Forêt de Valles Loop

Komoot rates this 23.4 km loop as difficult, primarily due to its length and the approximately 160 meters of elevation gain. While some shorter variants are considered moderate, this specific route requires good physical condition to complete comfortably.

The route offers varied terrain. You'll walk on dedicated hiking trails, forested paths through the Forêt de Valles, and sections of greenway (converted railway lines) which are generally flat and accessible. There are also portions that follow roads and streets.

This route combines natural beauty with historical sites. Key highlights include the View of the Château de la Haute Roche, the beautiful Saint-Ouen Castle, Chemazé, and the Château-Gontier Castle. You'll also experience the tranquil Forêt de Valles and sections of the Voie Verte.

If you're starting from Château-Gontier, you can find parking within the town. For those considering starting from Chemazé, there are parking spaces available near the town hall, which is a convenient option.

Yes, the Forêt de Valles et château de Saint-Ouen loop is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through villages, near livestock, or on busier sections of the trail.

Spring and autumn are often ideal for this hike, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery as the foliage changes or blooms. Summer can also be enjoyable, particularly the shaded sections within the Forêt de Valles, but be prepared for warmer weather.

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay an entrance fee to hike this trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

This 23.4 km loop is estimated to take approximately 6 hours and 6 minutes to complete, assuming a steady hiking pace. Your actual duration may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the sights.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that are part of the Itinéraire Segré Chateau-Gontier, the Voie verte de Châteaubriant à Château-Gontier, and the Chemin de halage de la Mayenne. It also shares parts with La Vélo Francette, Château-Gontier / Le Lion-d'Angers.

While the Komoot route is rated difficult, portions of the trail, particularly the greenway sections, are relatively flat and accessible. If you're looking for a less challenging experience, you could explore shorter segments of the greenway or focus on the paths within the Forêt de Valles, potentially starting from Chemazé, where some variants are rated as medium difficulty.

You can expect a diverse range of scenery, from the tranquil forested paths of the Forêt de Valles to the open countryside around Chemazé. The route also passes through or near small villages, offering glimpses of local architecture, and includes sections along converted railway lines (Voie Verte).