A listed natural site
At Saint-Maurice, you arrive feeling tense and a little stressed.... and leave feeling relaxed and at peace! Appreciated for the calm that reigns here, this is a great place to observe the flora and fauna. Situated close to the sea and on the edge of the forest, the site is home to a wide variety of species. With 123 hectares of woodland, moorland, salt meadows and grazed meadows, the Saint-Maurice site is a mosaic of environments. As the seasons go by, around a hundred species of bird occupy the banks and woods of this site, which is owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral. Don't hesitate to take your binoculars and explore the banks of the river to discover this exceptional fauna.
If you take your time, you may also find little treasures such as the drosera, a small carnivorous plant.
Birds, trees, insects... the site offers numerous family outings in the park and the Bois de Saint-Maurice (July-August).
An exceptional cultural venue
To approach the Saint-Maurice abbey site is to travel through almost 1,000 years of history on the banks of the Laïta. Behind the century-old trees overlooking the river, you can see the remains of the Cistercian monks who settled here in the 12th century. Among these romantic ruins, the 13th-century chapter house, the 16th-century façade and the 17th-century orangery are the only elements still intact. The orangery houses a permanent exhibition on the life of the abbey and its monks. Listen to the old stones speak and feel the atmosphere of the place.
When culture meets nature... Quimperlé les rias is a major heritage site, but it is also a lively place. During the season, a varied programme of theatre, music and storytelling is on offer. The exceptional natural setting provides a veritable theatre of greenery for visitors.
Walks on the edge of the woods
Starting from the abbey site and following the GR®34 along the Laïta, the Saint-Maurice woods offer some magnificent walks in a peaceful setting under century-old trees. Between undergrowth and river banks, the routes are accessible to families. Panoramic views over the Laïta show off its wild character, particularly at Pré Mathurin where the river meanders and marshy areas mingle. The walk takes you as far as the nearby Carnoët forest.
Are you more of a cyclist? There are also mountain bike trails through the Bois de Saint-Maurice and the Carnoët forest.
