Discover Fresnay-En-Retz through two distinct themes: paths through the freshwater marshland and the history of the Église Notre-Dame and the Théâtre de Fresnay. The Circuit Loyau focuses on getting out into the landscape; the church’s historical details offer a different way to discover the area.

Walking and Cycling in the Marshland

The Circuit Loyau is a 6.9-kilometre walking and hiking trail (Sentier de Promenade et Randonnée). It leads through the freshwater marshland of Fresnay-en-Retz, a landscape characterised by quiet canals, reed beds and rich biodiversity. The route is rated very easy and is suitable for families and all types of visitors. It can be explored on foot or by bike.

The start and finish are at the car park by Fresnay-en-Retz town hall, so the Circuit returns to the same starting point. It is accessible year-round, although walking the route is not recommended in heavy rain. If you plan to explore on foot, bear this in mind when planning your day.

Another cycling route is called “De Nantes à la mer à vélo par les marais”. After the Étang de Machecoul, it passes through Fresnay-en-Retz and Saint-Cyr-en-Retz. This offers another way to experience Fresnay-en-Retz by bike, alongside the Circuit Loyau.

The surrounding area also offers a walking perspective on the landscape. On the Circuit Le Bocage, you can see the Manoir de la Noë Briord; the walk starts at the nearby orientation board in Saint-Cyr-en-Retz. From there, you can enjoy views of the Marais Breton Vendéen, among other sights.

The Church and Local History

The Église Notre-Dame de Fresnay-en-Retz was rebuilt in 1801 after the former church was destroyed by republican troops in 1794. Its furnishings include a black marble high altar dating from 1717. The altarpiece is decorated with Corinthian columns made of black marble. The church also houses statues of Saint Bartholomew and Saint Sebastian.

The church can be visited free of charge outside service and ceremony times. A guided tour is available during the European Heritage Days in September. Check the dates for the year of your trip if you would like to plan your visit around them.

Today’s Théâtre de Fresnay was created from a former school that was converted into a small performance venue. While the church, with its history and furnishings, is a place of sacred culture, the theatre tells a different story of the area through the building’s transformation from school to performance venue.

Planning Your Visits

The Parc et Jardin de Beaumont can be visited year-round by prior appointment. Arrange your visit in advance, as arrangements may change. Planning a garden visit is therefore quite different from planning the Circuit Loyau: an appointment is required for the garden, while on the trail you should pay particular attention to the warning about heavy rain.

Discover more destinations: Mésanger, Fercé, Rouans, Prinquiau, Basse-Goulaine, Ruffigné, Saint-Brevin-Les-Pins, Saint-Vincent-Des-Landes.

View the regional travel guide: Loire-Atlantique.