4.6
(127)
858
hikers
66
hikes
Hiking around Orvault offers access to diverse landscapes characterized by abundant green spaces and natural features. The region is notable for the meandering Cens Valley, which provides a protected environment for exploration. Numerous parks and ponds contribute to a network of accessible trails, making Orvault a destination for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
(26)
79
hikers
15.7km
04:09
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
48
hikers
9.23km
02:28
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(6)
43
hikers
5.01km
01:19
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
51
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Fun, it's irresistible not to do the triple bumps along the Cens
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Small fun segment along the Cens river. Be careful of pedestrians!
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Beautiful 16th century castle surrounded by a magnificent park. Many paths cross the park and the forest, lending themselves perfectly to a two-wheeled adventure.
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This small bridge allows you to cross the Cens and access more trails in the Orvault woods.
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To the north of the town of Orvault, the Château de la Tour is a magnificent 15th century building, set in a veritable green setting. The castle belongs since 1982 to the municipality and its park and open to the public.
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Orvault, located a day's walk from the city center of Nantes, is a pleasant little town nestled on either side of the Cens. With its two towns (north and south), Orvault has all the necessary amenities to make your hike more enjoyable: cafes, restaurants, supermarkets and hotels.
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The Cens is a small river under tributary of the Loire. In its valley populated by generous forests, many paths invite you to idleness. Walkers beware: these trails are also a delight for cyclists.
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Some nice bumps, be careful, it is not suitable for all levels! Typically engaged bike recommended, difficult to overcome obstacles in XC but there are loopholes
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Orvault offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with nearly 70 routes available. These trails cater to various preferences, including over 30 easy walks and a similar number of moderate excursions, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
Hiking in Orvault primarily features diverse green spaces and natural features. The most prominent is the meandering Cens Valley, which offers a protected environment for exploration. You'll also find numerous parks, green spaces, and ponds, providing a mix of woodland paths, riverside strolls, and open parkland. The trails are generally well-maintained, ranging from easy, flat walks to moderate routes with gentle elevation changes.
Yes, Orvault has many family-friendly hiking options. With over 30 easy routes, you can find trails suitable for all ages. For example, the Orvault – Entering the forest loop from Orvault is an easy 5 km trail that takes about an hour and 18 minutes, perfect for a leisurely family outing through green spaces. The Château de la Tour loop from Orvault is another easy option, offering a pleasant walk around the historic castle grounds.
Many of the trails in Orvault are suitable for dogs, especially those that traverse the numerous parks and green spaces. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected natural areas like the Cens Valley, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions. Generally, the natural environment of Orvault is welcoming to well-behaved dogs.
Yes, Orvault features several excellent circular hiking routes. A popular choice is the Wooden bridge over the Cens – Château de la Tour loop from Orvault, a moderate 15.7 km trail that explores the Cens Valley and passes by the historic Château de la Tour. Another great option is the Wooden bridge over the Cens – Cens Valley loop from Orvault, a moderate 9.2 km path offering scenic views of the protected valley environment.
Orvault's hiking trails offer access to several notable natural features and landmarks. The most prominent is the Cens Valley, a protected environment with various walking routes. You can also explore numerous parks like Parc Chézine and Jardins du Bois de l'Avenir, as well as picturesque ponds such as Étang de la Fabrique and Étang du Loret. The historic Château de la Tour is a significant attraction, with its parkland and alleys lined with century-old trees, often integrated into hiking loops.
The hiking routes in Orvault are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's abundant green spaces, the tranquil atmosphere of the Cens Valley, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings. The blend of natural beauty and accessible trails is often highlighted as a key draw.
Yes, Orvault is surrounded by several beautiful lakes and historic castles that you can explore. Notable lakes include Etang de Roche Ballue and Lake Beaulieu. For castles, besides the local Château de la Tour, you can find others like Castle of the Dukes of Brittany and La Desnerie Castle in the wider area, offering additional points of interest for your hiking adventures.
Orvault's abundant green spaces and natural features make it suitable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with blooming flora or colorful foliage. Summer is also enjoyable, especially along the shaded paths of the Cens Valley and within the numerous parks. While winter can be cooler, many trails remain accessible for crisp, refreshing walks.
Yes, Orvault's location allows for connections to broader networks of greenways. For instance, routes like 'From La Chézine to Le Cens via Bongarand' cover significant distances, allowing hikers to cross several fords and explore different natural areas. Longer circular routes, such as 'Cens, Chézine, Erdre and Loire,' offer an extensive discovery of Nantes' streams, much of which takes place in woods and along the water's edge, passing through various well-known parks.
Absolutely, Orvault is very welcoming for beginners with numerous easy trails. The Orvault – Entering the forest loop from Orvault is an excellent choice, being an easy 5 km route that can be completed in just over an hour. Another accessible option is the Château de la Tour loop from Orvault, which is an easy 4.5 km walk, perfect for those new to hiking or looking for a relaxed stroll.


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