Natural beauty
La Gacilly celebrates the harmony of shale, gorse and rivers. Situated in the lush Aff valley, the village features alignments of houses with gleaming shutters. Its dynamism has flourished with the business of Yves Rocher. Using plants and nature, this well-known name in cosmetics set up its production facilities, botanical garden, an ecological hotel-spa and, at the end of 2017, the surprising Maison Yves Rocher. In its wake, around 30 craftspeople have opened workshops in the narrow streets.
Plant secrets
A bamboo plantation leads to the Yves Rocher botanical garden. Here in this observatory with over 1,500 plant species, the company studies the virtues of plants. The visit is free and you’ll find out a few secrets of beneficial plants!
A new look at stone
Strolling around the mostly pedestrianised streets is very enjoyable. If you let your inspiration guide you, and perhaps the noise of a hammer or plane, you might see sculptors, potters, jewellery designers, coppersmiths, glass-makers, etc. at work. A Town of Arts and Crafts, La Gacilly unites talented craftspeople whose workshops line up in the descent towards the Aff.
Other works are displayed on the façades during the famous La Gacilly Photo Festival. From June to September, the commune becomes an open-air gallery!
Close to nature
Fun activities thrive along the banks of the Aff, giving you a different look at things. On the water, electric boats, water bikes and canoes allow you to get close to nature. The trails on the towpaths reveal the heritage of this region full of contrasting landscapes. In the Oust Lower Valley, a listed “Grand site naturel”, Ile-aux-pies unveils steep hillsides ideal for climbing.
