Messac Messac 7 Night Itinerary Take advantage of our low deposits and secure your boating vacation today with just a 25% deposit. 2nd payment (up to 50%) is due by December 31st, 2024. Balance due 90 days before departure. Gold Trusted Service Award Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience. Rosette With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water. Boat We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people. Life buoy That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.

7nt Messac RETURN via Malestroit (for Josselin)

7 nt Messac RETURN via Malestroit (for Josselin)
7 nights | 172.40 KMs | 18 locks | Approx. 26 hrs of cruising

Combine a journey on both river and canal and experience the region’s famous château at Josselin on this 7 night suggested itinerary. It also takes in the Benedictine abbey in Redon, active adventures at l’Île aux Pies, the characterful artisan village of La Gacilly and plenty of time to enjoy boating, passing through locks and the abundance of beautiful scenery along the way.

Suggested Itinerary

Arrive at base

2pm – 5pm

After you have arrived and checked-in, we’ll show you to your boat as quickly as possible. Spend time settling in, freshen up and await your pre-departure briefing which will be given by one of our base technicians. They will familiarise you with the boat’s domestic systems and give you a hands-on demonstration of the boat controls and how to operate it. They will make sure you are comfortable and confident controlling the boat, as well as navigating the waterway, before you set off.

Arrive Messac
Messac

Explore Messac

5pm – 6:30pm

While part of your crew is settling on the boat, you can take the opportunity to buy groceries a quick 5 minute car ride away from the base at Super U Guipry. We’d recommend buying enough provisions to have lunch on board tomorrow, as there is litttle in the way of lunchtime restaurants on the first stretch of river. 

Dinner at La Minoterie, Messac
La Minoterie, Messac

Dinner at La Minoterie, Messac

7:30pm – 9:30pm

We recommend dining at La Minoterie for excellent cuisine at good value for money in magnificent surroundings. For bookings: +33 2 99 34 76 22 | minoterie-guipry.fr

Overnight in Messac

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

Messac > Beslé-sur-Vilaine map

Messac > Beslé-sur-Vilaine

9am – 12noon

Approx. 3hrs | 2 locks

Lunch on board, Beslé-sur-Vilaine

12noon – 1:30pm

Break up your day of cruising by mooring up at this sleepy village for a lunch on board your boat – maybe fire up the barbecue if your boat has one (or if you’ve added one to your booking)?

Beslé-sur-Vilaine > Redon map

Beslé-sur-Vilaine > Redon

1:30pm – 4pm

Approx. 2hrs 30mins | 0 locks

Redon
Redon

Explore Redon

4pm – 6pm

You’ll be back in Redon on day 6, when you’ll have more time to explore all the sites here. But, as you have a little time to kill before dinner today, we’d recommend you stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely walk alongside the River Vilaine.

Dinner at Auberge des Marais, Redon
Auberge des Marais, Redon

Dinner at Auberge des Marais, Redon

7:30pm – 9:30pm

We recommend dining at Auberge des Marais. Enjoy good food at reasonable prices, along with friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere. Reservations are recommended. +33 (0)2 99 71 16 88 | aubergedesmarais.fr

Redon
Redon

Overnight in Redon

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

Redon > Ile-aux-Pies map

Redon > Ile-aux-Pies

9am – 10:30am

Approx. 1hrs 30mins | 1 lock

Escapades Verticales, Ile-aux-Pies
Escapades Verticales, Ile-aux-Pies

Explore Ile-aux-Pies

10:30am – 2pm

The Oust River crosses between granite cliffs, creating natural paradises like the Ile-aux-Pies. Just south of the island, you can moor outside ‘Escapades Verticales’ with whom you can book a variety of active adventures through which to enjoy this stunning natural setting. You can hire canoes, kayaks and pedalos for a leisurely paddle on the river. Or there are a variety of rope courses through the trees, up and along rocks faces and over rope bridges – suitable for adult adventure, as well as the kids. For more information and to book in advance, visit: escapades-verticales.fr

Ile-aux-Pies
Ile-aux-Pies

Lunch on board, Ile-aux-Pies

2pm – 3pm

Ile-aux-Pies > La Gacilly map

Ile-aux-Pies > La Gacilly

3pm – 4:15pm

Approx. 1hr 15mins | 0 locks

La Gacilly
La Gacilly

Explore La Gacilly

4:30pm – 6:30pm

Here, craftsmen, painters, sculptors, glass workers and more, work and display their wares, with colourful exhibitions spilling out onto the streets. La Gacilly is also the headquarters of the famous perfume maker, Yves Rocher, and you can visit the museum to find out more about the founder.

Yver Rocher offers preferential rates for Le Boat customers.

