Tourbière de Kerfontaine

Tourbière de Kerfontaine is a peat bog covering more than 22 hectares, tucked away in the heart of the Pinieux massif within the commune of Sérent, in the eastern part of the Morbihan department in Brittany. It ranks among the most fragile and ecologically valuable sites in the region, officially recognised as a sensitive natural area and protected as a communal reserve managed by the conservation association Bretagne Vivante.

How did this peat bog form?

The bog began developing roughly 5,000 years ago. It is fed by rainwater runoff from the surrounding hills as well as natural springs found in the area. Over thousands of years, accumulating and slowly decomposing vegetation built up the thick, waterlogged layer of peat that now underpins this remarkable ecosystem. Today it stands as the last significant peatland of this scale in eastern Morbihan and across the wider Landes de Lanvaux massif.

What plants and wildlife live here?

Botanists have recorded around 150 plant species within the bog, many of them legally protected. Among them are sphagnum mosses, including Magellan's sphagnum, alongside carnivorous plants such as the oblong-leaved sundew, round-leaved sundew, and common butterwort. The site is also home to narrow-leaved cotton grass, bog asphodel, and other specialist species typical of peatland habitats. In spring and summer the bog bursts into flower, drawing butterflies and dragonflies. Its damp, marshy conditions also support populations of frogs and lizards.

How can visitors explore the site?

A roughly 2-kilometre interpretive trail is open to the public free of charge throughout the year. Visitors can walk the route independently using audio guides, available during summer (July and August) at the information point in Sérent, and for the rest of the year at the town hall or at the Malestroit Tourist Office. Because the ground is wet and marshy, sturdy walking boots or rubber boots are strongly recommended.

From mid-July to mid-August, guided nature walks are organised on Friday afternoons, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the site's geological history and the plant and animal species that call it home. It's a good opportunity to understand the peatland's ecosystem alongside someone who knows the terrain well.

Why is it worth visiting?

Tourbière de Kerfontaine appeals to travellers seeking a genuine encounter with Brittany's wilder, less-altered landscapes, away from the region's more conventional tourist trail. Its peaceful setting, distinctive peatland flora, and opportunities to spot rare species make it a rewarding stop for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and anyone looking for a quiet walk outdoors. The site also connects to a broader network of nature trails around the Landes de Lanvaux massif, making it easy to combine with visits to other natural sites in eastern Morbihan.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, access to the interpretive trail is free year-round.

How long is the walking trail? The interpretive path is approximately 2 kilometres long.

Do I need a guide? Not necessarily — the trail can be walked independently with an audio guide, though guided nature walks are also available during summer.

What footwear should I wear? Given the marshy terrain, waterproof boots or sturdy walking shoes are recommended.