A place for nature lovers
Spotlight on the Maison de l’estuaire, its domain and biodiversity.
Walk of 5 km between the Trieux and the Penhoat-Lancerf
Between the Trieux and the Penhoat-Lancerf forest, the hike is highly appreciated by tourists and locals alike. The environment is majestic, bucolic and with a generous and unspoilt nature. The paths taken open out onto spectacular landscapes. And when it’s animated by the nature guide Laurence, it’s all the more pleasant. The Maison de l’Estuaire in Plourivo offers about ten circuits to suit all tastes, so there is something for everyone. Among the propositions : a walk of 5 km for about 2 hours of discovery.
The Maison de l’Estuaire
The walk begins with the visit of the exhibition room telling the story of the magnificent manor, built in 1850 by a wealthy businessman from the north of France, and freshly renovated. The itinerary then begins on the path that runs alongside the Trieux and the natural areas of the estuary forest, which covers 600 hectares. At the start of the tour, Laurence tells the story of the young forest backing onto the 75km-long Trieux river. It’s a simple walk and not a hike, as the guide takes the time to comment about the nature of the site and its special features. The stroll is punctuated by breaks with rich observations and precise explanations.
The woods that used to be the moors of Plourivo, are now managed in an attempt to preserve and enrich the various species, including numerous trees like the maritime pines, interspersed with moorland, conifers, deciduous trees, oaks… The estuary is indeed a fragile environment composed of numerous specific plants important for the balance of salt meadows and mudflats. It is therefore listed as a protected natural site.
Rich birdlife
Throughout the walk, birdsong accompagnies Laurence, who takes the time to talk about the richness of the birdlife in the domain. Numerous very specific marine and forest birds live on the site alongside deers, boars, foxes… which you can easily observe by opening wide your eyes and ears. It’s the perfect occasion for Laurence to bring awareness to the hikers : nature is not just a playground or a nice setting, it’s also a living being. You have to learn how to listen to it, observe it and know it, in order to protect it…
The flax mills, the train, the Château de la Roche-Jagu…
Once you’ve walked along the banks of the Trieux and the grasslands, the path rises for a few hundred metres to reach the wonderful undergrowth. In the forest you will find a remnant of the very successful linen textile industry, starting from the 15th century : a flax mill. The flax was grown to make canvas and fabric for boats. About 65 flax mills are visible in the Trégor, including 6 or 7 in the domain of the Maison de l’Estuaire.
Then, after passing under the tunnel through which the train linking Guingamp to Paimpol passes, it’s time for a change of scenery to reach the plateau and its pine forest, allowing you the opportunity to admire the beautiful heather in bloom during the summer.
The plateau also offers a stunning view on the majestic Château de la Roche-Jagu, erected at the other side of the river. The 11th century fortress overlooks the Trieux, a natural border between the Goëlo and the Trégor and formerly used as an access route for invaders then a trade route… A breathtaking view with a succession of magnificent vantage points awaits you.
(© Text: Publihebdos)
