4.5
(12)
271
hikers
2
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Etang De La Rincerie traverse a diverse landscape centered around a 50-hectare lake. The western part of the lake is a protected ornithological reserve, offering opportunities to observe local fauna and flora. The area features a mix of forests, prairies, and green spaces, including hidden ponds within the woodlands. An extensive network of trails connects these natural features, providing varied terrain for hikers.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
2
hikers
13.0km
03:24
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
9.57km
02:27
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
10.5km
02:42
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.25km
01:52
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.12km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Along the Oudon to Craon is a picturesque and relaxing hiking trail which follows the course of the Oudon. You can admire the historic Craon castle, the old bridge and the gardens all along the route.
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The Saint-Nicolas church in Craon is a neo-Gothic church which was built in the 19th century on the site of an old collegiate church founded in the 11th century by the barons of Craon. The church has a remarkable facade with three portals, a rose window and two towers, as well as an interior rich in stained glass windows, sculptures and paintings. From the church square, you can admire the view of the Oudon and the surrounding countryside.
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Craon is an old fortified town full of architectural jewels, half-timbered houses and historical monuments. A walk is essential!
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The Voie Verte Laval-Renazé follows an old railway line for 47 km, from Laval to Renazé, passing through forests, fields and villages. You can admire the viaduct, the base of the coupeau, the Robert Tatin museum, the Craon castle and the Slate museum all along the route. The trail is suitable for walkers, cyclists and equestrians, and has a smooth surface of compacted sand.
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The Mûrier water schedule is a beautiful lake surrounded by greenery and wildlife. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, which is about 2 km long, or explore the nearby trails that lead to the forest and the river. The lake also has a supervised swimming area, a solarium and a children's play area.
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The Rincerie Pond Observatory is a natural site with a lake, parks and woods. There you can admire the view of the water and the wildlife, particularly the birds that inhabit this reserve.
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At the Etang de la Rincerie, you can enjoy the view of the water, the forest and the wildlife, particularly the birds that inhabit the western part of the lake, which is a protected ornithological reserve. You can also take advantage of the facilities and activities offered by the La Rincerie Leisure Center, such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc.
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Craon is an old fortified town full of architectural jewels, half-timbered houses and historical monuments. A walk is essential!
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There are several well-documented hiking routes around Etang De La Rincerie that are conveniently accessible from local bus stations. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region without needing a car.
Yes, for an easier option, consider the Laval-Renazé Greenway loop from Craon. This route is approximately 7.2 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll with family or if you're new to hiking. The area around Etang De La Rincerie also features a 4 km accessible path around the lake itself, perfect for gentle walks.
Hikers can expect a rich variety of scenery. Routes often feature expansive lake views, diverse forested areas with oaks, beeches, and pines, as well as open prairies. The western part of the lake is a protected ornithological reserve, offering opportunities to observe migratory birds and local wildlife.
Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed as loops, bringing you back to your starting point. For example, the Pond observatory – La Rincerie Pond loop from Ballots is a circular route that allows you to experience the lake and its surroundings without retracing your steps.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Etang De La Rincerie, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil natural beauty, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially around the lake and its protected areas.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the trails around Etang De La Rincerie, especially on leash. However, specific rules may apply in protected areas like the ornithological reserve. Always ensure your dog is under control and check local signage for any restrictions, particularly during nesting seasons.
Yes, the region offers several points of interest. The Pond observatory – La Rincerie Pond loop from Ballots specifically highlights an observatory for birdwatching. Additionally, the area around Craon, accessible via bus, features historical elements like the old town, as seen on the Craon, the old town – Saint-Nicolas loop from Craon.
Spring and autumn are often considered ideal for hiking around Etang De La Rincerie. In spring, you'll witness vibrant flora and active wildlife, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is also pleasant, especially with the option of swimming in the supervised bathing area of the lake, but trails can be busier. Winter hikes can be serene, but always check weather conditions.
For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Pond observatory – La Rincerie Pond loop from Ballots (approx. 13 km) or the Craon, the old town – Saint-Nicolas loop from Craon (approx. 12.5 km) offer longer distances and varied terrain. While not alpine, they provide a good workout and extended exploration of the region's natural and historical features.
The Etang De La Rincerie leisure base, which is the focal point for many trails, offers various amenities. These include picnic areas (some covered with barbecues), playgrounds for children, and a campsite. In summer, there's a supervised sandy beach for swimming. You'll find basic facilities to make your hiking trip comfortable.
Yes, the Etang De La Rincerie area is connected to a wider network. A 'Liaison Rincerie-Interligne' path links to the larger 'Voie Verte Interligne' network of hiking trails in the Craon region. This allows for extended excursions beyond the immediate vicinity of the lake, offering even more options for exploration.

