Varades offers a range of highlights for a stay: walking trails through wetlands and hilly countryside, a fishing lake on the banks of the Loire, and sites with architectural and local history. Two walking trails can be easily compared by distance. A park combines a permanent orienteering course with opportunities for picnicking and family play.

Walking Trails and Views of the Loire

The Circuit de la Madeleine is 9.1 kilometres long and leads through wetlands and hilly countryside along the Loire in Varades. Along the way, there are views of the river and its islands. If you are choosing a walk by distance, you can compare the route with “La Grande Prée”: this trail is 11 kilometres long and starts at Étang de la Gravelle. This makes “La Grande Prée” 1.9 kilometres longer. The Circuit de la Madeleine can be reached from Nantes by a 30-minute train journey. Check the timetable before travelling, as train services may change.

Fishing Lake and Park in Varades

On the banks of the Loire lies Étang de la Grippe, a fishing lake in Varades. Pike, zander, perch and carp can be found there. If you would like to fish there, check the local access regulations before your visit, as they may change.

The permanent orienteering course starts in Parc de la Mabiterie. The park also offers opportunities for picnicking and family play. Alongside the longer walking trails, you can therefore choose a park destination with a permanent course start and options for an outdoor break.

Church and Architectural History

The Church of Saint-Pierre in Varades dates from the 12th, 18th and 19th centuries. Its architectural history bears witness to changes over these periods. It complements the walking and nature themes with a look at how a local building developed over several centuries.

The Palais Briau is a 19th-century residence inspired by the Italian style. A visit is possible accompanied by the owners; confirm access before your trip. The Palais is set in an 18-hectare park with an orangery, outbuildings and the ruins of the former medieval castle. This destination therefore focuses both on the architecture of the residence and on the park’s various features.

La Meilleraie and the History of the Loire

La Meilleraie is a typical fishing village on the Loire. From a viewpoint, you can see the abbey church of Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. The area’s history also includes former river navigation: La Meilleraie once had two boat-building yards of different sizes, bearing witness to the importance of shipping in the region.

La Meilleraie is also connected with the history of the Vendée general Bonchamps. He died there on 18 October 1793 at the age of 33. The house is located at 61 Rue de la Basse Meilleraie. Together with the view of the abbey church and the former boat-building activity, this offers a distinct historical focus alongside the walking trails and Palais Briau.

Discover more destinations: Grandchamps-Des-Fontaines, La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur, Campbon, Derval, Savenay, Couffé, Nantes, La Cotinière.

For the overview of the wider area: Loire-Atlantique.