Dinner at L'Ambroisie, La Gacilly
L'Ambroisie, La Gacilly

Dinner at L’Ambroisie, La Gacilly

7:30pm – 9:30pm

We recommend dining at L’ambroisie for delicious, gastronomic greek food. Reservations are recommended. +33 (0)2 23 10 19 50 | resto-ambroisie.fr 

Overnight in La Gacilly

For families with younger children

Families

Escapades Verticales at Ile-aux-Pies: There are rope courses for all ages available at this brilliant activity park – from as young as 4 year old. Or adults can supervise even littler ones in a 2, 3 or 6 person canoe. Visit escapades-verticales.fr

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

La Gacilly > St Martin-sur-Oust map

La Gacilly > St Martin-sur-Oust

9am – 12:15pm

Approx. 3hrs 15mins | 2 locks

Lunch on board, Saint-Martin-sur-Oust

12:30pm – 1:30pm

Take time to take in your beautiful surroundings, fire up the barbeque (if you have one) and enjoy a lunch on board.

Saint-Martin-sur-Oust > Malestroit map

Saint-Martin-sur-Oust > Malestroit

1:30pm – 3:30pm

Approx. 2hrs 30mins | 3 locks

Place du Bouffay , Malestroit
Place du Bouffay , Malestroit

Explore Malestroit

3:30pm – 6pm

Nicknamed ‘The Pearl of the Oust River’, Malestroit is classified as a ‘small city of character’. Its half-timbered houses with sculptured gargoyles and vibrant roof tiles bear witness to its rich past and a stroll around town is a delight. Discover Place du Bouffay flanked by picturesque 12th to 16th century houses and St. Gilles church with it amazing Romanesque sculptures.

Le Grain du Sel, Malestroit
Le Grain du Sel, Malestroit

Dinner at Le Grain du Sel, Malestroit

7:30pm – 9:30pm

Le Grain de Sel is located next to St Gilles Church, just off Place du Bouffay and offers no-fuss, freshly prepared food in a cosy atmosphere. They are reliably open all week – and have a small outdoor seating area to enjoy balmy evenings eating al fresco. For bookings: 02 97 75 12 37 | lgds.fr

Overnight in Malestroit

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

Malestroit to Josselin

Travel to Josselin

9am – 9:30am

Take a taxi to Josselin.

Château de Josselin
Château de Josselin

Explore Josselin

9:30am – 1pm

Josselin is a shining star of Brittany. Founded in the 4th century, it still has many historical features: the old town, the medieval Sainte-Croix and the half-timbered houses with their coloured panels and corbels, now host to many charming restaurants and shops.

From wherever you are, it’s hard to miss the silhouette of gothic-style Château au Josselin. This majestic castle is at the heart of the town and it’s one of the most impressive castles in Brittany. First built in 1008, it has been rebuilt and modified several times. It’s hard to imagine that the three towers are the only ones that remain, out of the nine towers that were originally built and which were demolished in 14th century. Due to Anne of Brittany’s intervention, the castle was returned to its founders, the Rohan family. They restored the castle to its full glory. The Rohan family still occupy the top floors of the castle, but the ground floor is available for guided tours (2 hours | €9 per person). chateaudejosselin.com

Lunch at Table d’O, Josselin

1pm – 2:30pm

Josselin has a wide range of different restaurants to suit every taste. We recommend La Table d’O, where you can enjoy delicious French cuisine from their terrace which overlooks the château & River Oust. +33 2 97 70 61 39 | latabledo.eatbu.com

Josselin
Josselin

Explore Josselin

2:30pm – 3:30pm

While in Josselin, don’t forget to visit the local artisans. You can find unique pieces, from jewellery to pottery, leather & woodwork, and much more. You can also see the Basilique Notre Dame du Roncier, a showcase of 15th century, flamboyant architecture. For amazing views, you can visit its bell tower in July & August, free of charge. 

Travel to Malestroit map

Travel back to Malestroit

3:30pm – 4pm

Take a taxi back to Malestroit.

Malestroit > Saint-Martin-sur-Oust map

Malestroit > Saint-Martin-sur-Oust

4pm – 6:30pm

Approx. 2hrs 30mins | 5 locks

Chez Bernard, Saint-Martin-sur-Oust
Chez Bernard, Saint-Martin-sur-Oust

Dinner at Chez Bernard, Saint-Martin-sur-Oust

7:30pm – 9:30pm

We recommend Chez Bernard, a charming French restaurant located just next to the river. Don’t forget to try their homemade cider, La Ruaudaie. +33 (0)2 99 91 53 84 

Overnight in Saint-Martin-sur-Oust

For families with younger children

Families

Josselin: Visit the Musee de Poupees located in the old stables of Josselin Castle. The museum of dolls and toys has an impressive collection of nearly 5,000 pieces, and it’s one of the most important private collection of dolls and toys in France.

