Along the canalised Aulne

Pont-Coblant is located approximately 5 km from Pleyben via the D785 towards Briec.

(S/E) From the car park near the Auberge du Poisson Blanc, head north-east along the towpath. Pass the campsite on the left and reach the Saint-Algon lock, located about 500 m away.

(1) Continue along the river, which curves sharply to the right, until you reach the next lock, the Vuzid lock, about 2 km away. Note the long island bordering this lock (private property).

(2) Continue along the Aulne, which curves again, and after about 2.7 km you will reach the Ty Men road bridge.

(3) Go under the bridge and take the footbridge on the right to cross the river. “On the right, note the barge ‘Victor’, which has been restored (exhibition inside in summer). Go round the boat, climb some steps, cross the road carefully and join the towpath (see alternative route in the practical information).

(4) Head down onto the towpath and follow it straight ahead.

(5) Meet the alternative route that joins from the left and continue along the river. Pass the Vuzid Lock

(6) and, further on, the Saint-Algon lock.

(7) The path continues alongside old slate quarries and leads to the first houses of Pont Coblant.

(9) At the road bridge, turn right then head down to the right again to rejoin the towpath.

(9) Pass the water sports centre and return to the car park 150 m further on (S/E).

: In winter, depending on rainfall, parts of the route may be flooded.
The first part of the route along the towpath up to (3) is very easy and is regularly used by cyclists.
The section of the towpath between (6) and (7) can be muddy in winter.

Alternative route in winter: From the barge, head towards the road coming from the bridge. At the three-way junction, take the road on the right which climbs steadily. Pass the farms of Tromez Vraz and Bourligou.
Just before the hamlet of Keriok, turn right onto a path running alongside the field. This path descends gradually to join the towpath at point (5).

The locks at Saint-Algon and Le Vuzit seen from two different angles.
The banks of the Aulne, covered in flowers in spring.
Former slate quarries.
After the Ty-Men Bridge, the barge Victor, saved from oblivion by the association “Il faut sauver ‘Victor’”, is on display south of the bridge as a living reminder of the canal’s heyday.