This route works in two ways which for sake of simplicity we'll call 'short' and 'long'. The description below is of the 'Short' Version. The 'long' version is very similar, but by doing a little extra on the second day (38 kms only) and a couple of smallish hills, you get to stay the two nights just outside Josselin itself at this hotel rather than have to do a 38 km 'there and back' from Rohan. The following day you then have to ride just over 40 kms, all on the canal towpath, to Pontivy. The only real advantage of doing the 'short version is that if you are knackered you can miss out the day to Josselin and have a rest, thus cutting out the longest day onthat route. Personally I'd go for the long version, but if you are very concerned over distance the short is better. To further confuse matters the 'short' route relies on a very small hotel which may be full, forcing you to do the long instead if you are booking late. Please specify 'Long' or 'Short' when booking.

Though this isn't one of the shortest routes it is one of the easiest - with over half the distance being on the canal towpath and old railway track/cyclepath. Where it does use roads it is very quiet and the only days with anything that could be called hills are the last two (when you should be more ready for it) and both pretty short. This makes it a perfect route for people looking for quiet easy cycling or for those with teenage children on their own bikes - who you don't trust...

The route also visits the two 'Chateaux' towns of Josselin and Pontivy. The former is a beautiful medieval town with a fairy tale castle - the latter a Napoleonic town with the kind of chateaux designed to keep people OUT! It also has a rather tempting area of shops and bars... Other than that it's quiet and very beautiful countryside.

Arrival on Saturday - first night at Bon Repos

Day 1. - 15 kms

Almost all off road as you follow first the Canal then the old railway track to the village of Mur-de-Bretagnethen a sweep downhill to the canal towpath where you'll find the Chambres D'Hotes at Le Pont Guern where the owner will produce a wonderful evening meal and you can relax next to the canal.

Day 2. - 37 kms

Today all on country lanes and tow path as you wind your way though the countryside to the large village of Rohan and the Chambres D'Hotes of Mme Le Pottier - the interior of this small manor house is all her own work, furnished and decorated with the most wonderful antiques these are the prettiest rooms of any of the accommodation we use. Three restaurants are within easy walking distance.

Day 3. - 38 kms!

In theory the longest day, but not compulsory as tonight you stay in Rohan again and the ride is an out-and-back to the medieval town of Josselin. Your panniers will be empty so plenty of chances to bring back shopping. This section of canal is really pretty and with a million picnic places - of course Josselin is gorgeous.

Day 4. - 25 kms

Today all on the canal towpath again, the first part you'll have done before but it has to be said that routes done in reverse look completely new! The canal takes you right into the centre of Pontivy, a bustling town which because of the short distance you'll have plenty of time to explore. The hotel L'Europe is a big, converted, Napoleonic townhouse with amazing staircases and wooden panelling.

Day 5 - 24 kms

Short so you can linger in Pontivy, followed by 9 kms on the canal towpath and then a few hills to warm your legs - but once again pretty countryside.

Day 6 - 38 kms

A very pretty ride to bring you all the way back to Gouarec to and then another 5 kms to the ruined abbey on the canal bank at Bon Repos - your hotel (not ruined) is right amongst the ruins - a truly wonderful setting. Though a fairly long day, and with a few hills to begin with, the last 10 kms are along the canal towpath once more (so hardly count...).

Day 7 - 3 kms

A very gentle wobble back to Gouarec and our base.