A viaduct on the single-track Nantes–Châteaubriant railway line, an educational garden with eight sections and a forest of large oak trees reveal different sides of La Chapelle Sur Erdre. There are also paths along the Erdre and seasonal activities on the water. If you are planning a stay, you can tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether in nature, architecture or visiting times.

Heritage between the château and the railway

The Château de la Gascherie is a significant manor house dating from the late 15th century; part of it is listed as a historic monument. The Château de la Gascherie is located in La Chapelle Sur Erdre, making it a particular point of interest for anyone curious about the town’s history.

Another example of the area’s architectural history is the Viaduc de l’Hocmard. It is a structure on the single-track Nantes–Châteaubriant railway line. The line opened on 23 December 1877. The château and viaduct represent different themes: one is a manor house dating from the late 15th century, while the other is a structure associated with a railway line. They can therefore be appreciated as distinct aspects of the local heritage.

Landscape, paths and nature

The Vallée de l’Erdre in La Chapelle Sur Erdre includes areas protected under the Natura 2000 network, as well as designated and registered landscape protection areas. Those interested in landscape and nature can also explore the Circuit entre Erdre et Gesvres: the route runs along the Erdre and passes the Viaduc de la Verrière. Along the way, you can discover the Gesvres’ flora and fauna. This brings nature watching and a structure along the route together in one outing, without describing the route itself as running along both waterways.

With its large oak trees and stream, the Bois de la Desnerie is a suitable setting for a family outing. The private Château de La Desnerie can be viewed through the forest, but cannot be visited. The forest is therefore a good choice if you want to spend time in the countryside and catch a glimpse of the château, without planning a visit to the private property.

Garden visits and trips on the Erdre

The Jardin des Hespérides is an educational garden with eight sections showcasing different types of trees and fruit. The garden is open for free visits from May to September. Alternatively, a guided tour is available with the Maison Pour Tous. If you plan to visit the garden or are interested in a guided tour, check the visiting arrangements before your trip.

During the warmer months, the ANCRE nautical association of La Chapelle Sur Erdre offers trips aboard the Goélette Mercator on Tuesdays, departing from the Port de la Grimaudière. The aim is to discover the Erdre. This seasonal trip offers a different experience from exploring on foot: you can enjoy the river landscape from the boat. As the trips are only described as running during the warmer months, it is advisable to check availability before you arrive.

Community baking in Cahéraux

The bread oven in Cahéraux is also part of the local offering: it is still in use, and visitors can bring pizza or bread to bake on sociable Saturdays. This combines a visit with a communal activity that differs in character from the garden, forest and heritage. Confirm the specific date in advance if you plan to take part on a Saturday.

There are several ways to plan your activities: explore architectural history at the Château de la Gascherie and the Viaduc de l’Hocmard, enjoy nature along the Erdre or in the Bois de la Desnerie, or choose seasonal visits and activities. The options have different requirements and time frames, so plan according to which ones suit your stay.

Discover more destinations: La Rouxière, Rougé, Le Croisic, Ruffigné, Pornic, Le Pouliguen, Saint-Aubin-Des-Châteaux, Issé

Return to the main travel overview: Loire-Atlantique.