The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
4.6
(83)
488
hikers
22
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille traverse a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, riverbanks, and rural scenery. The region features a mix of forest paths, often along alleys of oak trees, and routes that follow the scenic Erdre River. Terrain is generally gently undulating, with varied landscapes including pastures and cultivated fields, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Stele of the Aviators – Provostière Pond loop from La Garenne, a 5.2 miles (8.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route features gentle elevation changes and passes by the Provostière Pond.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The Washhouse of Riaillé loop from Riaillé, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This route offers a pleasant walk through the local countryside, taking approximately 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the The Washhouse of Riaillé – Le Moulin Pelé loop from Riaillé, a 2.6 miles (4.3 km) trail leading through varied rural landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille is defined by dense woodlands, river paths along the Erdre, and open rural scenery. The network offers options for different ability levels, including 8 easy and 10 moderate routes.
- The routes in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 400 visitors have used komoot to explore Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 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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2
hikers
4.27km
01:10
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
13
hikers
7.88km
02:08
110m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
10.1km
02:36
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Étang des Troches, the green lung of Pannecé, is the ideal place for an outdoor excursion. The body of water closest to the car park is a leisure and walking area. It features a walking trail, a pond open for fishing, large family picnic tables, a children's playground including a table tennis table, a fitness area, restrooms, and a shelter in case of rainy weather. https://www.intramuros.org/pannece/decouvrir/11178
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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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Guinguette open from June to September. Lots of space and very friendly.
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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 family-friendly hiking trails are there in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking trails available in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille, offering a variety of options for all ages and abilities. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for both children and adults, with manageable distances and gentle paths.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
You'll discover a beautiful mix of landscapes. Many trails wind through the tranquil woodlands of the Forêt de Saint-Mars-la-Jaille, featuring alleys of oak trees. You'll also find paths along the picturesque Erdre River, often called 'the most beautiful river in France,' and around serene ponds like L'Étang de la Provostière. Expect varied rural scenery, including pastures and cultivated fields, providing a diverse and engaging experience for the whole family.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the easy-rated route The Washhouse of Riaillé loop from Riaillé is a great option, covering just over 5 km. Another easy choice is The Washhouse of Riaillé – Le Moulin Pelé loop from Riaillé, which is just over 4 km.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest to look out for on these trails?
The region offers several unique points of interest. You might encounter the historic Stèle des Aviateurs, a memorial stone, or the legendary Chêne aux clous (Nail Oak) within the forest, known for its local folklore. Some routes also pass by old forges or sections of the Voie Verte, a former railway line transformed into a path, which features an interesting historical wagon.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Forêt de Saint-Mars-la-Jaille, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near private properties. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area for everyone.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer offers shaded routes, especially along the former railway lines converted into greenways, which are ideal for warmer weather. Note that some specific trails, like the one around L'Étang de la Provostière, are accessible between April 15th and November 1st due to seasonal footbridge removal.
Are there any easy trails suitable for toddlers or very young children?
Yes, there are 8 easy-rated trails in the area that are perfect for younger children and toddlers. These routes typically have gentle terrain and shorter distances. The greenways, which are former railway lines, offer particularly flat and shaded paths, making them very accessible for little legs or strollers.
Where can we park when visiting the hiking trails?
Parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular trails. For routes like the Stele of the Aviators – Provostière Pond loop from La Garenne, you can often find designated parking areas in nearby villages or at specific trailheads. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking recommendations for each trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil natural environment, the diverse landscapes combining forest and riverside paths, and the well-maintained trails that make for a pleasant family outing.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the hiking trails?
While the immediate forest area is primarily natural, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby villages such as Saint-Mars-la-Jaille or Riaillé. These are great spots to refuel before or after your family hike.
What should we wear for a family hike in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Depending on the season, layers are recommended, as forest temperatures can vary. Even on sunny days, a light jacket might be useful. Don't forget hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during warmer months or when hiking near water.
Is public transport available to reach the hiking areas?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads within the Forêt de Saint-Mars-la-Jaille are limited. It's generally easier to access these areas by car. However, local bus services might connect to the main villages in the vicinity, from where you could potentially start your hike or arrange further transport.
Most popular routes in Forêt De Saint-Mars-La-Jaille
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