Loire Estuary: Where River Meets Ocean
Explore the Loire Estuary: a blend of nature, industry, and art where France's longest river meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The Loire Estuary, a dynamic zone where France's longest river mingles with the Atlantic, is a captivating blend of natural beauty, industrial heritage, and contemporary art. Stretching 60 km from Nantes to the sea, it offers diverse landscapes and surprising discoveries.
A brief summary to Loire estuary
- Corsept, FR
Local tips
- Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the estuary's unique perspective and spot diverse wildlife.
- Explore the contemporary art installations along the Estuary Trail by bike or car.
- Visit the Terre d'Estuaire Centre in Cordemais for an interactive exploration of the estuary's secrets.
- Enjoy local seafood at one of the charming restaurants in the waterside villages.
- Check the schedule for the free ferry crossings to explore both banks of the Loire.
Getting There
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Car
From Nantes, follow the D751 west towards the estuary. The route is well-marked with signs for 'Estuaire'. Allow ample time to stop at various points of interest along the way. Parking is available at most art installations and viewpoints. Note that some roads along the estuary may be narrow and winding.
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Public Transport
From Nantes, take the TER Interloire train line towards Le Croisic or Saint-Nazaire. Several stations along the estuary, such as Cordemais and Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, provide access to different attractions. Check local bus schedules (réseau Lila) for connections from the train stations to specific sites. A single TER ticket from Nantes to Cordemais costs approximately €6-10.
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Bike
Follow the Vélodyssée and Loire à Vélo paths from Nantes along the estuary. These well-maintained cycling routes offer stunning views and access to many of the estuary's attractions. Bike rentals are available in Nantes. Consider using the free ferry crossings at Basse-Indre/Indret and Couëron/Le Pellerin to explore both banks of the river. Ferry crossings are free for cyclists and pedestrians.
Discover more about Loire estuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sous-marin Espadon
5.8 km
Explore the iconic Sous-marin Espadon in Saint-Nazaire, a fascinating submarine museum showcasing naval history and maritime innovation.
Océanile Parc Aquatique
34.4 km
Experience the thrill of water slides and the relaxation of pools at Océanile Parc Aquatique, a family-friendly water park in L'Épine, France.
Église Sainte-Thérèse-de-l’Enfant-Jésus
41.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Église Sainte-Thérèse-de-l’Enfant-Jésus in Nantes, a tranquil retreat for reflection and appreciation.
Notre-Dame de Bon-Port
42.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Notre-Dame de Bon-Port, a must-visit Catholic church in Nantes, France, along the banks of the Loire River.
Statue General Cambronne
43.2 km
Discover the historic Statue of General Cambronne in Nantes, a tribute to French military heritage surrounded by beautiful gardens.
La Danse de correia
43.3 km
Discover La Danse de Correia, a stunning sculpture in Nantes that embodies motion and artistic expression amidst the city's vibrant culture.
Balcon déco rue Scribe
43.3 km
Discover the historical elegance of Balcon déco rue Scribe, a landmark in Nantes that showcases the city's rich architectural heritage and vibrant culture.
Graslin Fountain
43.3 km
Discover the enchanting Graslin Fountain, a tranquil oasis in Nantes, surrounded by rich history and stunning architecture.
Église Saint-Similien
43.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene spirituality of Église Saint-Similien in Nantes, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Talensac Market
43.4 km
Explore Talensac Market in Nantes, a vibrant fresh food market brimming with local produce, artisanal goods, and a rich cultural experience.
Tour Bretagne
43.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Nantes from Tour Bretagne, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the city's rich culture and vibrant skyline.
La Maison Radieuse Le Corbusier
43.5 km
Explore La Maison Radieuse, a masterpiece by Le Corbusier, showcasing modernist architecture and urban living concepts in Rezé, France.
Passage Pommeraye
43.5 km
Experience the exquisite charm of Passage Pommeraye, a historic shopping arcade in Nantes, blending stunning architecture with unique boutiques.
Parking Talensac
43.5 km
Experience convenience and accessibility at Parking Talensac, your gateway to exploring the vibrant city of Nantes with ease.
Pl. Royale
43.6 km
Discover the enchanting Place Royale in Nantes, a historic square filled with stunning architecture, vibrant cafes, and rich cultural experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
L'embouchure de la Loire
8.2 km
Where France's longest river embraces the Atlantic: a blend of natural beauty, industrial heritage, and captivating views in Saint-Nazaire.
