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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Guerande.
Nestled amidst the lush green landscape of the Loire-Atlantique region, Guerande is a treasure trove of enchanting sights and delightful experiences waiting to be explored.
From strolling through the cobbled streets of the old town to discovering the secrets of the iconic salt marshes, this medieval gem promises an unforgettable journey filled with surprises and wonder.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Guerande:
1. Guerande fortified city
Guerande is a charming fortified city located on the western coast of France, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history as a salt-producing region.
What to see or do: Walk along the impressive medieval ramparts surrounding the city and take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the winding cobblestone streets and admire the Gothic-style Saint-Aubin church.
Check out the Salt Marshes Museum to learn about the region’s salt industry, which has been a fixture of Guerande’s economy for centuries.
Don’t miss: Take a guided tour of the salt marshes to see the traditional salt harvesting techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Sample some of the local specialties, including Guerande salt, caramel candies, and crepes. Visit during the summer months to catch the annual Medieval Festival.
Insider travel tips: Try to time your visit for the late afternoon or early evening, when the crowds have died down and the golden light makes the city even more gorgeous.
If you plan to explore the salt marshes, wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as the weather and terrain can be unpredictable.
Parking can be a challenge in the summer months, so arrive early or consider taking public transportation.
2. Saint Aubin Collegiate Church
Saint Aubin Collegiate Church is a historic church located in the heart of Guerande, a charming medieval town in western France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the church’s stunning Gothic architecture, including its beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and soaring vaulted ceilings. You can also explore the church’s small museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts, including a 16th-century altar.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch a glimpse of the church’s impressive organ, which features more than 1,600 pipes and dates back to the 18th century.
You also won’t want to miss the ornate tomb of Jean V, Duke of Brittany, located in a side chapel of the church.
Insider travel tips: – On summer evenings, the church hosts candlelit concerts that provide a rare opportunity to appreciate its acoustics and atmosphere.
3. Salt marshes of Guerande
The salt marshes of Guerande are located in the western part of France, in the Loire-Atlantique department. It is a protected natural area spread over an expanse of 2,000 hectares, renowned for its traditional salt farming techniques.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours around the salt marshes to discover the techniques used to extract salt, known locally as “white gold”.
The tours also provide an opportunity to see the varied birdlife that inhabits the marshes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on purchasing the locally-produced fleur de sel (flower of salt) which has a delicate taste and is harvested by hand from the marshes.
The area is also home to Guerande, a charming medieval town that is worth exploring.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is from June to September when the salt production is at its peak. Try to opt for tours in smaller groups to ensure a more personalized experience.
While visiting the town of Guerande, consider exploring the old town center and the stunning Gothic-styled Collegiate Church.
4. The Castle of Carrouges
A medieval castle located in the town of Carrouges, in the Loire region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive architecture, including its drawbridge, moat, and towers. Inside the castle, you can visit the Great Hall, the Lord’s Chamber, and the Chapel.
There are also beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
Don’t miss: Check out the castle’s museum, which showcases medieval weapons, armor, and everyday objects. The castle also hosts regular events, including medieval festivals and outdoor theatre performances.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during the summer months when the castle hosts regular events. If you’re interested in history, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s fascinating past.
Additionally, the nearby town of Guerande is worth a visit for its beautiful salt pans and old-world charm.
5. The Briere Regional Nature Park
The Briere Regional Nature Park is a protected wetland area in western France, located near the town of Guerande.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy boat rides through the canals and marshes of the park, observe a wide variety of wildlife and birds, go hiking or biking on the numerous trails, and learn about the history and traditions of the Briere area at one of the many museums and cultural sites.
Don’t miss: A visit to the small village of Kerhinet, which has been preserved as a living museum of traditional Breton architecture and culture.
Also, the town of Guerande with its medieval ramparts and salt marshes is worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, wear appropriate footwear for walking on wet ground, and plan to spend at least a full day in the park to fully appreciate its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
6. Pen Bron Beach
Pen Bron Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the town of Guerande in the Loire-Atlantique department of France.
What to see or do: This secluded beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
The white sand, clear blue water, and unspoiled natural scenery make it a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk along the beach and explore the beautiful rock formations that dot the coastline.
You can also visit the historic Pen Bron Hospital, which was a tuberculosis sanatorium in the early 20th century and is now a holiday retreat center.
Insider travel tips: – Pen Bron Beach can be difficult to access, so consider renting a car or bike to get there.
7. Batz-Sur-Mer
Batz-Sur-Mer is a charming coastal town in the Loire-Atlantique region of western France. It is situated on the north coast of the Guerande peninsula, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture.
What to see or do: Visit the La Grande Plage for a day of sun, sand, and sea. Explore the town’s historic center with its 16th-century church and picturesque streets lined with colorful houses.
