Site de Kernansquillec en Vallée du Léguer

The Kernansquillec dam was built between 1920 and 1922 to supply electricity to the Vallée paper mill, one of Brittany?s most important industries in the 20th century. At 15 m high and 110 m long, the dam created a 2 km-long reservoir, flooding 12 ha of the valley. An impressive feat of engineering for its time, it was one of the very first multiple-arch dams in France.

Following the closure of the paper mills and the poor condition of the building, it was decided in 1995 to dismantle it, making Kernansquillec the first dam in France to be dismantled on a salmon river. It thus became a national symbol for the free movement of fish and the restoration of natural environments.

An ecotourism program was subsequently launched, reconciling tourism and agriculture.

Today, this splendid valley has regained its wild aspect and great ecological value, culminating in the label Rivière Sauvage (Wild River).

On site:

* Interpretation trail - La saga de Kernansquillec (2 km)

* Covered and uncovered picnic areas

* Permanent exhibition - Memories of the paper mill valley

Kergadalen parking lot

* Start of "La Vallée des Papeteries" hiking trail (10 km)

* Start of "Le diable en rit encore à Kernansquillec" treasure hunt (5 km)

Parking du bas - PMR access

* Start of Kernansquillec fly course - Parcours Passion

* GR 34A access

Guided tours, nature outings and exhibitions animate the site all year round. Full program available from the tourist office.

Dogs welcome all year round, on a leash.