In the woods around Kernault Manor

Head to Kernault Manor, situated between Mellac and Le Trévoux.
Park in the large car park.

(S/E) Head towards the far end of the car park, exit to the right then turn left to go round the grassy area planted with trees. Head right along the central path to arrive opposite the manor’s entrance gate. Turn left to head down towards the pond and continue along the forest track which bends to the right. Carry on until you reach the first sign marked ‘VTT 36 Kernestour’, just before the edge of the woodland (follow this sign at every signpost within the woodland).

VTT 36 Kernestour sign

(1) Turn left towards the railway line, cross a footbridge and continue with the stream on your left and the railway line on your right. Follow the path through the small tunnel under the railway line. Continue to the left along the edge of the woodland, cross another footbridge and arrive at a junction marked by a sign. Continue to the left, keeping the stream on your left, and head uphill along the edge of the woodland until you reach another sign.

(2) Turn right, ignoring the path that descends towards a road, and continue along the track that leads into the woods. Follow the track closely; it is signposted in places with ‘VTT 36 Kernestour’ signs.

(3) At the new signpost, turn left and then, shortly afterwards, right to make a wide circular route and emerge onto a forest track lined with beautiful beech trees.

(4) Turn right and follow this lane towards Kernestour Farm; ride past it and, via a grassy track, rejoin the railway line. Continue along the track running alongside it before soon moving away from it. Carry on through the woodland and turn right at the “Moulin de la Boulaie” sign to come out onto a small road.

(5) Walk down this narrow road, passing close to the Moulin de Kernault (private property), and you’ll reach the railway line again. Cross the level crossing and look out for a flight of steps on the right.

Yellow and red^GRP® markings

(6) Take the stairs and continue along the path which runs above the railway line, then veer off to the left to join a wide forest track, which you follow. Cross a small stream, continue along this wide track between meadows and pastures, and go round the back of the manor house grounds. Turn left and you’ll find yourself facing the wooded esplanade.

Follow the route back in the opposite direction to return to the car park (S/E).

Note: between points (1) and (5), in the woods, follow the directions indicated by the ‘VTT 36 Kernestour’ signs carefully (tricky section); then, from point (6), follow the yellow and red markings of the^GRP®.
The route is largely shaded.
There are lovely paths around the manor house grounds that are suitable for pushchairs.
The manor house shop has a refreshment area.

Kernault Manor.
Forest trail.