A stay in Noyal-Pontivy can be shaped by nature and outdoor activities as well as sacred architecture. The Valvert wetland, a circular walking trail, and several chapels and churches offer a variety of experiences.
Nature, Outdoor Activities and a Circular Trail
Valvert is now a wetland and natural area for relaxation, walks and leisure activities. As part of its ecological restoration, boardwalks and a birdwatching post were installed. There are also three adventure courses for children aged four and over, as well as outdoor fitness equipment.
Parc du Coguen offers another green space: established in 2010 over 2.50 ha in the town centre, it is popular with families.
One clearly defined hiking option is the “Sur les Traces de Sainte-Noyale” circular trail. It starts at the car park of the Maison de Maître on Rue Le Strat and is 9.5 km long. The stated duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes, and the difficulty level is moderate. Its distance, duration and difficulty make it easy to plan as a separate activity. Valvert, by contrast, offers walks, relaxation and leisure activities in a wetland setting.
Sainte-Noyale and Sacred Architecture
The Chapelle Sainte-Noyale dates from the 15th century. Its upper section was remodelled in the 16th century; painted wooden panelling from the 17th century depicts the life of Saint Noyale. The complex has been classified as a Monument Historique since 19 May 1965. It also includes an oratory dedicated to Saint Jean, a calvary, a fountain and a placître.
The Église Sainte-Noyale is a separate building: it was rebuilt in the 15th century and has been classified as a Monument Historique since 1927. The church houses a statue of the Ankou, a central figure in Breton legends about the dead.
The Chapelle Sainte-Barbe also dates from the 15th century. This building, designed in the flamboyant Gothic style, has been classified as a Monument Historique since 2018. Eight paintings on its wooden panelling depict scenes from the lives of Sainte-Barbe and Sainte-Noyale. Its painted programme thus differs from the depictions of Saint Noyale’s life in the chapel named after her.
Further Historical Traces
The Manoir du Verger dates from the 17th century and was built on the site of Noyal’s former castle, known as “La Motte”. Officers of the Compagnie des Indes later lived in the manor. This secular estate broadens the picture of the town’s history alongside its religious buildings.
Les Trois Fontaines were restored in 1818; one of the associated crosses bears the date 1600. The restoration and the inscription on the cross therefore mark different points in time. The Chapelle Petite Sainte-Noyale dates from the 18th century. Its entrance is outside the enclosure of the former presbytery and provides access.
A notable natural landmark is the pedunculate oak at Rescourio. It is estimated to be about 400 years old. It is 10 m high, with a spread of 10 m; its trunk is hollow and arched. Together with Valvert and Parc du Coguen, it offers another reason to include Noyal-Pontivy’s natural and recreational sites in your travel plans, alongside its historic buildings.
Discover more destinations: Guémené-Sur-Scorff, Lanester, Mohon, Priziac, Melrand, Réminiac, Saint-Gonnery, Billio.
For the broader travel overview: Morbihan.
