4.4
(80)
438
riders
36
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in La Forêt Pavée are set within a natural environment characterized by forests and river valleys, particularly around the Don River. The region's topography is generally flat, typical of the Pays de la Loire, but offers varied terrain suitable for touring cyclists. This area features a mix of dedicated cycle paths and quiet country lanes, providing stable surfaces for cycling. Notable features include the retention lake at La Forge Neuve, an area rich in industrial…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
3.6
(5)
3
riders
25.7km
01:34
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
21.9km
01:23
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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16
riders
35.5km
02:27
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
82.5km
05:19
410m
410m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
39
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around La Forêt Pavée
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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Fortified church (the only one in the department) from the 11th century. The choir and transept were remodeled in 1849. A beautiful half-timbered house is on the other side of the road.
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Located in Teillay, this museum traces the history of coal mining, which marked the region from the 19th to the 20th century. Located on a former mining site, it presents machinery and miners' testimonies.
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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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Beautiful 25-hectare pond, which can be walked around on a very smooth white path.
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There are over 40 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes in La Forêt Pavée, offering a wide range of options for peaceful rides away from busy roads. These include routes of varying difficulty, from easy to difficult.
The Pays de la Loire region, including La Forêt Pavée, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers fresh greenery and blooming landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summers are typically warm, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal for rides. The region's generally flat topography makes it accessible for touring cyclists for much of the year.
The routes in and around La Forêt Pavée offer a mix of surfaces, including smooth, dedicated cycle paths and some quieter, unpaved sections. The region is known for its generally flat topography, though some routes may feature varied terrain with gentle ascents and descents, suitable for touring bikes. The extensive Pays de la Loire cycling network ensures well-maintained paths.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in La Forêt Pavée are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Bike loop from Issé, which offers a moderate ride through the local landscape.
Several routes pass by significant points of interest. You can explore the vast 17th-century industrial site of La Forge Neuve, featuring ancestral buildings and a dam on the Don River, which now forms a splendid retention lake. Other routes might take you past the impressive Château de Châteaubriant or natural features like the Courbetière Pond and Lac de Vioreau. For example, the Courbetière Pond – Château de Châteaubriant loop from Le Grand Chemin combines natural beauty with historical landmarks.
Yes, La Forêt Pavée offers several easy-grade touring routes that are ideal for families. These routes typically feature smoother surfaces and minimal elevation changes, ensuring a comfortable experience for cyclists of all ages. The region's commitment to cycling, including 'Accueil Vélo' (Cyclists Welcome) accreditation, supports family-friendly infrastructure.
Many of the no-traffic touring routes in La Forêt Pavée are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially those on dedicated paths or quiet country lanes. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations, especially in nature reserves or near private property. Ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
Parking is generally available at common starting points for many routes, particularly in or near towns like Louisfert and Châteaubriant, or at designated recreational areas. Look for public car parks in these locations, which often serve as convenient access points for the region's cycling network.
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a greater challenge, there are several difficult-grade routes available. These routes often cover longer distances and may include more varied terrain or gentle climbs. An example is the Port of Nort-sur-Erdre – West bridge at Lac de Vioreau loop from Issé, which offers a substantial ride with significant elevation.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the traffic-free routes, the beautiful natural settings of the forest and surrounding countryside, and the opportunity to discover historical sites like La Forge Neuve. The well-maintained paths and varied scenery are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
While direct public transport to every trailhead might be limited, regional bus services often connect larger towns like Châteaubriant, which can serve as a starting point for some routes. The Pays de la Loire region is generally cyclist-friendly, and some public transport options may accommodate bicycles, though it's best to check specific schedules and policies in advance.
While many routes offer a sense of peaceful seclusion, you'll often find cafes, bakeries, and small restaurants in the villages and towns that the routes pass through or near. Louisfert and Châteaubriant are good places to find amenities. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, or pack some snacks and water.


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