Poligné combines cultural and historical points of interest with paths along the Semnon and the hilly landscape of the middle Vilaine. The Église Saint-Donatien-Saint-Rogatien offers a tangible link to the past; the Circuit des Veyaires has a clearly stated length and duration, while Vélo Promenade® No. 17 passes through the landscapes of the middle Vilaine and the Semnon. This distinction can help you plan your stay: you can focus on the church and history, or on paths and scenery. If you are considering Poligné as a place to stay overnight, it’s best to choose your accommodation based on the themes that genuinely interest you.

The church and traces of historic routes

The Église Saint-Donatien-Saint-Rogatien was first mentioned in 1304. Polychrome wooden statues of Saint Donatian and Saint Rogatian were placed on the main altar in 1664. There are 360 years between the church’s first mention and the installation of the statues. If you are interested in local history and sacred art, you can make both a cultural focus of your visit to Poligné.

Historic transport links are also among the notable details. A bridge built of slate around 1731 enabled the former road from Nantes to Rennes to cross the Semnon. Le Relais was located near the river so that horses could be watered; its stables could accommodate up to 26 horses at a time.

Circular route and scenery along the Semnon

The Circuit des Veyaires is an easy, 3.9-kilometre circular route that takes one hour. It starts at the church car park and follows the Semnon for much of its length. The route can be used on foot, by bicycle and on horseback. Allow one hour for the 3.9-kilometre circular route. As practical route details may change, check the information before setting off.

At Tertre Gris, the département’s designation of the area as a Site Naturel Sensible (Sensitive Natural Area) coincides with a trail featuring seven discovery stations. The stations are located near the banks of the Semnon. Another way to experience the landscape is Vélo Promenade® No. 17 Le Tertre gris, which passes through the hilly landscapes of the middle Vilaine and the Semnon.

Starting at the church car park is a practical option if you want to combine the Circuit with a visit to the church. The circular route’s length and duration are specified; the church’s history provides a separate cultural focus. If you are planning to cycle, you can also choose between the Circuit, whose distance is specified, and Vélo Promenade® No. 17, two routes described in different ways. The Circuit is also designated for walking and horse riding.

Discover more destinations: Roz-Sur-Couesnon, Noyal-Sous-Bazouges, Clayes, Gosné, Guichen, Champeaux, La Bazouge-Du-Désert, Luitré

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