4.4
(8)
65
riders
20
rides
Touring cycling in Forêt De Domnaiche offers a blend of accessible routes through a significant wooded area in Loire-Atlantique, France. The forest features a diverse arboreal composition, including broadleaf trees like oaks and chestnuts, alongside conifers. Its landscape provides a tranquil environment for cycling, with mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for various fitness levels. Historical features such as ancient megaliths and remnants of a Roman road are integrated into the cycling paths.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
4
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
40.9km
02:50
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
8
riders
64.4km
03:51
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
39.1km
02:23
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
70.6km
05:03
360m
360m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hello, your Point of Interest • 10 km cycle path from Rougé to Châteaubriant (48°16'19.6"N 1°39'50.1"W) is not located correctly on the map. Here are the correct coordinates: 47°46'48.7"N 1°27'11.3"W. Sincerely
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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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A scenic walk between the ramparts and the Torche Pond. A great spot to admire the castle. There's also a beautiful view from the bridge that crosses the Chère River.
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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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There are 19 touring cycling routes in Forêt de Domnaiche. These include 5 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, offering options for various skill levels.
The routes in Forêt de Domnaiche primarily feature well-paved surfaces, making them suitable for smooth rides. However, some segments may include unpaved sections, adding variety for experienced cyclists. The forest itself is a mix of broadleaf trees like oaks and chestnuts, and conifers.
Yes, Forêt de Domnaiche offers several easy routes perfect for casual riders, beginners, or families. An excellent option is the Bike loop from La Bourruais, which is 10.4 km (6.5 miles) long and takes about 40 minutes to complete with minimal elevation gain.
Forêt de Domnaiche is rich in history. Cyclists can explore ancient megaliths such as the Menhir de Briangault and the Menhir du Hochu. You might also encounter vestiges of a Roman road, remains of an old castle from around 1200, and a 12th-century hermitage or priory, all integrated into the landscape.
Yes, many routes in Forêt de Domnaiche are designed as loops. For example, the Old Teillay mine – Bain-Châteaubriant greenway loop from Sion-les-Mines is a moderate 40.9 km (25.4 miles) circular path that incorporates historical mining areas and greenway sections.
The forest offers diverse natural scenery, including a mix of broadleaf and conifer trees that provide vibrant seasonal colors. A notable natural feature is the Étang de Domnaiche (Domnaiche Pond), which is a scenic spot for relaxation. You can also find other ponds like Choisel Pond and La Hunaudière Pond along various routes.
The touring cycling routes in Forêt de Domnaiche are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil forest environment, the varied arboreal composition, and the presence of interesting historical sites and natural ponds.
While specific rules for dogs on cycling trails can vary, generally, dogs are welcome in public forest areas in France, often on a leash. It's advisable to check local signage or specific route descriptions for any restrictions, especially around sensitive wildlife areas.
Yes, several routes incorporate scenic ponds. For instance, the Étang de Saint-Aubin – Château de Châteaubriant loop from Ruffigné leads through varied landscapes including the Étang de Saint-Aubin. Another option is the Choisel Pond – Château de Châteaubriant loop from Ruffigné.
The forest offers a dynamic landscape that changes with the seasons. Spring brings the joyful freshness of greens, while autumn provides warm, vibrant colors. Both seasons are excellent for cycling, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable with the shade of the trees, and winter biking is possible, though conditions may vary.
Yes, for those seeking a more vigorous workout, there are longer and more challenging routes. The La Hunaudière Pond loop from Ruffigné is a moderate 46.0 km (28.6 miles) route with significant elevation gain, offering a more extended cycling experience.


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