The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Etang De Vioreau
4.5
(123)
799
hikers
20
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Etang De Vioreau are set within a protected natural area, centered around the largest inland navigable body of water in the Loire-Atlantique department. The landscape is characterized by the expansive Lake Vioreau, its wooded banks, and the surrounding Vioreau Forest, which offers shaded trails. This region plays a crucial role in supplying the Nantes-Brest Canal with water, featuring historical structures like the Vioreau Reservoir Dam and the Arcades Trail along the canal's food channel. The…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
7.54km
01:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(2)
3
hikers
9.37km
02:24
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.5km
02:45
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The west bridge of Lake Voireau offers a beautiful, unobstructed view of the reservoir. The largest body of water in Loire-Atlantique, this lake stretches through the heart of the forest. Its wooded banks and landscaped beaches make it a pleasant stopover for a nature break or a swim.
0
0
A perfect place to relax or have a picnic. You can cross the Erdre River to take a path opposite.
0
0
Very beautiful place, banks of the Erdre below. Nice place to relax.
0
0
This archway is accessible, but the following ones toward Nort-sur-Erdre are not, due to ongoing safety work. A beautiful spot down below for a picnic on the banks of the Erdre.
0
0
The Ajaux channel connects the Riaillé lakes (La Provostière and La Poitevinière) to the large Vioreau Reservoir. The water thus transported supplies the Nantes-Brest canal.
0
0
The Provostière pond, with a surface area of 73 ha, is connected to the Vioreau lake by the Rigole des Ajaux. This complex is part of the supply system of the Nantes-Brest canal. Its hydraulic management is ensured by the Loire-Atlantique Department, which has owned it since 2008. A 5.5 km path on which a bird observatory is located allows you to go around the pond in about 1h30.
0
0
François Bureau, known as "Franchik", was born on April 23, 1921. He regularly stayed in the family fiefdom at the Château de la Meilleraie, in Riaillé. After studying in Nantes, he was admitted to the Saint-Cyr officers' school in 1943. During this period, he was, like so many other men, affected by the STO (Compulsory Work Service), but he decided to leave the country rather than work in Germany, in order to join "the fighting France". Handed over to the Germans with comrades by the smuggler, he was arrested on July 18, 1943, in Perpignan. Then began the transfers from camp to concentration camp: Büchenwald, Laura, Ellrich, Nordhausen. He was part of a medical convoy of more than 1,600 patients. Many died during and after the transfer. He was one of the few survivors. It is at Nordhausen, his last camp, that we can follow his trail. The camp was liberated on April 12, 1945 by the Americans. Death papers mention his death on April 21, 1945, before his repatriation, nine days after the liberation of the camp. François Bureau was therefore free on the day of his death, after more than eighteen months of deportation in Germany. https://www.ouest-france.fr/pays-de-la-loire/ancenis-saint-gereon-44150/francois-bureau-etait-un-homme-de-conviction-4390446
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Etang de Vioreau?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking trails around Etang de Vioreau, with 6 of them rated as easy, making them ideal for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes around Etang de Vioreau?
Family hikes around Etang de Vioreau offer a beautiful mix of landscapes. You'll find expansive views of Lake Vioreau, shaded paths through the Vioreau Forest, and areas known for their rich flora and abundant birdlife, especially around the 'Petit Vioreau' area.
Are there any easy circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy circular routes perfect for families. A great option is the West bridge at Lac de Vioreau – Lake Vioreau loop from La Romeraye, which offers a pleasant walk around the lake with beautiful views.
What interesting sights or landmarks can we discover on these trails?
Many trails offer fascinating sights. You can explore the historic Vioreau Reservoir Dam, built in 1835, or enjoy stunning views from the West bridge at Lac de Vioreau. The Arcades Trail near Vioreau is also a magnificent path bordering the Nantes-Brest Canal's 'food channel'.
Are the trails around Etang de Vioreau suitable for strollers or very young children?
While many trails are generally accessible, some sections might be unpaved or uneven. For very young children or strollers, we recommend checking the trail details for specific surface information. Generally, paths closer to the lake shore tend to be flatter and more suitable.
Can we bring our dog on family hikes in this area?
Etang de Vioreau is generally dog-friendly, and many trails welcome leashed dogs. It's always a good idea to keep your dog under control, especially given the rich birdlife and other wildlife in the area. Please check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Where can we find parking for family-friendly hikes?
Parking is generally available at various access points around Etang de Vioreau, particularly near popular starting points for hiking circuits and recreational areas. Look for designated parking lots near the main attractions like the dam or the supervised beach area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Etang de Vioreau?
The spring and autumn months are particularly pleasant for family hiking, offering mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. In summer, the shaded forest paths provide a welcome escape from the heat, and you can combine your hike with a swim at the supervised beach. Winter can also be beautiful, though some facilities might be closed.
Are there places to picnic or facilities available along the family routes?
Yes, Etang de Vioreau is well-equipped for families. You'll find shaded picnic tables and designated picnic areas, along with amenities like sanitary facilities, showers, and even a snack bar, especially near the main recreational zones.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Etang de Vioreau?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forest, the beautiful lake views, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any less crowded options for a peaceful family outing?
While the main lake loop can be popular, exploring trails further into the Vioreau Forest or around areas like 'Petit Vioreau' can offer a more serene experience. The Memorial stone – Provostière Pond loop from Le Bois is a moderate option that might offer more solitude.
Besides hiking, what other activities can families enjoy at Etang de Vioreau?
Etang de Vioreau offers a wide array of family-friendly activities beyond hiking. You can enjoy swimming at the supervised beach, various water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, or land-based activities such as archery and mountain biking. There's also an ornithological observatory for birdwatching.
Are there any routes that offer great views of the lake?
Absolutely! Many routes provide stunning lake views. The Grand Réservoir de Vioreau – Lake Vioreau loop from La Demenure is a moderate option that circles the reservoir, ensuring plenty of picturesque vistas of the water and its wooded banks.
Most popular routes around Etang De Vioreau
Most popular attractions around Etang De Vioreau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
