bay ideal for relaxation and swimming.

For panoramic views, the View of Lake Guerlédan highlight offers exceptional vistas. Additionally, the Tregnanton site provides outstanding views of the lake, especially appealing to ramblers and photographers. The Shaded trail along Lake Guerlédan also features magical viewpoints.

The area around Lac de Guerlédan is rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century Cistercian Abbey of Bon Repos, which now hosts contemporary art exhibitions. The hamlet of Forges-des-Salles, one of Brittany's oldest steel industry sites, is also nearby. The Électrothèque de Guerlédan museum details the history of the dam's construction and its role in generating electricity.

Absolutely. There are numerous hiking trails around Lac de Guerlédan, including a full tour that typically takes about two days to complete. The Shaded trail along Lake Guerlédan offers great single tracks for hiking or running with magical viewpoints over the lake.

The Guerlédan Dam is a significant hydroelectric dam constructed between 1923 and 1930 on the Blavet river, creating Lac de Guerlédan. Its construction submerged 17 locks and houses of the Nantes-Brest Canal. It's an impressive structure, and you can often go to its foot to admire it, with superb views from lake level.

The trails around Lac de Guerlédan offer diverse terrain. You'll find winding paths through the undergrowth of the Quénécan forest, alongside shimmering waters, and areas with schist rock and lush greenery. Some sections, like those near Tregnanton, feature moorland, gorse, and slate formations, providing a varied and scenic experience.

Yes, anglers will find Lac de Guerlédan a rewarding spot. The lake offers opportunities to catch various fish species, including pike, perch, and zander.

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The silence of the woods, the stunning views over Lac de Guerlédan, and the opportunity for active recreation like hiking and water sports are often highlighted. The small beaches and coves, such as Landroannec Cove, are also popular for relaxation.

Beyond the expansive lake itself, the region is characterized by the majestic Quénécan forest, which borders Lac de Guerlédan. The geological features include schist rock and slate formations, particularly noticeable in areas like Tregnanton, which contribute to the unique landscape.