The best traffic-free bike rides around Frossay

The Lac de la Vallée Mabille, or Lac de Savenay, is a beautiful artificial reservoir that is worth a small detour. By bike, you can easily cycle around the southern part (south of the road) via a wide and well-maintained wooded path. On the other hand, the northern part, wilder and quite rugged, is more suited for hiking than cycling. Crossing at the level of the dam is possible thanks to a footbridge.

Developed in the 18th century by the monks of the nearby abbey, the Canal de Buzay once connected the Acheneau to the Loire to drain and reclaim the surrounding marshes. Lined with a peaceful and shaded towpath, this straight waterway crosses the wild landscapes of the Pays de Retz, offering an ideal haven for cycle touring and wildlife observation. Today disconnected from the Loire at its lock, it remains a picturesque link in the local hydraulic heritage.

The triple lock of Les champs neufs, located in Frossay on the Canal de la Martinière, is a masterpiece of 19th-century river engineering: * A cascade crossing: Unlike a simple lock, this structure comprises three consecutive chambers that allowed ships to compensate for the difference in level and effectively regulate water flow between the Loire estuary and the canal. * The steam machinery: Right next to the chambers stands the stone building of the La Machinerie du canal, which once housed imposing steam pumps responsible for maintaining the canal's water level constant for commercial navigation. * Heritage and promenade: With its lock gates, metal bridge, and preserved period mechanisms, it is one of the most spectacular and instructive stopping points on the route along the banks.

A remarkable engineering work inaugurated at the end of the 19th century to maintain maritime navigation towards Nantes, the Canal de la Martinière stretches its 15 kilometers parallel to the Loire estuary. Lined with period machinery, imposing locks, and natural bird reserves, it is today a prime spot for walking, fishing, and cycling on the Voie Verte. The site also hosts the contemporary artwork Misconceivable (the "soft boat") from the Estuaire trail.

Small, well-maintained chapel, built in homage to Saint Vitalis, an Irish Christian hermit from the 7th century, who made a spring gush forth here with his staff.

This superb bird's-eye view offers an exceptional panorama of **l’Erdre**, captured from one of the bridges that span it (like the Pont de la Jonelière or the Viaduc de la Beaujoire). **A royal river with a lake-like appearance:** The Erdre stretches majestically, wide and peaceful, bordered by dense green wooded banks where large properties and preserved natural areas can be glimpsed. **The call of the great outdoors:** In the distance, the white silhouettes of a few sailboats and light craft dot the blue water, testifying to the nautical activity for which this river is renowned. * **The urban and nature contrast:** In the foreground, the modern, metallic lines of the bridge's railing recall the proximity of the city, creating a perfect graphic transition with the wild softness of the landscape in the background under a sky adorned with beautiful cumulus clouds. A beautiful invitation to contemplation or a stroll along the banks!

Nicknamed the «pearl of the Erdre», the port of Sucé-sur-Erdre is an unmissable charming stopover where lively terraces and pleasure boats coexist in a green and peaceful setting. It is the ideal starting point for strolling along the quays or taking a trip on the water, to discover one of the most beautiful rivers in France.

Old mill dating from the 16th century. Located on private property, but relatively visible from the road. Whether you climb up from Angellerais by road or via the GR3 trail, it will require a good effort.