On the outskirts of Bouaye, towards Saint-Mars-de-Coutais, lies the Maison du Lac de Grand-Lieu. It offers a three-part visitor experience. The exhibition and the trail to the pavilion provide different ways to discover the landscapes and heritage of Lac de Grand-Lieu.
Maison du Lac: exhibition and trail to the pavilion
The exhibition presents the lake’s landscapes and natural and historical heritage through an interactive multimedia display. Visitors who want to experience the surrounding area on foot can take the trail from the Maison to the pavilion. It is open to the public, either for independent visits or with a guide, and leads visitors through the surrounding landscapes. This means visitors can choose between a multimedia presentation and a walk through the landscape.
Green spaces and activities in Bouaye
The Domaine de la Mévellière covers 52 hectares in the heart of Bouaye. The grounds include a château and outbuildings, three bodies of water, wooded areas and large meadows. The Parc de la Mévellière has footpaths for walking and running. The Swin Golf course is open to everyone; equipment arrangements may change.
The park therefore offers various ways to spend time outdoors, whether on its footpaths or at the Swin Golf course. Nature can also be experienced on a broader scale in the region around Bouaye. This is where Lac de Grand-Lieu is located, France’s largest natural lowland lake in winter.
Lac de Grand-Lieu and its circular route
The GR de Pays du Tour du Lac de Grand Lieu is a 73-kilometre main loop around the lake. The route takes in landscapes associated with the lake and the Marais, as well as cultural heritage. Route conditions may vary by season. It is also helpful to consider the different scales: the Domaine de la Mévellière is in the heart of Bouaye, while the lake and circular route are part of the wider region.
Heritage and seasonal harvests
The Sénaigerie comprises the manor house, dovecote and chapel. These buildings were constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries and have retained their original features, reflecting their status. Bouaye Histoire regularly organises activities relating to the town’s historical or architectural heritage. Alongside its landscapes and trails, visitors can therefore explore local architectural history.
A seasonal option is La Cueillette des Gourmands: from May to October, visitors can pick their own fruit and vegetables, including strawberries, courgettes, tomatoes and green beans. The season may vary from year to year. Exploring Bouaye at different times of year therefore offers both cultural experiences and activities available for a limited season.
Travel by TER
The Nantes–Pornic TER line serves Bouaye station. From there, it is a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute cycle to the Maison du Lac de Grand-Lieu; bicycles can be taken on the TER. Based on the times given, cycling is the quicker of the two options for this leg. Check the timetable and walking time again before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Oudon, Bouguenais, Saint-Gildas-Des-Bois, La Turballe, Les Sorinières, Saint-Léger-Les-Vignes, Saint-Sébastien-Sur-Loire, Basse-Goulaine.
For the broader travel overview: Loire-Atlantique.
