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France
Pays de la Loire
Châteaubriant-Ancenis

Moisdon-La-Rivière

The best walks and hikes around Moisdon-La-Rivière

4.6

(94)

609

hikers

47

hikes

Hiking around Moisdon-La-Rivière offers diverse landscapes characterized by waterways, forests, and unique "landes" or heaths. The Don River carves through schist plateaus, providing varied terrain for trails. Notable features include the Étang de la Forge and the historical Site des Forges, which serve as starting points for many routes. The region's natural environment combines wooded areas with open heathlands, offering a range of hiking experiences.

Best hiking trails around Moisdon-La-Rivière

  • The most popular hiking route is Forges of Moisdon-la-Rivière –…

Last updated: July 4, 2026

5.0

(3)

55

hikers

#1.

Forges of Moisdon-la-Rivière – La Forge Neuve loop from Grand-Auverné

10.1km

02:37

60m

60m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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5.0

(1)

10

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Moisdon-La-Rivière

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Tips from the Community

Pussy et Gégé
June 10, 2025, Église Catholique - St-Nicolas de Châteaubriant ⛪️✨🌿

The church, which consists of a large nave and two six-bay aisles, a transept, and a three-bay choir without an ambulatory, is 65 meters long. The transept is 26.50 m long, and the naves are 17.5 m wide. The bell tower is 65 meters high without the cross. It has a set of five bells made in 1895 by the Bollée foundry in Le Mans: Saint-Nicolas (the bourdon), weighing 4027 kg, playing the A of octave 2 Anne, weighing 1552 kg, playing the D of octave 3 Marie, weighing 1067 kg, playing the M of octave 3 Joséphine-Jeanne, weighing 726 kg, playing the F sharp of octave 3 Henriette-Victorienne, weighing 450 kg, playing the A of octave 3

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The original chapel, initially dedicated to Notre-Dame, was built by Geoffroy IV, Baron of Châteaubriant, on the site where the cattle market was held from May to October until 1763. A text attests to its existence in 1263. [Threatening to fall into ruin, it was demolished in 1518, leaving only the choir of the old chapel standing. The place of worship was immediately rebuilt in a more spacious form using Châteaubriant schist (Nozay stone), based on the plans of Jean Delorme, brother of Philibert Delorme, thanks to the demolition of a neighboring house and the financial support of Jean de Laval. However, the latter's poor financial situation meant that by 1530, only the nave of the building had been built. At the death of Françoise de Foix in 1537 and Jean de Laval in 1543, the Notre-Dame chapel still lacked a framework. It was not until 1551 that the final work was undertaken by Baron Anne de Montmorency. The dedication of the new place of worship took place ten years later, on November 5, 1561, in the presence of the coadjutor of the Bishop of Nantes, and the name of Notre-Dame was changed to Saint-Nicolas, for an unknown reason. On the same day, the body of Jean de Laval, then encased in a lead reliquary, was transported from the castle chapel to the new building. Jean de Laval had wished to see the chapel erected as a collegiate church, but this wish was not granted. However, the building, as vast as a church, shared the honors of worship with the Church of Saint-Jean de Béré, which was then the parish church of the town, until the Revolution. Indeed, the Saint-Nicolas chapel, although of undeniable architectural value, was not suitable for worship in a parish as large as that of Châteaubriant. Nevertheless, in the 15th and 16th centuries, masses, vespers, and many ceremonies were held in the chapel for reasons of convenience, as it was closer to the town of Châteaubriant, while baptisms were all celebrated at Saint-Jean de Béré. At the end of the 19th century, the church, which became the parish seat in 1801, was completely rebuilt. The architect Eugène Boismen drew up the plans, inspired by those of the Saint-Nicolas basilica in Nantes, one of the first neo-Gothic projects in France, which was beginning to inspire architects throughout the west of the country. The foundation stone was blessed on April 25, 1875, by Bishop Fournier of Nantes. The choir, sacristies, transept, and five bays were only completed at the time of the consecration, which was performed by his successor, Bishop Le Coq, on February 1, 1881. The foundations of the bell tower and the remaining bay began in June 1892, based on plans by architect François Bougoüin. The tower and spire were completed in August 1894.

