Nantes / Machecoul

On a cycling holiday route to the island of Noirmoutier, the Nantes–Machecoul section offers a gentle transition from city to countryside. After following the Loire à Vélo and the Vélodyssée routes, and passing through Trentemoult and Bouguenais, the itinerary winds its way through the charming villages of Saint-Léger-les-Vignes, Port-Saint-Père, Saint-Mars-de-Coutais and Saint-Même-le-Tenu. Between the marshes of Lac de Grand-Lieu, hedgerow landscapes, and the forest of Machecoul, this stage is a delightful immersion in nature just a couple of pedal strokes from Nantes.

The route

Starting from Nantes, follow the Loire à Vélo / Vélodyssée signage as far as Bouguenais, via the Nantes port area. In Bouguenais, once you leave the Loire marshes, follow the green markers (route no. 2) towards Villeneuve-en-Retz. The Bouguenais–Bouaye section runs along a cycle path beside the D751: safe, but not especially pleasant—particularly with children. An alternative is to take the train from Nantes or Rezé to Bouaye. From there, the route alternates between quiet country roads, farm tracks, and forest sections. The Machecoul forest can be more challenging in winter due to its unpaved surface. Take care when passing through villages.

Don’t miss

• Nantes – Follow the artistic trail of the Green Line and explore a wealth of must-see sites, including Les Machines de l’Île and the Château des Ducs de Bretagne with its outstanding museum.

• Rezé – Discover the colourful village of Trentemoult, as well as artworks from the Estuaire trail such as Le Pendule by Roman Signer and, nearby at Port Lavigne, The Settlers by Sarah Sze.

• Bouaye – Enjoy the large park of La Mévellière and visit the Maison du Lac de Grand-Lieu to learn all about this unique natural site.

• Saint-Léger-les-Vignes – Stroll through the Parc des Rives and visit the Hautes Noëlles wine estate.

• Port-Saint-Père – Stop by the Morinière harbour on the banks of the Acheneau (watersports base), and take in views of the Château de Grandville from the small bridge.

• Saint-Mars-de-Coutais – Admire views over the Tenu river and the château from the bridge.

• From Saint-Mars-de-Coutais to Saint-Lumine – Take in sweeping views over the marshes of Lac de Grand-Lieu and enjoy birdwatching in one of France’s प्रमुख bird reserves (the second largest in the country).