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

Saint-Martin-sur-Oust > Redon map

Saint-Martin-sur-Oust > Redon

9am – 12:30pm

Approx. 3hrs 30mins | 3 locks

Lunch at Creperie Saint-Nicolas, Redon

12:30pm – 2pm

We recommend the popular Crêperie Saint-Nicolas for their fantastic array of crêpes and cider. Enjoy! Reservations are advised. +33 (0)9 73 56 63 02 | creperie-saint-nicolas-st-nicolas-de-redon.eatbu.com

St.Sauveur-Abbey,Redon
St.Sauveur-Abbey,Redon

Explore Redon

2pm – 6:30pm

Don’t miss the ‘Musée de la Batellerie de l’Ouest’, which re-traces the epic history of the Brittany canals and the life of the sailors. But the main attraction of Redon is its Benedictine abbey, Saint-Sauveur, founded in the 9th century.

Dinner at La Bogue, Redon
La Bogue, Redon

Dinner at La Bogue, Redon

7:30pm – 9:30pm

We recommend La Bogue for their classic French and European dining and excellent value set menus. Supposedly, you’ll find the best Côtes du Rhône in France here! Bookings essential.  +33 (0)2 99 71 12 95 | labogue.fr

Overnight in Redon

Breakfast on board

8am – 9am

Redon > Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine map

Redon > Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine

9am – 12:15am

Approx. 3hrs 15mins | 0 locks

Lunch on board, Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine

12:30pm – 2pm

Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine > Messac map

Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine > Messac

2pm – 4:45pm

Approx. 2hrs 45mins | 2 locks

Explore Messac

5pm – 6:30pm

Explore the natural beauty of the region by foot or on bike, along the “voie verte” routes.

Un brin de Bretagne, restaurant

Dinner at ‘Un brin de Bretagne’

7:30pm – 9:30pm

Enjoy freshly-made burgers as well as their famous gratins in this lovely restaurant which is worth the 15 min drive to the neighbouring town of Bain-de-Bretagne. For bookings: +33 (0)2 99 43 70 02.

If you ‘d rather dine somewhere a little closer, La Pizzeria l’Escale is only 800m from the base and serves good pizzas. For bookings: +33 (0)2 99 34 60 97 | restaurant-pizzeria-lescale-35.fr

Overnight in Messac

Breakfast on board

7:30am – 8:30am

Enjoy your final breakfast on board before tidying and vacating your boat by 9am (unless you have booked and paid for a late-checkout)

Depart Messac

9am

10 night alternative

We’ve saved you a bit of time in this 7 night itinerary by suggesting you take a taxi from Malestroit to visit Josselin. This, otherwise, is a 3 hour cruise in each direction. But with an extra 3 nights to play with, you’ll easily be able to cruise this stretch of the canal, spend an night in Josselin and take your a bit more time to explore the castle and this beautiful town. 

With these extra few nights, we’d also suggest spending a whole day at the activity park at l’Île aux Pies and do more than one activity/course – it is a breath-taking setting in which to enjoy climbing and canoeing and there’s a wealth of walking trail in this area too.

This itinerary is a suggestion only

This suggested itinerary is an indication of what could be accomplished, and your ability to accomplish it, is not a contractual obligation of Le Boat. Le Boat is unable to guarantee when your pre-departure briefing will take place and in some cases it will not be given until the morning after your arrival. In these instances, you will need to adapt the itinerary outlined to accommodate a later departure. All cruising distances and times are approximations and are subject to local navigation restrictions at the time you cruise, planned or otherwise, which may also require you to deviate from the itinerary shown. Please check advertised opening times of sights, attractions and restaurants to avoid disappointment – some may need to be booked in advance. All meals, entry fees and tour tariffs are payable at your own expense. Attractions, restaurants and even locks and/or stretches of the waterway may be closed or can close without notice.

We’d love to hear from you

We’ve tried our very best to ensure the accuracy of the information we’ve provided. If you have followed all or some of this itinerary and have found something isn’t quite right, or perhaps you have some helpful tips and pointers that we could add which might be useful to your fellow boaters, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at: itineraries@leboat.com

Image Credits

Ile aux Pies: Lamoureux Alexandre | Josselin Aerial & La Gacilly with flags: Loic Kersuzan |  Josselin Castle: Marc Schaffner | Place du Bouffay, Malesroit: Berthier Emmanuel | Redon Riverfront * Redon Aerial: Poriel Thibald | Redon at night: A.Lamourex | River Aff, La Gacilly: Hadonos, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons