Explore Mahalon through its churches, a chapel and a calvary, as well as Étang de Poulguidou and trails through the countryside. Different themes stand out when planning a trip: architectural history, mills and waterways alongside a shorter circuit and a longer mountain biking route. You can decide whether you would like to shape your stay around culture, landscapes or outdoor activities.
Churches, a Chapel and Religious Art
Saint-Magloire Church brings together traces of several centuries. It was partially rebuilt in 1772 and retains numerous Renaissance and Gothic features dating from its original construction. Inside are columns from the Pont-Croix school, dating back to the 12th century. The church also houses a 16th-century funerary monument, considered one of the first Renaissance funerary monuments in Brittany. The columns, architectural styles and funerary art offer different ways to explore the history of the town.
Saint-Pierre Chapel stands in Lohantec, south of the village of Mahalon. It dates from the 16th century, is built in the shape of a Latin cross and was erected at the initiative of the lords of Kerandraon. It was originally dedicated to Saint Hoantec. Another stone landmark is the granite calvary Ar Groaz Ru, dated 1647. Its crucifix depicts Christ with the Virgin Mary and John; a Pietà is on the reverse. The chapel and calvary showcase different aspects of sacred architecture and art.
Waterscapes and the History of Mills
Étang de Poulguidou covers 35 hectares and is protected by a biotope protection order because of its significant biological interest. The Frout stream rises at Kerveneolic in Mahalon and flows into the pond. It then continues towards the Goyen, supplying nine watermills along the way, six of them in Mahalon. The stream reaches the river at Keridreuff in Pont-Croix. Water and the history of mills are therefore among the defining themes of the landscape.
The large mill wheel and the weir remain at Meil Roscaradec mill. The mill operated until 1967. Together with the information about the other watermills, it gives a tangible sense of the role of water in local milling history.
Two Circular Routes of Different Lengths
La Balade de l’Étang is a marked 11-kilometre circular route, with a stated duration of two and a half hours. The route is suitable for the whole family. The Vallée-du-Goyen mountain biking route, marked as circular route 8, is 36 kilometres long and starts at the church car park in Mahalon. It is accessible to everyone, although some sections crossing the valleys are more technically demanding. When choosing a route, you can compare the length and difficulty: the 11-kilometre circuit versus the longer mountain biking route, which has more challenging sections. As trail markings and conditions can change, it is advisable to check for current information before setting out on the mountain biking route.
Cider and Breton Games
At the Tromelin farm, the cider house offers a guided tour introducing visitors to the production of cider and apple juice. The visit includes an exhibition of agricultural equipment and a demonstration film, followed by a tasting of the products. As dates may change, it is best to check the visitor information in advance. In Mahalon’s leisure area, the Jeux Bretons section presents and explains ten traditional Breton games. The availability of individual games may change; if you are interested in a particular game, ask in advance.
A Handy Addition in the Town Centre
The Base verte de loisirs is in the town centre and covers two hectares. It offers wooded areas for walks, picnic areas, toilets, a water supply and parking; admission is free. As facilities and accessibility conditions may change, check them before your visit if they are important to your plans.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Renan, Pont-L'abbé, Roscanvel, Plabennec, Landunvez, Plourin Les Morlaix, Le Trévoux, Saint Evarzec.
For the main travel overview: Finistere.
