The Rance valley
From Camping La Ville Huchet, your campsite in Saint-Malo, the Rance valley offers a veritable voyage of discovery, between estuary, changing panoramas and granite villages full of character.
We like to guide our holidaymakers to these cherished corners, because the Rance reveals a gentler, more intimate Brittany, ideal for those who want to take the time to stroll. In this article, we take you on an exploration of the most beautiful villages and viewpoints, easily accessible during your vacation in Saint-Malo, where each walk tells a new story about the area.
From peaceful shores and picturesque harbors to quiet paths winding along the water’s edge, there’s everything you need for an unforgettable ride. And best of all: the adventure begins right next door to the campsite.
Saint-Jouan-des-Guérets: a gentle stroll from the campsite
From Camping La Ville Huchet, we suggest you start your discovery of the valley in Saint-Jouan-des-Guérets. The bike path is easy and pleasant, and takes you straight to the Vallion beach, a place we recommend for its tranquility.
It’s not a bathing beach (the silt reminds us that the Rance is still a maritime river), but that’s exactly what makes it the perfect place to stroll, listen to the birds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of Saint-Malo.
A picnic table awaits you for a break with your feet almost in the water. It’s an ideal, gentle and accessible way to start exploring the valley’s better-known villages. A breath of fresh air at the start of your walk.
Saint-Suliac: one of France’s most beautiful villages
You can’t help but be charmed by Saint-Suliac, voted the Most Beautiful Village in France, and believe us, it’s well deserved. As soon as you arrive, the charm is on you: an authentic Terre-Neuvas village, turned towards the sea, where the granite houses create a typically Breton decor. The walk along the harbor is one of our favorite spots.
On one side, the Rance River opens onto the estuary; on the other, the stone facades take on golden hues in the light. The alleyways are steep, so you’ll have to be prepared to climb a little, but it’s this relief that gives the village its identity.
At the far end of the harbor, the nautical center offers activities such as sailing, and in summer, Saint-Suliac comes alive with festivals and events that create a warm, friendly atmosphere. It’s a village that exudes true Brittany.
Pleudihen-sur-Rance: a peaceful atmosphere at Mordreuc beach
In Pleudihen, we’re particularly fond of the Mordreuc beach, a little jewel still little-known to passing visitors. Here, the atmosphere is soft and tranquil, perfect for families and young children who like to play in the sand or soak their feet in complete safety. The view over the estuary is superb, open and conducive to contemplation. What really appeals to holidaymakers is the peacefulness of the place: you’ll often come across a few locals, walkers and, above all, kayakers and paddleboarders who enjoy direct access to the Rance. It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle, and that’s exactly what makes Mordreuc so pleasant. A simple, authentic little stopover, just the way we like it.
Saint-Samson-sur-Rance: the first lock on the Ille-et-Rance canal
A little further south, Saint-Samson-sur-Rance marks the transition between the estuary and the Ille-et-Rance canal, thanks to its first lock. The atmosphere here is very special: you slowly leave the maritime part behind and enter a greener landscape, punctuated by diversion bays, calm banks and paths winding along the canal.
The passing barges create a timeless atmosphere, and the banks are perfect for a short break. It’s also the perfect place to start your canal bike tour, as this lock is the symbolic entrance to this mythical ribbon of water.
Léhon: a picture-postcard village by the canal
Léhon is simple: everything about it is beautiful. Every time we return, we fall under its spell. Classified as a “Petite Cité de Caractère”, this little town has all the makings of a postcard setting: the cloister of the abbey, the arrival on the canal with its view of the arches, the little granite bridge spanning the river…
Every corner invites you to slow down and contemplate. It’s an ideal village for a leisurely stroll, where heritage and nature coexist in harmony. Following the towpath, you’ll then follow the canal in a serene atmosphere, until you reach the superb finish towards Dinan. Léhon is a real gem, and we recommend it to all our holidaymakers.
We recommend a stop at “Café Gloutons”, located between the canal and the abbey. When the weather’s nice, we sit in the gravel courtyard, which is decorated and has a beautiful view. They serve a wide range of cakes and hot and cold drinks.
Dinan: a magical arrival via the port
Arriving in Dinan via the canal is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful moments of a stroll through the Rance valley. From Léhon, the towpath unfolds a peaceful ambience before offering, almost at once, a postcard-perfect backdrop: the old houses lining the water, the old bridge, the lively quays and the viaduct dominating the entire valley.
The port is a warm and inviting place to take a break, have a drink or simply enjoy the scenery. And if you’d like to continue your discovery, we invite you to read our article dedicated to Dinan, where we guide you through the upper town, its medieval streets and emblematic viewpoints. The arrival at the port is the gateway, and is one of the panoramas we most like to share with our guests.
After a busy day exploring the Rance valley, its charming villages, quiet harbors and beautiful walks along the river, it’s great to be back at Camping La Ville Huchet, your 4-star campsite in Saint-Malo. Here, you can really take a breather: enjoy a moment of relaxation, make yourself comfortable in your accommodation, share the day’s discoveries and prepare for the next.
We like to offer our guests a place where they can feel at home, relax and enjoy the beauty of the region. And if you’re already thinking about your next holiday, all you have to do is choose your accommodation to take full advantage of these unique landscapes.
So, are you ready to set off and discover this magnificent valley? We at the campsite have the bikes ready for you.