The course of the Odet has earned it the nickname of most beautiful river in France. Depending on the tides you can go down or up between Quimper and Bénodet. The circuit of the Odet is a famous tourist walk which allows to discover the region. Every year in June, the Odet descent gathers hundreds of kayakers for a festive and family day.
The Odet river has its source about forty kilometers north-east of Quimper, on the borders of the departments of Finistère and Morbihan, in the heart of the Montagnes Noires. The river winds through the Cornish countryside towards the town of Quimper. Along its course through the city, the Odet receives two important tributaries: the Frout and the Steir. The Odet follows the gorges of the Vire Court, meandering in a beautiful wooded valley, bordered here and there by castles, manors and parks.
The famous sailor Eric Tabarly had settled in Gouesnac’h in one of these beautiful properties, in front of which, until a few years ago, one could often admire his Pen Duick at anchor.
Quietly and along the water, you can observe kingfishers, herons, swans, egrets and ducks. You can plan the walk over a day by bringing your picnic (in a waterproof bag 🙂 to lunch on the banks of the Odet.
This 14 km walk is accessible to children from 5 years old, provided they can swim. Remember to equip yourself according to the weather conditions: cap, sun cream, fleece, windbreaker… (children get cold faster than adults on the water).
From June 7th until the end of August, the Quimper Cornouaille canoe club offers a shuttle service to reach your vehicle on arrival (or before your departure depending on tide conditions). The daily rental is 27€ per adult and 17€ for children under 16 (Shuttle 3€) – Rates 2022
The club les 3 grenouilles in Gouesnach proposes several circuits on the Odet (from 5 to 18 km). The transport to/from the course is done by motorboat. The price per person is 22€ for a single kayak, 20€ for a double kayak, 17€ for a triple kayak (2 adults and a child).
In both cases, reservations are required because the schedules vary each day depending on the tides.
Several courses of ballade are possible in the bay of the Forêt Fouesnant, that you are beginner or confirmed you will find your happiness there for sure.
From the beach of Kerleven, you can follow the coast towards Concarneau. The departure of this beach is ideal because it is sheltered from the wind and the swell. If you just want to try sea kayaking without going too far, you can stop on the beach of the small manor in the Saint-Laurent cove, or the Saint-Jean cove before leaving in the opposite direction.
For experienced kayakers, it is possible to hike around the entire bay. You will be able to admire the beautiful houses that line the coastline, and the small creeks that dot the landscape.
You will find more information about the route and things to see on the
blog of Pascal Jouneau
which relates his excursions in pictures:
No need to go far! You can rent kayaks and paddleboats directly from our campsite, at the Paillotte des Saules located at the foot of the Kerleven beach. Find the
detail of the rates here
.
The Glénan, a Breton archipelago made up of 11 islands and islets, will allow you to observe a varied fauna and flora in an exceptional environment. Thanks to the Odet boats, you can make the crossing on board a shuttle. Once on Saint-Nicolas Island, you will get fully equipped kayaks with waterproof housing and a marine map indicating the navigation areas. You can then explore the archipelago at your own pace, and discover small isolated coves.
In July and August, the shuttles can leave from Port-la-Forêt, 5 minutes by car from the campsite.
Whether you are going as a couple, with a young child or with teenagers, if you like to share activities together, kayaking is for you. A good way to spend unforgettable vacations!
4* campsite with direct access to the beach between Fouesnant and Concarneau.
