Guérande, the salt of history

Guérande is a historic town of character, listed as a Villes et Pays d'art et d'histoire**, nestling in the middle of its famous salt marshes.

Guérande, a town of 16,000 inhabitants, is just 10 kilometres from La Baule. After the pleasures of the sea, there's nothing like discovering a medieval town with a glorious past.

Guérande's narrow streets and monuments will appeal to history buffs. Romantic lovers won't be disappointed either. The town has a wealth of original walks.

Plan a day's visit entirely devoted to the capital of the salt marshes.

Guérande, la cité médiévale et la cathédrale

- © allouphoto / Shutterstock
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Guérande, at the heart of history

It was the Romans who first exploited salt and its many benefits. Over the course of history, Guérande became an active centre of the Duchy of Brittany.

At that time (14th century), the Guérande peninsula was rich in coveted commodities.

The region's products included salt, of course, but also wheat, vegetables and even wine. The town became a trading centre.

Traces of this history can be seen in the walled town. Guérande is a perfect example of a fortified medieval town.

The La Baule-Guérande Intercommunal Tourist Office offers guided tours.

La cathédrale de Guérande

- © Sergii Rudiuk / Shutterstock

Tour of the ramparts of Guérande

With a circumference of almost 1,500 metres, the ramparts of Guérande encircle the medieval town and the collegiate church of Saint-Aubin.

Guérande's ramparts still include 6 towers and 4 gates, including the famous Porte Saint-Michel.

Les remparts de Guérande

- © Pack-Shot / Shutterstock

To reach the top of the ramparts, head for the Porte Saint-Michel, built in the 15th century. It houses a museum with regularly changing temporary exhibitions.

Each year, visitors can choose between two different themes. Admission charge

The tour of the ramparts is a particularly popular route for families. The walk offers a glimpse of history and beautiful views over the town. It's a great way to combine fun and culture!

And if you're in town between late May and early June, don't miss the Guérande Medieval Festival. For two days, Guérande celebrates the Middle Ages throughout the town!

During this period, the town of Guérande is transformed. Entertainment is everywhere, with concerts, markets and events adding a unique atmosphere to the medieval town.

Guérande's white gold: salt!

Finally, Guérande is most famous for its white gold, its famous salt!

Take a trip to the market (every Wednesday and Saturday morning from 8am to 1pm). Among the stallholders are a number of salt producers who sell their harvests direct.

Alternatively, you can visit the Terre de Sel shop. This salt house is open every day. It is both a shop and an exhibition centre.

Where to stay near Guérande's historic centre?

The Remp'Arts hotel is just a stone's throw from the ramparts of the old town of Guérande.

This 2-star establishment is ideally located for exploring the old town. It's also a good base for exploring the salt marshes.

Each room has its own decor and atmosphere. The colours are vibrant and the comfort is notable. An address offering remarkable value for money.

Finally, a bar and a restaurant (bistro cuisine) are located on the ground floor of the hotel.

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Hotel Les Remp'Arts

The Remp'Arts hotel is just a stone's throw from the ramparts of the old town of Guérande, perfect for a historic trip not far from La Baule.
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Practical information

When should you come to Guérande?

Guérande is a weekend destination that attracts visitors all year round. However, it is during the summer months, from June to September, that the town is at its busiest.

Tourists from the peninsula and La Baule join visitors living in Guérande. Market days are particularly busy.

Out of season, the magic of the salt marshes and the quieter atmosphere are perfect for a romantic weekend off the beaten track.

The Guérande salt marshes

- © Pascale Gueret / Shutterstock

How do I get to Guérande?

The town of Guérande is served by the Lila Presqu'île bus network. Line 1 runs from Guérande to La Baule.

By road, from La Baule, just follow the D192, D213 and D774. The distance between the two towns is just 7 kilometres.

The nearest train station is La Baule.

Where can I park near the ramparts and Guérande town centre?

Most car parks in Guérande town centre are chargeable.

In summer, some car parks that are free the rest of the year also become chargeable (remember to find out and check once you're there).

Some free car parks also require a disc to be affixed to your windscreen.

by Editorial Team
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