Sion-les-Mines and the Vilaine Valley: 5 unforgettable van adventures

Explore Sion-les-Mines and its surroundings, where industrial heritage, untouched nature and charming villages come together. An authentic road trip for vanlife enthusiasts.

Straddling Loire-Atlantique and Ille-et-Vilaine, the Vilaine Valley unfolds its lush landscapes, canals and hidden gems. In Sion-les-Mines, mining history blends with a relaxed way of life that captivates campervan travellers. Here are five must-visit stops to discover this region in your van, from waterside strolls to journeys into the past.

The Iron Mines of Sion-les-Mines

Dive into the region’s industrial past at this iconic mining site, now a memorial space. The ruins and information panels tell the story of the miners and the iron ore extraction that shaped the area.

Where to sleep nearby

Lakeside parking Saint-Sulpice-des-Landes Parking ★ 4.8 Peaceful ponds and green space, 5 minutes by car. Perfect for a quiet night in nature. › Parking by the Chère river in Mouais Parking ★ 4.7 Former campsite by the River Chère, 6 minutes by car. Flat ground with tables and bins. › Woodland parking with pond Sion-les-Mines Parking ★ 4.5 Pond and hiking trails, 6 minutes by car. Compost toilets and bins on site. › Accessible pond parking PMR Sion-les-Mines Parking Close to the mines, quick access (5 minutes). Simple and practical parking for a stopover. ›

The Nantes to Brest Canal

Cycle or walk along the banks of this legendary canal, which winds through the Vilaine Valley for kilometres. The locks and watery landscapes make for a peaceful outing, perfect for a van break.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Cerisiers Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly campsite rated 4.7/5, modern facilities. 42-minute walk, green and peaceful setting. › Camping-Car Park Josselin Motorhome area ★ 4 Grass pitch for 14€/night, close to the centre. 17-minute walk, canal views. › Parking by Nantes Brest canal Pleugriffet Parking ★ 4.4 Untouched nature, Nantes-Brest Canal. 7 minutes by car, absolute tranquillity. › Parking in the wild facing the lock Guillac Parking ★ 3.8 Secluded spot, lock views. 5 minutes by car, soothing waterfront atmosphere. › Parking by the leisure area Lanouée Parking ★ 4.6 Free parking by the canal. 21-minute walk, very peaceful setting. ›

The Forest of La Gacilly

A 700-hectare state forest, ideal for nature hikes or picnics by the ponds. Its shaded trails are van-friendly, with discreet parking areas available.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Du Bois Vert Campsite ★ 4.5 Family campsite by a pond, spacious pitches. 5-minute drive (4 km), rated 4.5. › Picnic area Saint Jugon chapel La Gacilly Parking ★ 4.8 Shaded area near the forest, water point and tables. 28-minute walk, free and quiet. › Grass parking by a pond Carentoir Parking ★ 4.1 Grass parking by a pond, clean toilets. 5-minute drive (5 km), peaceful setting. › Rives Nature - La Gacilly Campsite ★ 4.2 Green campsite by the river, close to the centre. 30-minute walk, rated 4.2. › Pondside parking Glénac Parking ★ 4.6 Shaded area by the pond with tables. 29-minute walk, free and quiet. ›

Josselin Castle

One of Brittany’s most stunning medieval castles, Josselin Castle towers over the Oust Valley with its imposing towers and keep. The terraced gardens and guided tours are well worth the visit.

Where to sleep nearby

No restriction parking in Josselin Parking ★ 4 300 m from the castle, calm and spacious parking. Free, ideal for an overnight van stay. › Camping Les Cerisiers Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly green campsite, modern facilities. Rated 4.7, 21-minute walk. › Camping-Car Park Josselin Motorhome area ★ 4 Grass area by the canal, 7 minutes from the centre. 14€/night, 395 reviews. › Carmenais lock 32 canal parking Guillac Parking ★ 4.1 Free parking near the lock, untouched nature. 5 minutes by car, secluded setting. › Downtown parking Josselin Parking ★ 4.5 Large flat car park in the historic heart. Free, 6-minute walk from the castle. ›

La Roche-aux-Fées

Discover one of France’s largest megalithic alignments, a mysterious site listed as a historic monument. The 40 standing stones, erected 5000 years ago, captivate visitors of all ages.

Where to sleep nearby

Quiet parking La Roche aux Fées Essé Parking ★ 4.1 1 minute from the dolmens, grass and stabilised ground. Public toilets nearby, perfect for a mystical night. › Camping Municipal de l'Etang Campsite ★ 3.9 Peaceful pond setting, 19 pitches. Functional facilities, hot water, ideal for a nature stay. › Motorhome area library Retiers Motorhome area ★ 4.1 Full services (water, electricity, waste disposal) in the village centre. Free WiFi, park next door for relaxation. › Riverside parking Marcillé-Robert Parking ★ 4.8 Intimate grassy and shaded areas by the pond. Toilets and water available, countryside feel. › Flat parking with picnic table Retiers Parking ★ 5 Discreet pondside spot, picnic tables. Absolute tranquillity, flat and shaded parking. ›

The Village of La Gacilly

This picturesque village, famous for its open-air photography festival, charms visitors with its flower-lined streets and warm atmosphere. A delightful stop to wander and sample local specialities.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Du Bois Vert Campsite ★ 4.5 Family campsite by a pond, spacious pitches. 5 km away, rated 4.5, 16 reviews. › Shaded motorhome area near the river Glénac Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Free quiet area near the Oust, flat ground. 4 km away, rated 4.2, 127 reviews. › Quiet parking near canal locks Peillac Parking ★ 4.5 Shaded parking by the canal, water views. 6 km away, rated 4.5, 28 reviews. › Cat de la Gacilly parking La Gacilly Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking in the village centre, close to amenities. 4-minute walk, rated 4.5. › Rives Nature - La Gacilly Campsite ★ 4.2 Green campsite by the river, 5 minutes from the centre. Rated 4.2, 40 reviews. ›

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