In Saint-Martin-sur-Oust, waterside paths sit alongside cultural and historical landmarks. The walks have different focuses: one leads to a viewpoint overlooking the village, while another follows a stream and draws attention to the local fauna and flora. There is also a footpath along the Canal de Nantes à Brest, a designated mountain bike route, as well as a chapel, a château and historic crosses. The village therefore offers something for travellers wishing to explore the landscape, enjoy outdoor activities or discover traces of the past.
Walking between a pond, stream and canal
The walk to the Croix Gabriel de Villebonne starts at the Étang du Petit Moulin and takes about an hour. It leads to a cross with panoramic views of Saint-Martin-sur-Oust. The 2.5-kilometre Sentier Yves Rocher also starts at the pond and follows a small stream; it is designed for observing the local fauna and flora. These offer different points of reference: an approximate time for reaching a viewpoint, and a route length with a stream and nature observation along the way.
The Canal de Nantes à Brest also passes through Saint-Martin-sur-Oust. A footpath runs alongside the canal, offering a way to explore the landscape. It provides another setting for a walk, in addition to the two paths that start at the Étang du Petit Moulin. The landscape can thus be explored through different types of route: with views of the village, along a stream or beside the canal.
Cycling the Circuit des Moulins
The Circuit des Moulins starts in Saint-Martin-sur-Oust and is designated a 21-kilometre, moderately difficult mountain bike route. The estimated duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, the route passes through green spaces and by ponds, reaches the heights between Saint-Martin-sur-Oust and Les Fougerêts, where there are several viewpoints, and includes a stretch through woodland. The distance, difficulty rating and time estimate help give an idea of the scope of this cycling option; the stated 2 hours and 30 minutes is an estimate. As trail conditions and route information may change, it is advisable to check the latest details before setting off.
Chapel, cross and château
The Chapelle Saint-Léonard is very likely the surviving remnant of a priory founded before 1162 and belonging to the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Sulpice-la-Forêt near Rennes. A stone slab is set into the wall above the west door; it bears the engraved date 1651. The possible early history of the priory and the dated detail in the wall provide different historical points of reference for the chapel.
The Croix des Friches dates from the 17th century. The date 1886 on its base marks the year it was re-erected. At the Château de Castellan, the engraved date 1732 indicates the year of construction; it appears on both sides of the bull's-eye window on the front gable. These details point to different historical events: the cross's re-erection, the château's construction and the chapel's possible history as a priory.
Fishing lessons and outings
The AAPPMA Pêches Loisirs de l’Oust’s Atelier Pêche et Nature has been running since 2017 and is intended for Saint-Martin-sur-Oust, Les Fougerets, Peillac and Glénac. It teaches fishing techniques through classroom lessons and several outdoor outings. Activities are preferably held during the school holidays, starting at Easter. If you would like to include the workshop as a regular part of your itinerary, check the latest dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: La Chapelle-Neuve, Bieuzy, Josselin, Marzan, Bignan, Colpo, Pluméliau, Sauzon.
For the wider travel overview: Morbihan.
