Nantes-Brest Canal, The

This handy, spiral bound guide, now in its fourth edition, contains detailed practical information for planning an excursion along the Nantes-Brest Canal across Brittany. It provides an invaluable reference source for long-distance walkers and cyclists, as well as those who simply enjoy ambling by water. A full introduction traces the history of the canal from its origins in Napoleonic times and construction early in the 19th century, through a brief economic heyday and tragic decline, to today’s role as an outstanding leisure resource. The main part of the book gives a section by section analysis of the canal, indicating the towpath route, leisure circuits that connect with it, locks, road junctions and nearby towns and villages. Useful and interesting information about the canal and all its attributes is interspersed throughout the text. Practicalities to assist visitors in planning their trip include accommodation (hotels, B&Bs, hostels, camping, etc.), and sources of refreshments and provisions close to the canal, as well as details of places of interest to visit in the vicinity.