Martinière canal
20.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Martinière Canal, a picturesque waterway in France perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.
Espace Quilly
25.2 km
Discover excitement and adventure at Espace Quilly, an amusement center offering water sports, ATV rentals, and family-friendly fun in Quilly, France.
The wild coast
26.6 km
Discover dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking Atlantic views along the rugged Wild Coast of Batz-sur-Mer. A haven for nature lovers.
Plage du Vieil
30.9 km
Discover Plage du Vieil, a charming Noirmoutier beach blending sandy shores, fishing tradition, and coastal beauty in a picturesque village setting.
L'Estacade du bois de la chaise
31.8 km
A historic wooden pier in Noirmoutier's enchanting Bois de la Chaise, offering scenic ocean views and a glimpse into the island's past.
Bois de la Chaise
32.0 km
Discover Noirmoutier's enchanting Bois de la Chaise: a blend of lush forests, scenic beaches, and historic charm on the Atlantic coast.
La Maison dans la Loire
32.2 km
Discover the enchanting La Maison dans la Loire, a unique art installation in Couëron that blends imagination and realism on the Loire River.
Planète Sauvage
33.1 km
Experience a wild safari adventure in France! Discover 1,000 animals from around the globe at Planète Sauvage near Nantes.
Noirmoutier Castle
33.4 km
Explore a medieval castle with a rich history, housing a museum with panoramic island views in Noirmoutier-en-l'Île.
L'île aux Papillons
36.5 km
Explore a tropical paradise in France's largest butterfly greenhouse, where hundreds of exotic butterflies flutter freely among lush flora.
Plage du midi
38.7 km
Discover Plage du Midi in Barbâtre: a family-friendly beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming and water sports on Noirmoutier Island.
Ruines restantes du Château des Dervallières
40.6 km
Uncover the rich history and serene beauty of the Ruines restantes du Château des Dervallières in Nantes—an unforgettable tourist attraction.
Parc de la Gaudinière
41.5 km
Explore the enchanting Parc de la Gaudinière in Nantes, a beautiful park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks amidst lush greenery.
Castle Gaudinière
41.5 km
Explore the historical charm and scenic beauty of Castle Gaudinière in Nantes, a must-visit destination for culture and history enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Hôtel Restaurant Anne de Bretagne | Mathieu Guibert
16.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Haute French cuisine at Hôtel Restaurant Anne de Bretagne in La Plaine-sur-Mer.
Les Terrasses de la Gournerie, restaurant Château près de Nantes
37.1 km
Discover exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Les Terrasses de la Gournerie with stunning views in Saint-Herblain.
Le Relais du Gois
41.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Le Relais du Gois in Beauvoir-sur-Mer - where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Restaurant Chantenay Nantes - A Boire et à Manger
41.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Chantenay in Nantes - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Restaurant L'Atlantide 1874 - Maison Guého
42.4 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning river views at Restaurant L'Atlantide 1874 in Nantes.
Le Transition
42.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Transition, Nantes' premier gastropub offering innovative dishes and an inviting atmosphere.
Roza
43.0 km
Experience the best of French cuisine at Roza in Nantes - where culinary tradition meets modern elegance.
Restaurant Latitude 47 - Damgan - Morbihan - Bretagne
43.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Latitude 47 in Damgan - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Restaurant Dans le Noir ? Nantes
43.1 km
Experience culinary adventure like never before at Dans le Noir ? Nantes – where dining in darkness heightens your senses and transforms your meal into an unforgettable journey.
Imagine - Restaurant - Nantes
43.1 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Imagine Restaurant in Nantes – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.
Chez Franklin
43.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Franklin in Nantes – where every dish tells a story.
Le Petit Boucot
43.2 km
Savor exquisite modern French cuisine at Le Petit Boucot in Nantes – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Gwaien Restaurant Nantes
43.3 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Gwaien Restaurant in Nantes - where tradition meets innovation for an unforgettable dining experience.
La Cigale
43.3 km
Experience the elegance and culinary excellence of La Cigale in Nantes - where traditional French cuisine meets stunning Belle Époque architecture.
Maria Restaurant
43.3 km
Discover exceptional grill specialties and vibrant bar vibes at Maria Restaurant in Nantes – perfect for food lovers seeking local flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Breizh Boutik / la boutique de bretagne.fr
6.7 km
Explore Breizh Boutik in Saint-Nazaire for authentic Breton gift baskets that capture the essence of Brittany, perfect for every traveler.
