La Nouaye Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of La Nouaye and experience the charm of Brittany, France. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best things to do, see, and eat in La Nouaye. Click here to start planning your trip today!


Introduction to La Nouaye

Nestled in the heart of Brittany, France, La Nouaye is a picturesque village that is rich in history and natural beauty. It sits on the banks of the Vilaine River and is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and expansive meadows. From scenic hiking routes to cultural landmarks, La Nouaye has something to offer everyone.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the best things to do, see, and eat in La Nouaye. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week-long stay, this guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming village.

List of Places to Visit in La Nouaye

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château de Boutavent: This enchanting 16th-century castle is steeped in history. The château boasts an impressive collection of artwork and period furniture, giving visitors a glimpse into the life of the wealthy aristocrats who once lived here. Guided tours are available.

  • Église Notre-Dame: This beautiful Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Visitors can admire the intricate stonework and stunning stained glass windows as they explore the church.

Natural Attractions of La Nouaye: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Vilaine River: The Vilaine River is a serene and peaceful spot that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes and paddle along the river, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

  • Les Etangs d’Apigné: These beautiful lakes are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Visitors can admire the stunning views and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of La Nouaye

  • La Nouaye Circular Route: This scenic hiking route takes visitors through the heart of La Nouaye, offering views of the village and the surrounding countryside. The route is suitable for all levels of hikers and takes approximately two hours to complete.

  • The Vilaine River Path: This easy, flat trail follows the Vilaine River and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Visitors can admire the beautiful scenery and stop at charming riverside cafes and restaurants along the way.

Best Things to Do in La Nouaye: Activities and Tours

  • Wine and Cheese Tasting Tours: Brittany may not be famous for its wine and cheese, but it has some hidden gems that are worth discovering. Visitors can take guided tours of local vineyards and cheese makers and sample some of the region’s best produce.

  • Horseback Riding: Experience the stunning Brittany countryside on horseback. Visitors can take guided tours through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for La Nouaye

Day Activity
1 Explore La Nouaye: Visit the Château de Boutavent, Église Notre-Dame, and enjoy a picnic by the Vilaine River
2 Hike the La Nouaye Circular Route and enjoy a wine and cheese tasting tour
3 Horseback riding through the Brittany countryside
4 Visit neighboring town of Rennes: Explore the historic city center and enjoy local cuisine
5 Take a day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel: Visit the stunning abbey and enjoy the surrounding beach town
6 Kayak along the Vilaine River and enjoy a riverside lunch
7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Les Etangs d’Apigné

Food and Drink Scene of La Nouaye

Must-Try Dishes

  • Galettes and Crêpes: These traditional savory and sweet pancakes are a must-try in Brittany. Galettes are made with buckwheat flour and served with a variety of fillings, while crêpes are made with wheat flour and served with sweet toppings like sugar, jam, and chocolate.

  • Seafood: Brittany is renowned for its fresh seafood, and La Nouaye is no exception. Visitors can enjoy locally caught fish and shellfish, such as oysters, mussels, and scallops.

Local Beverages

  • Cider: Brittany is one of France’s biggest cider-producing regions, and visitors can enjoy local ciders made from a variety of apple and pear varieties.

  • Chouchen: This traditional Breton drink is a mead made from honey and water, and is a must-try for visitors looking for a unique local beverage.

Where to Stay in La Nouaye: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Château de la Nouaye: This charming 19th-century château offers unique accommodation for visitors looking for a luxurious stay. The château combines traditional French elegance with modern amenities and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Le Petit Gîte: This cozy guesthouse offers affordable accommodation for visitors who want to experience La Nouaye’s charm and natural beauty. The guesthouse is located in the heart of the village and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in La Nouaye: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery: Brittany is famous for its unique pottery, which is often decorated with traditional Celtic designs. Visitors can purchase handmade pottery from local artisans in La Nouaye.

  • Cidre de Rhuys: This local cider is made from a blend of apples grown in the Rhuys Peninsula and is a must-try for visitors looking for a unique local product.

Local Culture and Customs of La Nouaye

La Nouaye is a small village with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can expect to experience the warm hospitality and friendly atmosphere that is characteristic of Brittany. The village celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fête de la Saint-Jean in June and the Fête de l’Automne in October.

Best Time to Visit La Nouaye

The best time to visit La Nouaye is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm and sunny. The village is also beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom, and in the fall when the leaves turn golden and red.

Do’s and Don’ts of La Nouaye

Do:

  • Try the local delicacies: From galettes and crêpes to seafood and cider, La Nouaye offers a variety of delicious local specialties that visitors should try.

  • Respect local customs: Brittany has a strong regional identity and visitors should be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Expect everyone to speak English: While many locals speak some English, visitors should not expect everyone to be fluent in the language.

  • Forget to bring comfortable shoes: La Nouaye is a village that was made for walking, so visitors should ensure they bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.

Safety and Health

Safety in La Nouaye

La Nouaye is a safe and welcoming village, and visitors should not encounter any major safety concerns. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in La Nouaye

La Nouaye has a well-equipped medical center and visitors should not encounter any major health concerns. However, visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance and consult a doctor before traveling if they have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to La Nouaye: Transportation Options and Logistics

La Nouaye is located approximately 20 km from Rennes and is accessible by a range of transportation options.

Airports Near La Nouaye

  • Rennes Airport: This airport is located approximately 25 km from La Nouaye and offers domestic and international flights.

  • Nantes Airport: This larger airport is located approximately 130 km from La Nouaye and offers a wider range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near La Nouaye

  • Rennes Bus Station: This is the closest major bus station to La Nouaye, located approximately 20 km away.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car: Visitors can rent a car from nearby airports or train stations, making it easy to explore the surrounding area independently.

How to Get Around in La Nouaye

La Nouaye is a small village that is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can rent bicycles from local rental shops, or explore the village on foot.

Where to Go Next from La Nouaye: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rennes: The bustling Breton capital is located just 20 km from La Nouaye and offers a range of historical and cultural attractions, as well as excellent restaurants and cafes.

  • Mont-Saint-Michel: This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site is located approximately 100 km from La Nouaye and is one of France’s most iconic landmarks.

Conclusion

La Nouaye is a hidden gem that is worth discovering for anyone who loves natural beauty, history, and culture. With a range of attractions and activities, as well as easy access to other nearby destinations, La Nouaye has something to offer everyone. Click here to start planning your trip today!