The best MTB trails around Landéan

The famous rock alignment known as the Druids' Line is as intriguing as it is fascinating. What are eighty quartz blocks doing, stretching over three hundred meters, in an area where this type of stone doesn't exist? Was it a religious or pagan practice? To date, no researcher has found the answer. The Druids' Line follows a general north-northeast orientation, despite numerous meanders. This type of alignment, in a single line, is quite rare in Brittany. It is mistakenly called the Druids' Line, as it is not a Celtic installation, dating back to the Neolithic period. (Source: https://www.destination-fougeres.bzh)

It has been located in this place since the Neolithic period.

The Desnos Tower is a medieval defensive tower dating back to the early 15th century. It is one of the few remaining towers of the northern city wall and was originally part of the fortifications of the "Bourg-Neuf," the newer district above the castle. It probably owes its name to Colin Desnos, a citizen of the city on whose land the tower was built. Over the centuries, the Desnos Tower served various purposes: initially for defense, later as a prison, and in the 19th century as part of a shoe factory.

The Jardin du Val Nançon stretches picturesquely along the Nançon River, framing the northern city walls of Fougères with lush greenery. Covering approximately two hectares, various themed areas invite exploration. This includes a botanical garden, the "Priest's Garden," a reference to the remains of an ancient abbey, a so-called "plant cage," and a colorfully landscaped slope. Of particular note is the contemporary glass art sculpture "L'œuvre à la vie" by Louis-Marie Catta from 2000, which represents peace and dialogue between cultures.

The bell tower, also called the belfry, was built by the townspeople in 1397 and is considered the oldest surviving building of its kind in Brittany. Architecturally, it is based on Flemish models that the cloth merchants of Fougères had encountered on their travels. The tower's largest bell is named "Roland Chapelle." In the past, the belfry served not only as a bell tower, but also as a fire watchtower and town hall. Today, the tower offers visitors impressive views of the medieval old town and its surroundings.

The Église Saint-Léonard was built in the 12th century and acquired its present form in the flamboyant Gothic style in the 15th and 16th centuries. During the French Revolution, the church was deprived of its sacred function, but in the 19th century, under architects such as Aristide Tourneux, it underwent extensive renovations, including a new main façade with a large rose window. Inside, 19th-century stained-glass windows depicting episodes from the life of Saint Léonard can be seen.

Dominated by one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, Fougères boasts magnificent ramparts, towers, and a perfectly preserved historic center. From the heights, the view takes in the Nançon Valley and its half-timbered houses, offering beautiful perspectives. It's an ideal stop along the Régalante to immerse yourself in Breton history before hitting the road again.

Nice trail in the forest