L.A LOIRE ATLANTIQUE ®
20.1 km
Explore L.A LOIRE ATLANTIQUE, the ultimate fashion destination in La Baule-Escoublac for stylish clothing, unique accessories, and thoughtful gifts.
Stores de France
26.3 km
Explore stylish window treatments at Stores de France, where quality meets elegance in every fabric and design choice.
La Station
33.9 km
Experience the essence of beach culture at La Station, Pénestin's premier destination for beachwear, fishing gear, and unique gifts.
Centre Commercial Atlantis
37.9 km
Explore the Centre Commercial Atlantis in Saint-Herblain, a premier shopping destination featuring diverse shops and delicious dining options.
Cave Millésime
42.7 km
Explore the finest selection of wines at Cave Millésime, a charming wine store in Nantes offering tastings and expert guidance.
SINGULIER STORE
43.2 km
Discover unique home goods and local craftsmanship at Singulier Store in Nantes, where creativity meets style in every curated piece.
Kapsule Ephémère
43.2 km
Discover unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Kapsule Ephémère, a charming shop in the heart of Nantes.
Charlie A Nantes
43.2 km
Explore Charlie A Nantes, a chic clothing store offering unique men's and women's fashion in the heart of Nantes, France.
Boutique - Librairie des Machines de l'île
43.3 km
Explore the Boutique - Librairie des Machines de l'île in Nantes for unique books and gifts celebrating the Machines of the Isle's creative spirit.
Les Petits Princes
43.3 km
Explore the enchanting Les Petits Princes gift shop in Nantes for unique home goods, furniture, and a taste of French creativity.
Coquerico
43.4 km
Discover unique French fashion accessories at Coquerico, a stylish boutique in Nantes offering elegance and charm for every traveler.
Cigoire - Boutique de cadeaux Nantes
43.4 km
Explore the enchanting Cigoire Boutique de cadeaux in Nantes for unique gifts, fashion, and local treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Les (Petits) Raffineurs
43.4 km
Explore Les (Petits) Raffineurs in Nantes for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody local craftsmanship and creativity.
Carol et fils
43.4 km
Explore the finest gourmet grocery store in Nantes, where local delicacies and artisanal products await at Carol et fils.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L’indigo Bar Rooftop
20.1 km
Discover L’indigo Bar Rooftop, a stylish lounge in Pornic offering stunning views, crafted cocktails, and a relaxing ambiance for every traveler.
Le Dock Yard
42.7 km
Experience authentic Irish culture at Le Dock Yard, a vibrant pub in Nantes with live music, delicious drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Drink Club
43.1 km
Discover the vibrant blend of African cuisine and innovative cocktails at Drink Club, Nantes' premier bar and restaurant experience.
19:33 cocktail experience
43.2 km
Experience the essence of cocktail culture at 19:33 in Nantes, where mixology meets creativity in a chic and inviting atmosphere.
Le graslin de folie
43.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Le Graslin de Folie, a tapas bar and beer hall in Nantes, perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Peter Mc Cool Graslin - Irish Pub
43.2 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at Peter Mc Cool Graslin, an inviting pub in Nantes offering hearty meals, lively sports, and great company.
Café Au Bon Coin
43.3 km
Discover the cozy charm of Café Au Bon Coin in Nantes, where delicious bistro cuisine meets artisanal coffee in a welcoming atmosphere.
Chez les Garçons
43.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails at Chez les Garçons, the perfect bar experience in the heart of Nantes.
L'Univers Speakeasy
43.3 km
L'Univers Speakeasy: Where exquisite cocktails meet vibrant jazz in the heart of Nantes.
Strogoff Bar
43.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nantes at Strogoff Bar, a cocktail haven offering innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
GUEST Bar & Food
43.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at GUEST Bar & Food, Nantes' premier cocktail and wine bar, where great taste meets a lively atmosphere.
Le BLOCK graslin
43.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nantes at Le BLOCK Graslin, where exquisite cocktails meet electrifying live music for an unforgettable evening.
Pioche - bar de jeux coopératifs
43.4 km
Experience the unique blend of fun and community at Pioche, Nantes' premier cooperative gaming bar with a vibrant atmosphere and extensive game selection.
Mariole
43.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Mariole, one of Nantes' top cocktail bars for nightlife enthusiasts.
Gigg’s Irish Pub Graslin
43.4 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in Nantes at Gigg's Irish Pub Graslin, where great food, drinks, and music come together.
