Malansac offers several ways to explore the area: a trail along the Étang du Moulin Neuf, water sports, traces of its ceramic heritage and routes through the countryside. There are also special opportunities to visit the Château de la Grationnaye and buy local produce at the Marché à la ferme. When planning, it is worth keeping the different distances in mind: from the 3-kilometre circular trail to the 20-kilometre Circuit des Ardoisières.
Water and Trails Around Malansac
The 14-hectare Étang du Moulin Neuf is in the commune of Malansac and borders Pluherlin and Rochefort-en-Terre. A 3-kilometre walking trail circles the pond and is suitable for pushchairs. This makes it easy to combine a waterside visit with a manageable circular walk. Moulin Neuf Aventures offers canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding and pedal boating. These activities are seasonal; check availability if you plan to make them part of your itinerary.
For a longer route, you can follow the 20-kilometre Circuit des Ardoisières on foot or by mountain bike. It offers views of the Grées, the slate hills above the Arz Valley. The Arz Valley is part of a protected Natura 2000 site. The two routes differ considerably in length: the trail around the pond is 3 kilometres long, while the Circuit des Ardoisières is 20 kilometres long.
Ceramic Heritage and Historic Places to Visit
Malansac’s ceramic heritage is represented by the Place des Fours à Pots. The dates 1694 and 1858 can be found at the Église Notre-Dame.
The grounds of the Château de la Grationnaye, with their paths and lawns, are open for self-guided visits. Guided tours of the chapel and dovecote with the owner are also possible. As visiting arrangements may change, check the conditions before your visit. Those interested in historic places can therefore enjoy both a self-guided walk around the grounds and a possible guided tour of specific parts of the château.
Local Produce and Activities
The Marché à la ferme in Malansac sells produce from an organic market garden and local organic producers. The selection includes vegetables and fruit, cow’s, sheep’s and goat’s milk cheeses, bread, galettes, cakes and other sweet treats. There are also herbal teas, meat, loose goods and salt. As opening arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before setting out. The market offers another glimpse of local production, alongside the commune’s countryside and cultural destinations.
At the Ferme équestre Equit’Anime, the activities include themed classes and events, as well as rides around the farm. The centre specialises in riding activities for children aged 18 months to 8 years.
Practical Information
There are two lockable bicycle lockers at Malansac station. They can be used without a reservation; you will need to bring your own lock or bicycle lock. As station facilities may change, check availability before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Damgan, Merlevenez, Questembert, Cléguer, Sulniac, Colpo, Guégon, Campénéac.
For the broader travel guide: Morbihan.
