Oudon offers medieval architecture, crafts and routes through river and valley landscapes. Château d’Oudon, the sculpture trail and the circular route through the Hâvre Valley each offer a different focus. When planning your getaway, you can decide whether to focus on architectural history, art or outdoor activities.
Architectural history and views
The medieval Château d’Oudon is classified as a historic monument. The Duke of Malestroit, Lord of Oudon, had his castle rebuilt from 1392. Its polygonal tower has wide openings overlooking the Loire. The donjon of Oudon is 32.5 metres high; the highlight of the visit is the view from its summit across the Hâvre Valley.
Château de Vieille Cour is a medieval castle ruin built in the second half of the 13th century. Guided tours are offered year-round by appointment for groups of ten or more. Arrange your visit before you arrive.
Art in the village and in the crafts
The monumental sculpture trail passes through shady parks, along the marina and beside the Hâvre River. It currently features around forty works created at the sculpture symposia; the collection may grow with new works. A biennial schedule was planned for the monumental symposium from 1999. Five sculptors from around the world were to create one work each in the castle courtyard, to be exhibited in the town afterwards.
The Maison des Créateurs is open to visitors. Its exhibition area also features works by artists and craftspeople from outside the workshops. Five resident craftspeople currently work and exhibit their creations there; the number may change. The Maison also runs creative workshops focused on crafts. Dates may vary.
Explore the Hâvre Valley and the Loire
The Hâvre Valley winds between woods and meadows and is home to diverse flora and fauna. The circular route through the valley is 6.3 kilometres long, with a stated walking time of one hour and 50 minutes. Trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out.
The Loire at Oudon is considered a river for recreational activities. You can explore the river from Oudon aboard La Luce; trips are seasonal. Check the timetable for your travel dates. A loop of the Loire à Vélo also passes through Oudon, offering another way to experience the Loire by bike.
Other options cater to different interests: Les écuries de la Tour is in the centre of the village, opposite the leisure complex and close to the banks of the Loire. Activities include riding lessons, trail rides, and introductions to vaulting and carriage driving for children and adults. Pony rides are also available, as is the rental of Shetland ponies for fairs and other celebrations.
Market, fishing and getting there
Oudon’s Sunday market offers fruit, vegetables, dairy products, meat, crêpes, bread and prepared foods. Market hours and stall offerings may change. There is a fishing access point at the lake, with parking on Chemin du Rio. Check local fishing rules and water conditions.
Oudon TER station is also worth noting when planning your journey: it has a ticket machine. Station facilities may change, so check them before travelling if needed. This lets you choose cultural, nature and leisure activities according to your own interests, without limiting the options to a single itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Le Pallet, Les Touches, Chéméré, Ligné, Saint-Mars-De-Coutais, Machecoul, Donges, Vue
Return to the main travel overview: Loire-Atlantique.
