The best walks and hikes in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
4.6
(83)
488
hikers
41
hikes
Hiking trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille are characterized by diverse landscapes, including dense wooded areas with oak and pine trees, expansive pastures, and cultivated fields. The region features gentle slopes, with an average altitude of 50 meters, and is influenced by the Erdre river, offering tranquil riverside paths. This blend of forest, open fields, and waterways provides varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
- The most popular hiking route is Stele of the Aviators –…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.0
(12)
47
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.32km
01:24
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
9.13km
02:23
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
4.27km
01:10
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This ancient tree is said to have the ability to cure boils. Why bother going to the doctor when all it takes is a walk in the woods to heal?
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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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The wash house is located on the banks of the Erdre, at the exit of the town of Riaillé towards Ancenis. This beautiful building was abandoned for a long time before being restored in 1990-1991. This stone building would have been built around 1850, it measures 20 meters long and 6 meters wide. Today, the site of the wash house is a pleasant place, equipped for picnics as well as a footbridge spanning the Erdre to lead to the Riante Vallée room. https://www.riaille.fr/decouvre/sites-remarquables-et-sentiers-de-randonnee/sites-remarquables-de-la-commune
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
There are over 35 hiking trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 14 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
Hikers in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille can enjoy a tranquil and varied landscape. You'll find dense wooded areas with majestic oak and slender pine trees, expansive pastures, cultivated fields, and serene paths along the Erdre river. The region features gentle slopes, providing a pleasant and accessible hiking experience.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
Yes, Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille offers several easy routes suitable for families. For example, The Washhouse of Riaillé loop from Riaillé is an easy 5.3 km (3.3 miles) trail that takes about 1 hour 24 minutes to complete, leading through pleasant countryside. Many trails are relatively flat, including former railway lines converted into greenways, which are ideal for walks with children.
Are there any circular walks in the area?
Many of the trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Stele of the Aviators – Provostière Pond loop from La Garenne, a moderate 8.4 km (5.2 miles) route that offers views of the Provostière Pond and incorporates sections of an old railway line.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
The region is rich in natural and historical points of interest. You might encounter the peaceful Mauricette spring along the Erdre river, or discover historical elements like old forges and a forest house on trails such as the Circuit de la Rotte aux Loups. Another unique landmark is the "Chêne aux clous" (Nail Oak), which you can visit on the Nailed Oak loop from Bonnœuvre.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the diverse scenery including open fields and riverside paths, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various abilities.
Is it possible to hike along the Erdre river?
Yes, the Erdre river significantly influences the region's landscape, and many trails offer tranquil walks along its banks. The Circuit de la Fontaine de la Mauricette, for instance, guides visitors along the Erdre river and through the countryside, featuring shaded paths and bocage landscapes.
Are there any trails that follow old railway lines?
Yes, some circuits in the area, such as those near L'Étang de la Provostière, incorporate sections of old railway lines that have been transformed into greenways. These provide flat, shaded routes that are excellent for both walking and cycling.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
The Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille is beautiful year-round, with changing seasonal colors. However, it's important to note that some circuits, particularly those crossing certain natural areas, may be closed during hunting seasons, which typically run from late September to late February. It's advisable to check local information before planning your trip during these months.
Are there any shorter, easy walks available?
Absolutely. For a shorter, easy walk, consider The Washhouse of Riaillé – Le Moulin Pelé loop from Riaillé. This route is just 4.2 km (2.6 miles) and offers a pleasant stroll through the local scenery.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites?
Yes, some trails offer a glimpse into the region's history. The Circuit de la Rotte aux Loups, for example, allows hikers to discover historical elements such as old forges and a forest house amidst the natural beauty of the forest.
Most popular routes in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
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