Forest walks in Finistère
Nature walks for all levels
Just as rich and diverse as its coastline, Brittany’s forests and woods are no match for the Atlantic coast. The stuff of many Breton tales and legends, these acres of trees are also the meeting place for walkers who want to enjoy a hike following the signposts.
The natural heritage of the Finistère department allows you to stroll through forests while enjoying the charm of the area’s many lakes, massifs, valleys and peaks. From Nordic walking to easy strolls, the diversity of hiking and biking trails means there’s something for everyone.
5 WOODS AND FORESTS FOR WALKING IN FINISTÈRE
Huelgoat forest
Located north-west of the town of Carhaix Plouguer, the Huelgoat forest attracts hikers and walkers alike. The cradle of numerous Breton legends, you’ll find sites along the marked trails that will let your imagination run wild, such as the Moulin du Chaos (Chaos Mill), the Grotte du Diable (Devil’s Cave), the Roche Tremblante (Trembling Rock) and the Camp d’Artus (Artus Camp).
This forest allows you to take a stroll along the 15-hectare pond and is a veritable chaos of huge rocks, making nature full of surprise and wonder. The 1,000-hectare state forest of Huelgoat is one of Brittany’s most legendary forests, second only to the famous Brocéliande forest. Hiking guides are of course available when you visit Carhaix Plouguer.
The Cranou forest
In the heart of the Monts d’Arrée regional nature park, the Cranou forest is renowned for its past, as the wood was used for shipbuilding by the Royal Navy in Brest. Today, this forest, mainly located in the communes of Hanvec and Le Faou, is an ideal place for a short family walk in a rural setting.
The local flora and fauna are preserved, so you can recharge your batteries and enjoy the many species of trees found on over 1,300 hectares. In fact, a large part of this forest is protected and classified as a Natura 2000 zone, thanks to its many oaks and other deciduous trees. It’s also a popular spot for mushroom picking in the right season.
Carnoët forest
Just 5 minutes from Flower Camping Le Kergarioudiscover the beautiful Carnoët (or Toulfoën) national forest. This majestic 700-hectare forest is a meeting place for walkers and hikers, thanks to its many nature trails.
Following the itinerary of your hike, you’ll pass the ruins of Carnoët castle, once home to Conomor “the Breton bluebeard” and the subject of many legends. The more or less uneven footpath will take you to some very fine viewpoints, notably the “Rocher Royal”, with its panoramic view over the Laïta river.
We recommend that you visit one of the offices of the Quimperlé Les Rias Tourist Office to obtain a guide to the signposted circuits.
Coatloch forest
Head for Scaër from Flower Camping Le Kergariou and in just 30 kms you’ll reach the Coatloch forest (Breton for “lake wood”). The birthplace of clog-makers and stone-cutters, the forest offers a wealth of heritage and imagination for your walking tour.
The many trees are home to numerous species of animal in a soothing natural setting crossed by hiking trails. Local associations organize hikes with guides to help you discover the richness of this wood with its many treasures. You’ll come across many walkers on your stroll through the forest, or when you take a picnic break in this natural area.
The forest of Beg-Meil and Mousterlin
Near Bénodet in Finistère, the Beg Meil Mousterlin state forest is ideally located near the coast and the marshes that bear the same name. This forest is the perfect place for a family hike, following the footpaths set up and maintained by local associations.
This forest is ideal thanks to its location close to the sea, and whether the weather is hot or not, this site will welcome you for a moment of relaxation in a green setting. Nature’s colors and sounds will let you relax and unwind, before or after a stroll along the cliffs on the Douaniers trail.
THE BENEFITS OF FOREST WALKS
An impromptu walk or an organized hike in a forest will in any case be a moment of relaxation for your body and mind. The sounds of nature and the colors will make your physical activity more interesting and motivating, whether you’re alone or accompanied. The ground, on footpaths or mountain bike trails, will show you which way you’re heading and will naturally bring you the richness of these green giants.
As you stroll along, you’ll witness the life of the forest, with its flora and fauna living in perfect harmony. The sound of the wind, crackling branches, birdsong or any other animal noise will make you curious enough to continue your walk to enjoy their natural habitat. The many mammals, birds and insects also keep the forest alive and well, with little help from humans.
For children, it’s the ideal time to let off steam in the middle of nature and enjoy a breath of fresh air, while enjoying family time together. They’ll discover for themselves the benefits of the forest and the energy it provides. Don’t be surprised if your children are particularly tired after a day or half-day in the forest!