Discover the Brière Regional Nature Park at your own pace

A land of water, marshes and peat, La Brière has been protected since 1970, the year the regional nature park was created. The heart of the park, made up of marshes, is surrounded by hedged farmland, meadows and woods.

La Brière has been inhabited for hundreds of years, and is home to a number of hamlet villages. There are still a few traditional houses in the area.

The most remarkable buildings are the thatched cottages. Be sure to admire them on your travels, as you'll soon notice these thatched-roof houses.

A genuine 17th-century traditional dwelling, the thatched cottage is a testament to the relationship between man and nature.

To admire as many as you can, head for the hamlet of Kerhinet in the village of St-Lyphard. The nature park has contributed to the restoration of many thatched cottages.

As an added bonus, the Brière Regional Nature Park is a haven for many animal species.

The site is a paradise for birdwatchers. Birdlife is well represented, with several hundred species of bird.

The Maison de la Grolle is one of the best birdwatching spots. From the village of Saint-Joachim, at the start of the GR tour of Brière.

In spring you can admire (if you're lucky) storks, great egrets and spoonbills. Don't forget your boots, as the ground is often flooded.

For a more leisurely way to explore the park, opt for cycling or hiking. Numerous paths and tracks have been created and maintained by park staff and volunteers.

To maximise your chances of observing the wildlife, the best times are in the morning (dawn) and late afternoon and early evening (dusk).

In fact, dawn and dusk offer the most beautiful colours (ideal atmospheres for photography) and perfect tranquillity.

What's more, you'll often find it quieter on the trails!

The best way to get to grips with the area's riches is to take a walk accompanied by a local guide.

Other unmissable activities include a visit by barge (a typical local boat). Several service providers offer their services in fine weather.

The La Baule presqu'île de Guérande tourist office lists the various operators.

Alternatively, you can discover the region by bike, on horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage... A choice of activities that will delight young and old alike!

Domaine de Pan is a 4-star establishment offering an experience in the heart of nature.

Situated in the heart of the Brière Regional Nature Park, this hotel-lodge offers a breathtaking view over a wood. The structure is committed to environmental protection (energy self-sufficient establishment).

Among the different types of accommodation on offer, you can choose between a tent, a room in the lodge or a suite (sleeps 4).

The villa can also be fully privatised. The maximum capacity is 12 people.

In addition to its original accommodation, Domaine de Pan has a bar and offers guests a buffet breakfast.