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12 of the best things to do in La Gacilly Brittany

When we picked up our Le Boat to navigate the Nantes-Brest canal we were told to make sure we visited La Gacilly in Brittany France. It was the last stop on our trip after visiting Josselin and it lived up to our expectations. The village has become a popular destination for tourists. With its quaint village streets and immersive experiences in the world of La Gacilly Yves Rocher. Full of flowers the village has earned a reputation for its beauty. This attracts many artisans to set up workshops and boutiques here selling their creations.

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How to get to La Gacilly in Brittany

La Gacilly is located in the Morbihan department of Brittany, in northwestern France. The town is situated on the banks of the Aff River, in the heart of the Brocéliande forest. Approximately 50 kilometres east of the city of Vannes, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. We arrived by boat mooring in the small harbour for free and having access to both water and electricity.

By car: La Gacilly in Brittany is located approximately 50 kilometres east of the city of Vannes, and is easily accessible by car. From Vannes, take the N166/E60 east towards Rennes, then take the D777 exit towards La Gacilly. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
By train: The nearest train stations to La Gacilly is located in the nearby town of Redon, which is approximately 25 kilometres to the north. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach La Gacilly. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by taxi.
By bus: La Gacilly is served by a range of local and regional bus services, including the Bus Verts du Morbihan and the BreizhGo network. Buses run regularly from Vannes and other nearby towns and offer a convenient and affordable way to reach La Gacilly.
By plane: The nearest airport to La Gacilly is located in the city of Rennes, which is approximately 70 kilometres to the east. From there, you can take a train or a taxi to reach La Gacilly. Alternatively, you can hire a car at the airport and drive to La Gacilly.

Once you are in La Gacilly the town is small enough to explore on foot.

Where to park in La Gacilly

If you are planning on reaching the town by car you will be pleased to know that there are several free parking options.

Parking des Halles: This is the main parking area in La Gacilly, located in the centre of town near the town hall and the market square. The parking lot has approximately 150 spaces and is free of charge. We walked past this on the way to the Botanical Gardens. I was surprised to see such a large car park. It was not even half full although this was mid afternoon and right at the end of the UK school holidays.
Parking de la Gare: This parking area is located near the train station on the outskirts of town, and offers approximately 50 spaces. The parking lot is free of charge.
Parking de la Chapelle: This parking area is located on the north side of town, near the Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste. The parking lot has approximately 30 spaces and is free of charge.

Top tips for a visit to La Gacilly

Once we had moored up the first place we visited was the Tourist Information Centre. This is located in the centre of the town close to the La Gacilly Yves Rocher building and is a great place to pick up a map. We were also given directions to the botanical gardens. They are also aware of any exhibitions and local events being run by the artisan craft makers, which is worth checking. Especially if you are visiting outside of the Photo Festival.
They can also tell you if any workshops are available for a more hands-on experience. These establishments offer unique opportunities to learn various crafts, from pottery to painting and more.
The village is extremely popular. Visiting during the end of August we were still in peak season and so were given the advice to not arrive between 11 am and 3 pm when it is at its most busy. As we could stay overnight moored in the harbour we definitely noticed a drop in footfall from around 5 pm onwards.
Typically we also found that because a lot of people do not stay in the village many of the eateries also closed around 7 pm. Which seems quite typical of this area of Brittany. So it would be worth booking in advance to ensure they are open when you plan to visit.
The bakery did not open until 10 am demonstrating that the village is very much set up for the tourists.

12 Things to do in La Gacilly France

Craft shops & narrow streets

One of the reasons that the village is so popular is because of all of the various art galleries and craft shops, showcasing the town’s rich creative culture. You can pick up a map from the tourist office that shows all of the different shops and their specialities. We saw everything from glass blowers, artists, pottery, ceramics, leather goods, furniture and even the cutest post boxes. All the time you are wandering you are surrounded by flowers and the traditional Breton architecture. With narrow streets and grey stone buildings, it is very pretty.

Art galleries

As well as the individual craft shops there are a number of different galleries acknowledging its thriving art scene. There are numerous art galleries that showcase the creative talents of local artists. Atelier de Sculpture Martine Bechir and L’Atelier 1110 are examples of galleries where you can marvel at the artistic expressions and even indulge in a few purchases to take back home.

Market day La Gacilly Brittany

The La Gacilly Market is a vibrant and bustling outdoor market that takes place in the centre of La Gacilly every Saturday morning. The market features a wide range of local products and crafts, including fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats, and seafood, as well as handmade crafts, clothing, and jewellery

Depending on the time of year you visit you may also catch the La Gacilly Christmas Market. Which is an annual event that takes place in the centre of town during the month of December. The market features a range of local food and drink, as well as handmade crafts and gifts, all in a festive and atmospheric setting. As well as mulled wine the market also features a range of activities and entertainment, including live music, carol singing, and visits from Santa Claus.

La Gacilly Yves Rocher Botanical Garden

Another must-visit spot in the village is the Yves Rocher Botanical Garden. Where you can take in the beauty of nature and learn about the history of a famous French cosmetics brand founded in La Gacilly. We were given directions from the tourist office either to walk through the village or to take a nature path which brings you out near the church about halfway. We wanted to get our bearings so walked through the village which also meant we could see more of the photographic exhibition (see below). It is about a mile from the tourist information centre.