Take a walk along the Chemin des Douaniers, a scenic coastal path with panoramic views of the ocean and salt marshes.
Stop by the weekly market to sample some of the region’s delicious local produce.
Don’t miss: The charming fishing village of Le Croisic, just a few kilometers away. It features a picturesque harbor, charming streets, and plenty of seafood restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Head to the Port de la Turballe, the largest fishing port in the region, to experience the bustling daily fish market and sample the freshest seafood.
Be sure to try some of the famous muscadet wine, which is produced in the surrounding vineyards.
8. La Turballe port
La Turballe Port is a charming fishing port located in the town of La Turballe, just a short drive from Guerande.
What to see or do: The port offers a picturesque setting to stroll around and admire the traditional fishing boats that are still in use by the local fishermen.
You can also take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands of Belle-Ile-en-Mer, Houat, and Hoedic.
Don’t miss: Make sure to sample some of the local seafood specialties such as oysters, clams, and mussels which are freshly caught daily.
Insider travel tips: Visit the port early in the morning to experience the hustle and bustle as the fishermen come back from their nightly fishing trips.
Also, try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season as the port can get quite crowded. And don’t forget to bring your camera as this is one of the most photogenic spots in the region.
9. La Baule beach
La Baule is a famous seaside resort town in the Loire-Atlantique department of western France, known for its long sandy beach and Belle Époque architecture.
Guerande is a nearby medieval walled town.
What to see or do: The main attraction of La Baule is its stunning 9-kilometer-long beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. There are also plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants to enjoy.
In Guerande, visitors can walk along the ramparts and explore the historic town center.
Don’t miss: In La Baule, don’t miss the view from the top of the Clock Tower in the center of town or the colorful beach huts that line the shore.
In Guerande, don’t miss the impressive salt marshes and the weekly market that takes place within the medieval walls.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting La Baule outside of peak season (June-August). In Guerande, try the local speciality, Kouign-amann, a delicious buttery cake.
Take a tour of the salt marshes and learn about the traditional salt harvesting techniques.
10. The Escal’Atlantic Museum
The Escal’Atlantic Museum is an immersive maritime museum located in the historic shipyard of Saint-Nazaire, France. The museum tells the story of ocean liners from the turn of the 20th century to the present day.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fully restored ocean liner, the SS Normandie, and learn about her luxurious accommodation and extravagant events.
There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what life was like aboard these grand vessels, including a simulated ship bridge and engine room.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the opportunity to go below deck and explore the crew quarters and engine room of the SS Normandie, offering a glimpse into the often-overlooked realities of ocean liner travel.
Insider travel tips: The museum can get busy during peak season, so arrive early to avoid crowds.
Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket that includes entry to both the Escal’Atlantic Museum and the nearby shipyard tour for a more comprehensive experience.
11. Domaine de Rochevilaine
A luxurious hotel and spa located in Guerande, France.
What to see or do: Relax and unwind with spa treatments overlooking the ocean, explore the nearby beaches and quaint town of Guerande, or indulge in fine dining at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the ocean from the hotel’s terrace and the stunning sunset over the Bay of La Baule.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary bicycle rentals to explore the stunning surrounding area, and be sure to try the local specialty, salted butter caramel.
12. Church of Notre-Dame-de-La-Baule
Church of Notre-Dame-de-La-Baule is a grand historic church located in Guerande, France.
What to see or do: The church boasts stunning Gothic architecture with intricate stained glass windows and beautifully carved stone sculptures. Visitors can explore the ornate interior and take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive 15th-century altarpiece, which depicts scenes from the life of Christ and is considered a valuable piece of religious art.
Also, be sure to check out the charming chapel of Sainte-Anne.
Insider travel tips: – There are guided tours available if you want to learn more about the history and significance of the church.
13. Pornichet Beach
Pornichet Beach is a stunning sandy stretch of coastline located in the town of Pornichet, in the western part of France.
What to see or do: The beach offers plenty of opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing.
There’s also a long promenade perfect for walking and cycling, as well as various beach clubs and restaurants to enjoy some delicious seafood.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to experience some of the most beautiful sunsets in the area. The colors of the sky and the sea create an incredible ambiance that you won’t forget.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit during the peak season, it’s better to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Also, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong during the summer months.
14. Regional Heritage Museum
The Regional Heritage Museum in Guerande highlights the history and culture of the region, particularly the unique salt marsh industry.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits showcasing the traditional salt-making techniques and the tools and equipment used in the process. You can learn about the history of Guerande and the surrounding area through artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of the museum is its panoramic view of the salt marshes, which is accessible through the rooftop terrace.
You can also observe the salt harvesters at work from here.
Insider travel tips: – Guided tours are available for groups and can provide a more in-depth understanding of the history and importance of the salt marshes.