4.4
(91)
669
riders
31
rides
Gravel biking around Petit-Mars offers access to a network of routes characterized by diverse landscapes. The region features a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including paths along the Erdre River and the Canal de Nantes à Brest. Riders can explore rural areas, marshes, and gentle elevations, providing varied terrain for different skill levels. This area is known for its waterways and natural settings, making it suitable for no traffic gravel bike trails.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(6)
47
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
29
riders
39.8km
02:04
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(4)
28
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.6
(5)
35
riders
77.5km
03:50
190m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
21
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Petit-Mars
Nicknamed the «pearl of the Erdre», the port of Sucé-sur-Erdre is an unmissable charming stopover where lively terraces and pleasure boats coexist in a green and peaceful setting. It is the ideal starting point for strolling along the quays or taking a trip on the water, to discover one of the most beautiful rivers in France.
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Even at 6 a.m. super pleasant and very smooth
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After a few kilometers, stopping at this guinguette is a pure pleasure of relaxation
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Very comfortable track to do, the trees provide shade and freshness, freshness also provided (on certain locks) to enjoy a very refreshing drink
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Very pretty, relaxing. Possibility of refueling by bike.
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Also known as the "basin," the port of Nort-sur-Erdre is a lively, historic neighborhood that's a great place to stop off. At the foot of the Saint-Georges Bridge, which separates the wild Erdre from the navigable Erdre, the marina is now a popular place for walking and fishing. Free Wi-Fi access near the Tourist Office Contact the harbor master's office for an extended stay; the first two nights are free. Open year-round Type of facility: Slipway - River stopover - Pontoon - Marina Payment methods: Bank and postal checks Access location: Nort-sur-Erdre train station: 1 km Languages spoken: French Facilities: Picnic area - Restrooms - Services - Playground
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The construction of Port Mulon Castle dates back to the 19th century. Of its various owners, it primarily preserves the memory of Prosper Coinquet. Born in 1825 in Nantes, Prosper Coinquet was mayor of Nort-sur-Erdre twice, from 1859 to 1874, and again from 1877 to 1892. He was also a general councilor for the Loire-Inférieure department from 1883 to 1887. This lawyer by training was also a great lover of the arts. He was himself a musician and poet. He composed numerous songs and waltzes that enjoyed considerable regional success. He dedicated one of his waltzes, simply titled "Le port Mulon," to his castle. Prosper Coinquet chaired or was a member of several musical and literary societies. It was therefore only natural that he decided to make the château the setting for evenings dedicated to the arts. Readings and concerts were held in the park or in the reception hall. Nantes artists invited to perform came by way of the Erdre River. The setting, its tranquil riverbank, and its magnificent park wooded with rare species, thus retain the imprint of the music that was performed there until 1892. That year, Prosper Coinquet died at home. Since 2006, music has once again resonated in the park's foliage. Indeed, at the end of June, the venue hosts the La Nuit de L'Erdre festival. Today, the Château de Port Mulon and its park are managed by the municipality of Nort-sur-Erdre. A reception hall can be rented from the town hall, whether for private or professional events. You can also take yoga classes at the château. As for the Nantes Atlantique improvisation league, it has made it its headquarters. Finally, since 2017, the place has become a coworking space whose success continues unabated. As for the park, it's a place where, in addition to enjoying its vast spaces and magnificent trees, you can indulge in an orienteering course. Twenty markers are scattered throughout, and by exploring them, you'll learn much more about the treasures it contains. During your stroll, you'll undoubtedly encounter riders who enjoy riding their horses there. And if, at nightfall, you spot the fluttering shadows of numerous bats, don't be surprised. For several years, the castle and grounds have been havens for these nocturnal animals.
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Nestled along the Nantes-Brest Canal, the Écluse de la Tindière lodge welcomes hikers and cycle tourists looking for comfortable overnight stays in a relaxing setting. The rooms offer stunning views of the canal!
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There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Petit-Mars, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties to explore the region's natural beauty.
The no-traffic gravel trails around Petit-Mars feature a diverse mix of surfaces, including peaceful paths along waterways like the Erdre River and the Nantes-Brest Canal, as well as rural tracks through marshes and past historic villages. You'll find a blend of paved and unpaved sections, with moderate ascensions in some areas, providing varied riding experiences.
Yes, there are several easy no-traffic gravel routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Tindière Lock – Rabinière lock loop from Casson offers a gentle ride of about 38 km with minimal elevation gain, ideal for those new to gravel biking.
Absolutely. Experienced riders looking for a longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel experience can consider routes like the Quay at Sucé-sur-Erdre – Haut-Gesvres Castle loop from Sucé-sur-Erdre. This route spans over 55 km and includes significant elevation changes, providing a demanding ride through varied landscapes.
Many no-traffic gravel routes will take you past significant natural features and landmarks. You can explore the rich ecosystems of the Erdre River, a Natura 2000 site known for its birdlife, or discover local wetlands like the Marais de Blanche Noë. Historic sites such as old mills, the 16th-century Pommeraie manor, and the Château du Pont-Hus are also often visible. Don't miss the Tindière Lock or the Sucé-sur-Erdre marina.
Many of the no-traffic gravel trails, especially those along the Nantes-Brest Canal or the quieter sections of the Erdre River, are suitable for families due to their flat terrain and absence of vehicle traffic. For dogs, it's generally advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and always ensure they are well-behaved around other cyclists and wildlife.
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Petit-Mars are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Lock 11 — La Prée – Port of Blain loop from Écluse de la Rabinière, which offers a moderate 43 km ride.
The region around Petit-Mars is enjoyable for gravel biking for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer can be warm but is ideal for rides along the waterways. Even winter can be suitable, though some paths might be muddier, especially in marshy areas.
Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Sucé-sur-Erdre, Nort-sur-Erdre, or Casson. Look for public parking areas near the canals or river ports, which often provide convenient access to the trails.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the scenic beauty of the Erdre River and canal paths, and the opportunity to discover charming rural landscapes and historic sites away from busy roads.
For those seeking longer adventures, routes like the Paudais lock – Port of Blain loop from Nort-sur-Erdre stretch for over 77 km, offering an extensive journey through the region's diverse terrain without encountering vehicle traffic. The Nantes-Brest Canal towpath also provides very long, traffic-free sections.
The region around Nantes has good public transport links, and some local train lines or bus services may allow bikes, especially outside of peak hours. This can be useful for reaching starting points or returning from longer one-way rides. It's always best to check the specific transport provider's bike policy in advance.


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