The best cycling routes around Mernel
4.3
(133)
1,148
riders
75
rides
Touring cycling around Mernel features routes that traverse river valleys, rural landscapes, and areas with historic mills. The terrain primarily consists of gentle gradients suitable for cycling, with some routes incorporating more challenging sections. The region's waterways, such as the Vilaine river, are central to many of the cycling paths.
Best touring cycling routes around Mernel
- The most popular touring cycling route is Pont-Réan – Le Boël loop from Lohéac, an 89.3 miles (143.8 km) trail that takes 8…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.7
(23)
178
riders
156km
09:38
900m
900m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(48)
312
riders
129km
07:55
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1.0
(2)
6
riders
36.9km
02:21
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
10
riders
116km
07:06
860m
860m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
21.7km
01:52
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This former watermill, documented as early as 1089, was initially used as a fulling mill before being converted into a flour mill in the 19th century. Its operation ceased on December 31, 1974. Since then, the building has stood as a significant heritage landmark, marking the industrial and riverine history of the Vilaine Valley.
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In 832, Conuvoion, a Breton monk, founded the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur in Redon with the support of the Carolingian Emperor Louis the Pious. A small rural community slowly grew up around the abbey. During the Middle Ages, the town benefited from its location on the Vilaine River, as trade goods could be transported upstream to Redon on ocean-going vessels. There, the goods were transshipped and transported further on inland waterway barges towards Rennes, the capital of Brittany. In the 19th century, Redon experienced another period of prosperity with the construction of the Nantes-Brest Canal. Even today, the old shipowners' houses and the large harbor basin bear witness to its history as a trading port.
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I count 3 of them
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The cycle path along the Vilaine is truly a MUST! It runs directly along the river and has many locks. At each of the locks, there are beautifully maintained guardhouses, some of which are even kitsch. The cycle path doesn't stray more than 10 meters from the river and has a very well-maintained surface. I had the pleasure of following it for over 40 kilometers.
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Redon has managed to retain its quiet, small-town character, despite its intense activity (and traffic). Following the floods of 2024, the campsite is closed. The pedestrian street is pleasant and not overcrowded with shops. Just what you need. A visit to the port is also a pleasant experience.
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Hello everyone, The bridge has been dismantled for two years, undergoing repairs in the navigation workshops. I hope to see it again one day.
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Superb bivouac spot!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Mernel?
There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Mernel, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 13 easy routes, 29 moderate routes, and 21 difficult routes.
Are there any family-friendly or beginner cycling routes in Mernel?
Yes, Mernel offers several easy routes suitable for families and beginners. An excellent option is the Guipry-Messac Mill – Church and village of Loheac loop from Lohéac, which is 30.5 km long and takes about 1 hour 52 minutes to complete, passing through historic mills and village scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Mernel's touring bike trails?
The terrain around Mernel primarily features gentle gradients, making it suitable for touring cycling. Routes often traverse river valleys, rural landscapes, and areas with historic mills. While many paths are relatively flat, some routes do incorporate more challenging sections with greater elevation changes.
Are there any circular touring bike routes around Mernel?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Mernel are loops. For example, the Pont-Réan – Le Boël loop from Lohéac is a popular circular route following river paths and rural roads. Another option is the Vilaine Loop – Le Boël loop from Lohéac, which offers extensive views of the Vilaine river.
What are some scenic viewpoints or interesting landmarks along the cycling routes?
The Mernel area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along the routes, you can discover landmarks such as Uzel Rock, the historic Guipry-Messac Mill, and the Saint-Senoux Church. The Montserrat Chapel also offers scenic views.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Mernel?
While Mernel can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling. The weather is typically milder, and the natural landscapes are vibrant with seasonal colors. Summer can also be great, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Mernel?
The touring cycling routes in Mernel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the river paths, and the charm of the historic mills and villages encountered along the way.
Are there any routes suitable for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge?
Yes, Mernel offers several difficult routes for experienced riders. The Pont-Réan – View of the Pont-Réan mill loop from La Chapelle-Bouëxic is a challenging 112.1 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience for those looking for a longer, more demanding ride.
Where can I find parking and access points for the Mernel bike trails?
Many routes around Mernel start from towns like Lohéac or La Chapelle-Bouëxic, which typically offer public parking facilities. Specific parking information can often be found on the individual route pages on komoot, or by checking local municipality websites for designated parking areas near trailheads.
Are there any moderate-difficulty touring routes available?
Yes, there are 29 moderate routes in the Mernel area. A good example is the Uzel Rock – Guipry-Messac Mill loop from Lohéac, which is 36.8 km long and takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes. This route offers a balanced challenge with scenic views.
What should I bring for a touring cycling trip in Mernel?
For touring cycling in Mernel, it's advisable to bring appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, water bottles, snacks, and basic repair tools. Depending on the season, layers of clothing are recommended. Always carry a fully charged phone and consider downloading offline maps from komoot, especially for longer routes.
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