Fishing The Vilaine River which runs next to Théhillac was host to the 2006 world fishing championships. There is also an excellent fishing lake called l’étang Kernevy set within woods between St Dolay and Missillac. Fishing Permits (Carte de Peche) can be purchased from fishing shops as well as the ‘Tabac’ (Newsagent) and PMU Bar in neighbouring St Dolay. The cost is 8€ for a day permit (available all year round) and 30€ for a 15 day permit which are only sold between June and September. Alternatively, annual permits are available for 53.50€ and are valid until 31st of December irrespective of when during the year the permit was purchased. There are two fishing shops in nearby Redon, La Clef des Champs on Place Duchesse Anne at the top of the main pedestrian street and Europeche on Rue des Douves (straight on at the traffic lights next to the marina when entering Redon from Rieux direction). Brittany’s rivers and canals are divided into two categories: Trout fishing and the fishing of Category 1 Waterways is only permitted between the 10th of March and the 16th of September. The Fishing of Pike, Black Bass, Perch and Zander on Category 2 waterways is permitted between the 1st and 28th of January and from the 12th of May to the 31st of December. Fishing for White Fish on Category 2 waterways is permitted all year round. Here is a summary of commonly found species of fish in Brittany:
We will be happy to supply you with a map of the regions major lakes and rivers detailing which category they belong to. Golf The nearest golf course is the superb Golfe de la Bretesche in Missillac just ten minutes drive from Théhillac. Set within the grounds of a lakeside chateau, the course is internationally renowned and also has a golf shop and an excellent restaurant. The course is drained and is therefore playable throughout the year. During busy periods it is advisable to book in advance (English spoken). Further details can be found on their website www.golf-bretesche.com or alternatively by calling Other courses which have been recommended by our guests are within easy reach at Savenay (30 miles) and Baden (40 miles). Birdwatching The nearby Brière region is France’s second largest marshland area and a birdwatchers paradise. The Réserve Pierre Constant ornithological reserve covers 25 hectares and contains a 1.5km trail complete with hides. The reserve is open from June to September and can be contacted for further information on 00 33 2 40 91 17 80. There is also an ornithological park called Ker Anas which has over 100 species of duck and is also open from the start of June through to the end of September. There are also numerous sites which can be observed freely throughout the year and guests reports seeing specimens such as Night Herons and Marsh Harriers. Below is a summary of the bird species to be seen in the region:
Kids A popular excursion for kids is the Branféré Animal and Botanical Park set within the grounds of a chateau at Le Guerno. The park bills itself as “an eclectic mix of easy going wildlife which co-exists harmoniously in delightful surroundings” and contains over 120 species from five different continents, including giraffes and zebras. Each day between April and October there is a spectacular bird show featuring parrots, herons and pelicans which is billed by the park as “an aerial ballet”. Guided tours of the Chateau itself are run during July and August. The park is just 17 miles from Théhillac and is open every day from February to November. For further details visit www.branfere.com or call 00 33 2 97 42 94 66. Another good day out for the kids is the Parc de Préhistoire pre-historic park at Malansac. The park is set within 20 hectares of woodland and contains five lakes and 30 life-sized scenes ranging from the dinosaurs to 2 000 BC. All information boards are in English as well as French, German, Spanish and Italian. The park is just 15 miles from Théhillac and is open everyday from April until November. Further details can be obtained from visiting Boat Trips A firm favourite with kids and adults are the Vedettes Jaunes boat trips which depart from Redon and La Roche Bernard and take in the sights of the Vilaine Estuary down to the barrage d’Arzal. The boats have two levels, panoramic views, are air conditioned and include commentary. The company also do lunch and dinner cruises The trips run from April until September and with the exception of during July and August must be reserved in advance. More information can be obtained by calling 00 33 2 97 45 02 81 or via their website www.vedettesjaunes.com. Water Sports Just a few minutes drive outside of Théhillac is the Etang Aumée lake which is a pleasant stretch of water surrounded by woods with a man-made beach for swimming, wind surfing and other water sports. There is a path around the lake which makes for an ideal stroll. Small rowing boats, windsurfing boards, pedal boats and sailing dinghies are all available for hire. Sailing and windsurfing lessons are provided from July until the end of August. More information can be obtained from The Redon Nautical Club by calling 00 33 2 99 72 12 67. Another alternative is the Ecole Francaise de Voile sailing school at La Roche Bernard. Sailing lessons are provided for children and adults at all levels. Boat and canoe hire is also available. They operate all year round and can be contacted on 00 33 2 99 90 83 25 or via www.loisirstempslibre.fr.st For those who prefer to ‘ride the waves’ there are also water sports possibilities aplenty on the seafront at the La Baule and at various other locations along the coast. |