Guer

Sweet nature

Guer means “alders” in Welsh and “marsh” in Breton, no wonder when what surrounds it happens to be Brocéliande forest and the nature reserve of the moors of Monteneuf. To feel this connection with nature at its best, what better way to discover it than to ride a bike and set off on the greenway. This former railroad track linking Guipry-Messac to Ploërmel, offers a 47 kms itinerary, around which the hiking loops are articulated.

Historical discovery

A few kilometers from Guer, stands the Priory of Saint-Etienne, discreet and surrounded by greenery it hides within it many treasures including one of the oldest chapels in Morbihan. In the 19th century, its chapel was rediscovered by intellectuals but it was not until 1957 that its beauty was fully revealed! While a CNRS researcher was fishing in the Oyon, the river that borders the priory, the rain began to fall and he found refuge in the chapel. He scraped the plaster covering the walls and discovered 15th century frescoes… Today and this, since 1971 the chapel is classified as a historical monument.

An international reputation

Guer, a quiet and restful town hides a much more unusual side than its appearance suggests. Just drive a few kilometers to find yourself in a world where the uniform is king and the cadence step an obligation. The city is home to the Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan Academy which train all the officers of the French Army and many foreign officers from all continents.

The Musée de l’Officier tribute to figures in French military history such as Napoleon I, Lyautey and de Gaulle, but also to the bravery and sense of duty of lesser-known officers who fell on the field of honour or served our country.

Every year, the “Triomphe de Saint-Cyr” takes place: a colorful day giving the opportunity to all visitors to discover the academy, the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. This celebration marks the end of the cadets’ schooling and retraces, through spectacular life-size re-enactments, the military history of the “Saint-Cyriens” and the life of the schools.