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This former watermill, documented as early as 1089, was initially used as a fulling mill before being converted into a flour mill in the 19th century. Its operation ceased on December 31, 1974. Since then, the building has stood as a significant heritage landmark, marking the industrial and riverine history of the Vilaine Valley.

In 832, Conuvoion, a Breton monk, founded the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur in Redon with the support of the Carolingian Emperor Louis the Pious. A small rural community slowly grew up around the abbey. During the Middle Ages, the town benefited from its location on the Vilaine River, as trade goods could be transported upstream to Redon on ocean-going vessels. There, the goods were transshipped and transported further on inland waterway barges towards Rennes, the capital of Brittany. In the 19th century, Redon experienced another period of prosperity with the construction of the Nantes-Brest Canal. Even today, the old shipowners' houses and the large harbor basin bear witness to its history as a trading port.

The cycle path along the Vilaine is truly a MUST! It runs directly along the river and has many locks. At each of the locks, there are beautifully maintained guardhouses, some of which are even kitsch. The cycle path doesn't stray more than 10 meters from the river and has a very well-maintained surface. I had the pleasure of following it for over 40 kilometers.

Redon has managed to retain its quiet, small-town character, despite its intense activity (and traffic). Following the floods of 2024, the campsite is closed. The pedestrian street is pleasant and not overcrowded with shops. Just what you need. A visit to the port is also a pleasant experience.

A "treidelpfad" (towpath) that runs alongside the river or canal's bed was an essential part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Before ships could be powered by motors, horses walked along the bank, pulling the boat against the current. This was called "treideln" (towing), and this is how the towpaths got their name, which has been passed down to this day. Where these paths, located directly along the bank, have been preserved, they are popular with hikers and cyclists.

Here you cycle on the old towpath along the Nantes-Brest canal. You can see swans floating on the water.

The bank formation looks special. Aquatic plants grow like carpets on both sides.

The Rocs de Gascaigne are a magnificent natural area on the slopes of the Don Valley, where you can admire the rocky cliffs, the pine forest and the rare plants and animals that live there.