The Yves Rocher Botanical Garden is home to over 1,500 species of plants from around the world. The garden is designed to showcase the rich diversity of plant life and to educate visitors about the importance of preserving and protecting our natural heritage. The garden is open to the public year-round and offers a range of guided tours, workshops, and other educational activities.

Once you get there, there is no cafe. Although we did see a baguette machine on the route. So make sure you stock up with drinks before you leave the village. You probably only need about half an hour to explore. It showcases a variety of plant species native to the region. The boys found the bamboo forest to be the most interesting element of the garden.

Maison Yves Rocher

La Gacilly is proud to be the home of the Maison Yves Rocher, a unique interactive museum dedicated to the founder of the well-known cosmetics brand.

Yves Rocher was a visionary entrepreneur who founded the La Gacilly Yves Rocher cosmetics company in 1959, and went on to become one of the most successful and influential figures in the French beauty industry. The Maison Yves Rocher was established in 1976, in the heart of La Gacilly, as a way to honour Rocher’s legacy and to showcase his passion for nature and botanicals.

The Maison Yves Rocher is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion, which has been restored and renovated over the years to create a stunning cultural and educational centre. The museum features a range of exhibits on the history of the La Gacilly Yves Rocher company. As well as on the life and times of Yves Rocher himself. Visitors can learn about Rocher’s innovative approach to cosmetics, his commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, and his lifelong passion for botany and horticulture.

Electric boat trips

It is possible to hire little electric boats from the small harbour to cruise along the picturesque Aff valley. Echappee Fluviale is one of the companies that offer these boats and is ideal for families. Where you can enjoy the lush greenery of the woodland from the water. While keeping an eye out for fish, dragonflies, herons, and other species that call this region home. In addition to these adventurous tours, there are more relaxed options.

Hiking, walking and biking

Walking along the Aff River is a popular activity. More information on the below trails and public space can be picked up from the tourist information centre.

One of the most popular walking trails along the Aff River is the Sentier des Moulins. Or Mill Trail, which follows the river for approximately 6 kilometres between La Gacilly and Cournon. The trail passes by several historic water mills. As well as through forests and fields, and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Another popular walking trail along the Aff River is the Sentier des Landes, or Heathland Trail. Which follows the river for approximately 8 kilometres between La Gacilly and Saint-Martin-sur-Oust. The trail passes through heathland and forests and offers a chance to see a variety of local flora and fauna. Including wildflowers, birds, and butterflies.

In addition to these longer walking trails, there are also several shorter walks and hikes along the Aff River. Including the Promenade des Berges, or Riverbank Walk. Which follows the river through the centre of La Gacilly and offers a chance to see some of the town’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Regional delicacies

Brittany is well known for its seafood, and La Gacilly will not disappoint. Indulge in fresh, locally sourced oysters, mussels, and fish dishes. We also noticed that the village had more than its fair share of Breton crêpes and galettes. These are thin, savoury pancakes made from buckwheat flour, often stuffed with cheese, ham, or mushrooms. Another must-try is the Kouign-amann, a buttery and crispy Breton pastry that is a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth. You can find this delicacy in bakeries and patisseries throughout the village. Several have them on display outside to tempt tourists in.

I would also recommend sampling some of the local beverages as well. Brittany is famous for its cider and you might also want to try Chouchen. A traditional alcoholic beverage made from honey that is sometimes referred to as Breton mead.

Photo Festival

La Gacilly France is known for its vibrant events and festivals, particularly the renowned La Gacilly Photo Festival, which takes place from early June to late September. It was on when we visited. As the largest outdoor event of its kind in France. The festival attracts photography enthusiasts from all over the world. To experience over 30 exhibitions showcased throughout the town’s gardens, alleys, house walls, and public space.

It honours talented photographers from various countries such as Brazil, Ivory Coast, Iran, Japan, Italy, the United States, and France. Offering their views on the current state of the world and environmental issues. Featuring a different theme each year. It turns La Gacilly into an open-air gallery, with photographs displayed on large-scale installations throughout the town.

Ile aux Pies – 15 minutes drive

A gem that should not be missed during our visit to La Gacilly France is the Ile aux Pies. We passed this on the boat and it will be a short drive from the village so best to visit on route or after you have finished. This a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers captivating views of the Oust River and the surrounding cliffs. The tranquil environment provides an idyllic setting for observing wildlife. Such as herons gracefully flying above the water or colourful dragonflies darting among the tall grasses. There are also several tree-top trails and rope courses. As well as the opportunity to go rock climbing and hire kayaks and paddle boards.

The Museum of the Poete Ferrailleur – 30 minutes drive

The Museum of the Poete Ferrailleur, also known as the Museum of the Iron Poet. The museum is dedicated to the work of the local artist Robert Coudray. Who was known for his whimsical and imaginative sculptures made from recycled metal and other materials. It is around half an hour drive from the centre La Gacilly. Featuring a range of exhibits and installations showcasing Coudray’s work. One of the highlights of the Museum of the Poete Ferrailleur is its outdoor sculpture garden. Which features a range of Coudray’s most famous works, including his iconic “Iron Dragon” sculpture.

Other Towns of interest

There are also a number of other towns and villages close to La Gacilly France which are worth a visit. Including the beautiful Josselin which is 38 minute drive. Redon which is a 20-minute drive and Malestroit which is a 22-minute drive.