At the Étang de Beaumont, birdwatching and open landscapes take centre stage; mills and the former dairy industry also give Issé a history of its own. These distinctions can help you decide whether you would like to explore the area mainly for its waterside nature, marked walking trails or its industrial and economic past.

Birds and nature at the Étang de Beaumont

The Étang de Beaumont is considered a good place for birdwatching. Birds value the tranquillity of its island, while the very open landscape provides suitable conditions for numerous overwintering or migrating species. Overwintering and migrating species offer different birdwatching experiences: staying through the winter and passing through on migration. This distinction makes the seasonal appeal of the Étang clear to nature enthusiasts.

There is also a small pontoon at the Étang, with access for people with reduced mobility. If access is important to your plans, check the condition of the pontoon in person before your visit.

Walking trails with different starting points

The two walking trails have different starting points. The Sentier des Prairies begins at the car park of the sports complex opposite the Salle du Bosquet; the Sentier des six clochers starts at the car park by the playground at the Étang de Beaumont. This means each trail starts at a clearly identified location: either the sports complex or the pond and playground. A municipal and intermunicipal walking map published in 2017 lists these starting points; check access and signs on site before setting off.

Walking trails in Issé are marked in yellow on site, unless otherwise indicated. Paper copies of the walking guides are available for hikers at the Châteaubriant Intercommunal Tourist Office. If you plan to rely on a printed guide, confirm that it is available before travelling and follow the trail signs when you set off.

Mills and former butter production

The Moulin de Beaumont represents a technical aspect of the area's history. Originally a windmill, it was fitted with a steam engine in 1863. The house and part of the former boiler house remain on the site. The mill's development is thus linked to building remains that tell the story of its former use.

The former dairy in Issé is also part of the area's economic history. It exported hundreds of kilograms of butter to Paris, the departments of northern France and England. These destinations show how far the butter trade of the time reached. By contrast, the mill's technical equipment is the focus when it comes to the Moulin: together, these stories shed light on different aspects of Issé's former production.

Discover more destinations: Nozay, Le Pouliguen, Paimbœuf, Legé, Erbray, Les Touches, Mouzeil, Ancenis

For the broader travel overview: Loire-Atlantique.