Local and regional trails

Local routes and trails

During his lifetime, Saint Columbanus founded five abbeys. Two centuries later, more than 80 abbeys, between Normandy and Italy were observing the rule of Columbanus - before adopting the Benedictine rule, by decision of Charlemagne. These monastic foundations influenced the very nature of the territories that they managed; and were central to the development of western part Europe as we know it.

These regional routes and trails allow the walker to discover the influence of Irish monasticism on medieval Europe, and the rich heritage of Columbanus.

Region Tro Breizh de Colomban - France

The Tro Breizh forms a wide loop around Brittany, linking 45 sites that perpetuate the memory of Saint Columbanus, of his companion Saint Gall and of other monks of the Irish Movement that came to Brittany.

This 1700km route is divided into five parts that can be traveled separately or successively. They can be accessed through the following links:

19. Brittany Region (1/5)

20. Brittany Region (2/5)

21. Brittany Region (3/5)

22. Brittany Region (4/5)

23. Brittany Region (5/5)

Region liaison Annegray-Bâle - France

This trail runs through the Franche-Comté and then Alsace regions. It was not travelled by Columbanus, but it forms a link for pilgrims arriving in Luxeuil to reach Basel, on their way to between Carlow and Bobbio.   

This attractive trail, through a rich and varied landscape, runs for 140km; and is accessible through the following link:

24. Region Annegray - Basel