The best hikes from bus stations around Etang De Vioreau
4.5
(123)
799
hikers
5
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Etang De Vioreau are centered on the largest navigable inland body of water in the Loire-Atlantique department, spanning 200 hectares. The area features wooded banks and the extensive Vioreau forest, creating a diverse natural environment. This region also serves as a crucial reservoir for the Nantes-Brest Canal, with historical structures like the Vioreau Dam. The landscape is characterized by its rich flora and abundant birdlife, offering varied terrain for outdoor exploration.
Best bus station hiking…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
12
hikers
7.87km
02:02
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
19
hikers
8.31km
02:15
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
7.39km
01:59
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
12.1km
03:05
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.81km
02:06
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This beautiful pond, fed by the Janneau stream, is unfortunately private and off-limits to the public. It can be seen from the D14.
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This church was built in the mid-19th century. It can be seen from afar from the surrounding hills, as its size is remarkable for a small village.
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Beautiful 19th-century washhouse located on the Erdre River. A footbridge provides a beautiful view of the washhouse and the river. Picnic tables are available.
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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.
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The ornithological observatory allows you to discover a large number of birds such as the kingfisher, the black-headed gull, the herring gull, the cormorant, the great crested grebe, the grey heron, the egret and the moorhen.
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July 25, 1944, shortly after 3 p.m., a Mosquito type plane, a light and fast twin-engine, appeared in the sky of Riaillé, followed a few seconds later by two German fighter planes. Arriving above the hamlet of l'Enclose, one of the fighters gained altitude and dove on the Canadian plane, riddling it with bullets. After starting a curve, the burning Mosquito crashed very close to the Provostière pond. The debris littered the ground for about fifty meters, the fire and the explosion of the ammunition made it impossible to approach. When the fire died down, the inhabitants rushed to the scene and found the charred bodies of the pilot and the navigator. They were identified as Lieutenants Burgess and McPherson. The Germans, who came to the scene, told the mayor that he could bury the bodies but without an official ceremony. However, the occupier's orders were not respected. The bodies were wrapped in sheets and transported to a nearby farm, the village carpentry made the coffins. The next day, a religious ceremony was held in the parish church in the presence of many Riaillé residents and wreaths of flowers covered the coffins. The procession then headed to the cemetery under the supervision of German soldiers who did not intervene. For 80 years, these two Canadian officers have been resting in the Riaillé cemetery. Their tomb is regularly maintained and decorated with flowers by the UNC-Riaillé Mémoire association but also by anonymous people who thus perpetuate the memory of their sacrifice. https://www.echoancenis.fr/actualite-4422-riaille-le-25-juillet-1944-deux-aviateurs-canadiens-etaient-abattus-dans-le-ciel-de-riaille
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The water mills mark the route of the Erdre trail, first the Moulin Pelé then that of the Benâte.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible directly from bus stations around Etang de Vioreau?
There are 5 dedicated hiking routes around Etang de Vioreau that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These trails offer a convenient way to explore the region's natural beauty without needing a car.
Are there easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus around Etang de Vioreau?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families or beginners. For instance, the Mount Juillet – Le Mont Juillet loop from Les Touches is an easy 7.5 km hike. Another great option is the Notre-Dame Church – Le Moulin Pelé loop from Riaillé, which is also rated as easy and offers pleasant scenery.
What kind of natural scenery can I expect on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
The trails around Etang de Vioreau offer diverse scenery, from the wooded banks of the lake to the extensive Vioreau forest. You'll encounter picturesque landscapes, rich flora, and abundant birdlife, including migratory species. The area is known for its refreshing natural environment and the changing colors of the landscape throughout the seasons.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the bus-accessible routes?
Yes, several routes offer access to interesting points. You can explore the impressive Vioreau Reservoir Dam, a 130-meter stone structure built in 1835. The West bridge at Lac de Vioreau provides stunning panoramic views of the reservoir. Some trails also border the Arcades Trail, which follows the 'food channel' of the Nantes-Brest Canal.
Can I find circular hiking routes that start and end at a bus stop?
Absolutely. All 5 of the bus-accessible routes in this guide are circular, meaning you'll end up back where you started. This makes planning your public transport connections straightforward. Examples include the Mount Juillet loop from Les Touches and the Provostière Pond – Stele of the Aviators loop from Riaillé.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails around Etang de Vioreau?
Etang de Vioreau is beautiful year-round, with the changing seasons offering different appeals. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, while summer allows for combining hikes with swimming at the supervised beach. Even winter offers a unique, tranquil experience with fewer crowds.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls or significant water elements?
While the main attraction is the vast Etang de Vioreau itself, a short detour near the Vioreau Reservoir Dam can lead you to a pretty waterfall. Many routes also offer scenic views of the lake and its wooded banks, such as the Lakeside path.
What do other hikers say about the bus station trails in Etang de Vioreau?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Etang de Vioreau, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 100 ratings. Hikers often praise the peaceful natural environment, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse scenery, especially the views of the lake and the surrounding forest.
Are there any longer or more challenging bus-accessible hikes available?
While most routes are moderate or easy, the Provostière Pond – Stele of the Aviators loop from Riaillé is the longest route listed, covering over 12 km and rated as moderate. This offers a more extended exploration of the area for those looking for a longer day out.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the bus-accessible trails?
Yes, the Etang de Vioreau area is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find shaded picnic tables and dedicated picnic areas. During the summer season, there is often a snack bar available near the lake, providing refreshments after your hike.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many outdoor trails in France, especially in natural areas like Etang de Vioreau. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially around wildlife and other hikers. Check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly near protected bird nesting areas or swimming zones.
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