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nighttime. A medieval fortress and Renaissance building, Châteaubriant Castle recounts ten centuries of history. In the Middle Ages, Châteaubriant Castle was at the heart of the Marches of Brittany. It served as a stronghold defending the duchy against the Kingdom of France. The keep, ramparts, seigneurial chapel, and the medieval courtyard lodgings still bear witness to the power of this fortress. In the 16th century, the bailey became a residence opening onto the gardens. The castle gardens are open to the public from February to December. Visit maps are available at the reception-shop for a better understanding of the site. A 3D space allows you to discover, with free access, the architectural evolution of the castle, from the 11th century to the present day. From February to December, heritage mediators will accompany you on an in-depth tour of the castle, its keep, and its gardens. During school holidays, family workshops allow parents and children to develop their creativity or spark their curiosity! Opening days: Gardens are open to the public, Wednesday to Sunday: 9am-6pm (February-March and October-December) or 9am-7:30pm (April-September). Prices: - Free entry for those over €0.00 (Free access to the château gardens) - Individual adult rate from €3.00 to €6.00 (Guided tours, free for those on minimum income and special cards) - Individual child rate from €0.00 (Guided tours free for those under 26) - Individual child rate from €0.00 (Guided tours free for those under 26) Child from €4.00 to €8.00 (Family activity) - Adult group rate from €5.00 (From 15 people) Payment methods: Credit cards - Bank and postal checks - Cash Tours Self-guided tours (individual): Yes Guided tours (individual): Yes Average visit duration (individual): 1 hour Self-guided tours (groups): Yes Guided tours on request (groups): Yes Guided tours (groups): Yes Average visit duration (groups): 1 hour Languages: Tour: French, English - Signs: French, English Services: Interactive kiosk - Shop - WiFi Additional information: Groups of 15 people or more are welcome - Pets allowed (Dogs on leashes are allowed in the park.) - Points of interest visible without a tour Access Location: SNCF train station: 0.5 km

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This recently built church (end of the 19th century) is visible from afar with its 65 meters in height.

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Fred
May 23, 2025, La Forge Neuve

A vast industrial forge site dating back to the 17th century. The natural setting is also remarkable, with the dam on the Don River creating a splendid reservoir that supplied the forges. A favorite is Rue des Rochers Bleus and its hanging pine tree.

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The castle is a self-guided tour. A little tip: there are bike racks inside the castle, just beyond the entrance.

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Former site of industrial forges in the 17th century, you will discover a landscape bathed in greenery, the pond and the ancestral buildings carved out of the beautiful blue stone. Starting point for hiking trails. Another essential element of the forges site, the large coal storage hall of yesterday transformed today into a museum (free entry). The Forge Neuve museum explains in a clear and fun way the mining past and work in the forges from the 17th to the 19th century. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forges_de_Moisdon-la-Rivi%C3%A8re

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To visit for the end of year celebrations, like the whole city center in fact.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Moisdon-La-Rivière?

There are nearly 50 hiking trails around Moisdon-La-Rivière, offering a variety of experiences. These include 24 easy routes and 23 moderate routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels.

Are there any easy or beginner-friendly hikes in the area?

Yes, Moisdon-La-Rivière offers many easy hikes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk. An excellent option is the La Forge Neuve – Forges of Moisdon-la-Rivière loop from Grand-Auverné, an easy 4.9 km path that explores the historic Forges area with gentle terrain.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking here?

Hikers in Moisdon-La-Rivière will encounter diverse landscapes, including trails along the Don River, through unique 'landes' (heaths or moors) with abundant plant species, and wooded areas. The region is also characterized by schist plateaus and attractive bodies of water like the Étang de la Forge.

Are there any circular walks available?

Many of the trails in Moisdon-La-Rivière are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Étang de Beaumont loop from Beaumont is an easy 4.7 km circular trail around the Étang de Beaumont.

What historical sites or attractions can I visit along the trails?

The region is rich in history. A key attraction is the Forges of Moisdon-la-Rivière, a 17th-century industrial site with ancestral buildings and a museum. Many trails, such as the Forges of Moisdon-la-Rivière – La Forge Neuve loop from Grand-Auverné, start from here, combining historical discovery with nature walks. You can also see the Vioreau Reservoir Dam, built in 1835.

Are there any family-friendly hiking options?

Yes, several trails are suitable for families. The easy loops around the local ponds, such as the Étang de la Mouette loop from Erbray, which is 5.7 km, offer pleasant and manageable walks for all ages.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Moisdon-La-Rivière?

The trails in Moisdon-La-Rivière are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from riverbanks to unique heathlands, and the well-integrated historical elements.

Are there any trails that offer panoramic views?

Yes, the 'landes' (heaths or moors) in Moisdon-La-Rivière are known for offering beautiful panoramic views. Trails that traverse these areas, such as the Sentier de la Lande du Don mentioned in regional research, provide elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

Can I find trails near larger bodies of water?

Absolutely. The Étang de la Forge is a central feature for many walks, and the region is also close to the Lac de Vioreau, the largest body of water in Loire-Atlantique. You can explore highlights like the West bridge at Lac de Vioreau or Lake Vioreau itself.

Is there a good time of year to visit Moisdon-La-Rivière for hiking?

The diverse landscapes of Moisdon-La-Rivière can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Some trails through the 'landes' may have restrictions during hunting periods, so it's advisable to check local information if planning a visit during autumn or winter.

Are there any trails that pass by castles or other significant landmarks?

While Moisdon-La-Rivière itself is known for its forges, a short distance away you can find the Châteaubriant Castle. There is an easy 2.9 km loop, the Châteaubriant Castle – Château de Châteaubriant loop from Châteaubriant, that explores this historic site.

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