Around 50 bird species and more than 100 breeding pairs were recorded in surveys at Les Prairies d’Olivet. The area has been an LPO nature reserve since 2011 and is designated an Espace naturel sensible (ENS) by the department. Wet meadows, walking trails and historic buildings give Montgermont a distinctive character, with nature and cultural heritage each offering a different focus.
Wetlands and walks
Les Prairies d’Olivet comprise a mosaic of wetland habitats: several streams and ponds, floodable woodland, meadows, hedgerows and willow scrub lie side by side. The area therefore includes a variety of habitat types rather than one uniform meadow.
Montgermont has 15 kilometres of footpaths. A walk of around two hours is a way to explore the surrounding countryside. A nature walk takes in LPO nature reserves, while a cultural and historical walk leads to sites classified as historic heritage. The routes thus differ mainly in their focus: the countryside, protected areas or historic sites. If you are planning a specific route, check the latest trail information, as details may change on site.
A green space with a variety of facilities
Since 2019, the Espace Détente has included a large green space with children’s play equipment, a mountain bike course, a signposted running route, picnic tables and a barbecue. The facilities combine opportunities for exercise with space to take a break. Before visiting, it is a good idea to check the latest information about the facilities.
Earthworks, a church and historic estates
The motte at Montgermont is five metres high; its original diameter was 30 metres. It is an example of early medieval earthworks built by noble families. Parts of it still remain to the west and south of the motte.
The Church of Saint-Martin-de-Tours is documented from 1152 and became a parish church in the early 13th century. It was probably rebuilt in the early 15th century on the foundations of the original structure. Its architectural features include the rubble-stone construction characteristic of old rural churches in Haute-Bretagne, a slate spire and a silhouette shaped by successive additions. The Manoir de Galisson is documented from the 15th century; the Manoir de la Boussardière is preserved and restored.
Art and little discoveries
Since 1995, the Salon de l’Aquarelle in Montgermont has welcomed guest artists from the world of watercolour. The event features a watercolour competition open to all and the drawing walk “Croquez Montgermont”. Individual editions and dates may change, so it is best to check them before your trip.
The programme at the Médiathèque L’Embarc@dère also includes “Bébé lit”, “Katulu”, “Ludolire” and “Pouss(ette) café”, as well as occasional seasonal events. Individual activities and dates may vary, so it is worth checking the current programme before visiting.
Since July 2025, Montgermont has had a trail featuring notable letterboxes. A map created by Adèle helps visitors find them. As the trail is still relatively new, check before visiting to make sure it is still available.
Discover more destinations: Pacé, Bonnemain, Les Iffs, La Gouesnière, La Ville-Ès-Nonais, Saint-Aubin-du-Cormier, Saint-Étienne-en-Coglès, Fougères.
For the overview of the wider area: Ille-Et-Vilaine.
