Fresnay-en-Retz walks

Until the 10th century, the sea bordered the village of Fresnay, then gradually receded, leaving behind a marsh that you can explore on this walk.

Passing through charming villages and pretty little hamlets, you will also walk alongside the Grand Étang, which has been developed for leisure and fishing, as well as market gardens where lamb's lettuce is grown in such large quantities that Machecoul-Saint-Même is one of the leading producers in Europe. Gadwall ducks, mallards and swans await you on this hike, which will take you to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Machecoul-Saint-Même.

This hike allows you to discover the Machecoul forest with its characteristic flora and rich forest birdlife, not to mention numerous rare or endangered insects.

A seaside walk starting from the small Port du Collet, formed by the estuary of a coastal river between the Loire Atlantique and the Vendée It first follows a small winding road through the Marais Breton marshes, where you can observe numerous wild birds, including swans, geese, ducks, egrets and other marsh wildlife. It then runs along the coast, between the dunes and the beach, with magnificent views of the island of Noirmoutier, Bourgneuf Bay and its fishing grounds.

A short walk in the heart of the marsh. Depending on the season, you may see storks, shelducks, ibises and all kinds of wading birds. The walk starts on the cycle path towards Bouin, and after the hamlet of Mon Désir, the return journey is via the stork trail.

This hike starts at Port Hamoneau in Brains on the banks of the Acheneau, then crosses the Marais du Cheval and the Marais de la Guerche.

A stone's throw from the centre of Pornic, the Haute Perche Canal is a haven of peace for walkers. Between rolling landscapes and bocage scenery, discover the history and natural riches of this waterway from one bank to the other.

Circular on the steps of Jean Nesmy in Sallertaine and the surrounding area. This walk takes you to the Moulin de Rairé mill.

A short walk to explore Pornic from the golf club.

Two types of landscape for this hike:Jagged rocks and coves from Pornic to Pointe Saint Gildas,Flat rocks with water holes, then the sandy beach from Saint Gildas to Tharon.The journey from Tharon beach to Pornic is by bus. For experienced walkers, the hike can be completed in one day. It can also be split into two days, with an overnight stay at the hotel at Pointe Saint Gildas.

Circuit along the beaches and villas of Pornic, ending at the castle. Return via the Tumulus des Mousseux, then along the golf course. After passing through the town centre, a long grassy path takes us back to the Porteau Beach road.

This hike covers part of the Marais Audubon, a wetland that is part of the estuarine marshes. This area is a sanctuary for many species of birds, including storks, herons, egrets, ducks, harriers... An area of extensive cattle farming, it is also home to other less desirable species, such as nutria. This circular route of about 10km runs almost exclusively along roads – some of which are flood-prone – but with very little traffic.

Starting at the town hall square in Couëron, this circuit quickly leaves the village to reach Lake Beaulieu, offering some beautiful views of the town. After circling the lake and perhaps observing a few birds, it ends along the Loire, which you reach via footpaths. Here you will find Jean-Luc Courcoult's "La maison dans la Loire" (The House in the Loire) and the "Tour à Plomb" (Plumb Tower). Suitable for all seasons, this route is particularly pleasant in the low winter light.

A beautiful walk around a large part of the Polder de Sébastopol nature reserve. This route also takes you past the Étang Vide and the exit of the Gois passage on the Île de Noirmoutier side.

This circuit follows the Ognon, which feeds into the Lac de Grand Lieu, located a few kilometres to the west. You can find more information on the Pont Saint-Martin hiking website.

Discover unspoilt nature south of the Nantes conurbation. A circuit that winds along a stream and the Loire, through marshes and over the heights of the Roche Ballue quarry. You will discover Nantes and its conurbation. You will pass through picturesque little villages in unspoilt countryside.

This hike through land, forest and sea starts at the Chapel of Tharon-Plage and takes you to Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef via an inland route, then on to the Forest of Pierre Attelée and finally to Les Rochelets in the commune of Saint-Brévin. The return to the starting point is through the shade of the forest and then along the coast with its fisheries, surfers and the Port de Comberge.

Walk along Gohaud Beach, known for its fishing and surfing. Then enter the Pierre Attelée forest, where you will appreciate the shade on hot days.

A very easy ride to explore the dune forest and Vendée marshes by mountain bike or hybrid bike.

A lovely little walk by the sea and through the Vendée tidal creeks. Beautiful scenery for a family outing.

A lovely little route along the Cens and through the countryside around Sautron.

A pleasant walk starting from Place Bougainville in St-Brévin-les-Pins, first following the beach southwards, then turning north through the village centre to explore the countryside before returning along the Loire.