Discover the Best Day Trips from Nantes
If you’re looking to explore beyond the vibrant city of Nantes, you’re in luck. With its conveniently located railway station, you can easily reach charming riverside villages, medieval towns, prehistoric art sites, and enchanting islands in under two hours. And the best part? You don’t even need a car!
For those who prefer a more independent adventure, the vineyards surrounding quirky Nantes are perfect for a self-guided tour. Whether you choose to explore by car or bicycle, there is plenty of detailed information available on how to make the most of your visit.
1. Noirmoutier
Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Noirmoutier offers something for everyone with its stunning beaches, cycling trails, hiking paths, and Europe’s longest submersible road, the Passage du Gois. Explore the historic center of Noirmoutier-en-l’île, rent a bike or take a stroll along Jacobsen Jetty to witness the island’s working salt pans. Don’t miss the expansive nature reserve, Polder de Sebastopol, and the opportunity to taste the rare Bonnotte potato, a culinary delicacy.
How to get to Noirmoutier from Nantes: Take the “Ligne 13” bus directly to Noirmoutier Gare Routière from the ALEOP bus station behind Gare de Nantes Sud. Driving is also an option, but be sure to check tidal information on the Île de Noirmoutier website before crossing the Passage du Gois.
2. Pornic
Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Start your day in Pornic with a warm baguette and a seaside stroll along the rocky Jade Coast. Explore the historic wooden fishing huts, relax on the shell-studded beaches, and visit the owner-occupied fairytale Château de Pornic. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the marina, arrange a visit to the medieval castle, and don’t forget to try the fresh fruit sorbet at La Fraiseraie. For history enthusiasts, the 5500-year-old megalithic tumulus of Les Mousseaux is a must-see.
How to get to Pornic from Nantes: Trains to Pornic depart from Gare de Nantes.
3. Le Croisic
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Le Croisic is a stylish destination near the Guérande peninsula, known for its picturesque scenery. Take a train ride and enjoy the view of salt pans and wild marshes along the way. Explore the charming port town with its small shops, indulge in fresh-caught fish or regional crêpes for lunch, and take a leisurely walk along the sandy beach or the stone jetty. Don’t miss the Tréhic lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.
How to get to Le Croisic from Nantes: Direct trains to Le Croisic depart from Gare de Nantes. It’s a short walk into town.
4. The Loire River Estuary
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes round trip to a full-day excursion depending on choices
Embark on a cruise down the Loire Estuary from Nantes to discover the city’s maritime past and industrial landscape. Choose between a 90-minute Croisiere Escapade en Loire trip or a three-hour Estuaire Nantes trip to Saint-Nazaire. Enjoy the scenic riverbank, permanent art installations, and the opportunity to visit attractions like a real submarine, the world of old ocean liners, or the famous shipyard.
How to get to the Loire River Estuary from Nantes: Take Tram Line 1 to the Gare Maritime stop. Cruises depart from Quai Ernest Renaud at the Gare Maritime, and booking in advance is essential.
5. Vannes
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Step back in time and explore the walled town of Vannes on the Golf de Morbihan. Admire the 15th-century half-timbered buildings, enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the marina, and take in the majestic views from the city ramparts. Don’t miss the vibrant market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, offering tempting treats like tourtière aux pommes. If you have time, consider visiting the Cairn de Gavrinis, a Neolithic monument with fascinating carvings.
How to get to Vannes from Nantes: Direct trains to Vannes depart from Gare de Nantes. It’s a short walk to the historic center or you can take a bus to the Port.
6. Clisson
Travel time: 30 minutes
Escape the modern world with a short train ride to Clisson. Enjoy the picturesque view of the Sèvre Nantaise river from the Pont de la Vallée bridge and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens at Domaine de la Garenne Lemot. Don’t forget to grab a sandwich at Les Halles, a 14th-century covered marketplace. Visit the haunted 13th-century chateau and, if you’re a fan of rock music, plan your trip around the Hellfest, a renowned summer music festival held in Clisson.
How to get to Clisson from Nantes: Take a direct TER train from Gare de Nantes to Clisson. It’s a short walk to town.
About the Article
“Discover the Best Day Trips from Nantes” is an informative guide for those seeking exciting adventures beyond the lively city of Nantes. Whether you’re interested in exploring picturesque islands, charming port towns, or historic sites, this article provides all the necessary information to plan your day trips. With convenient transportation options and a variety of attractions to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
From the stunning beaches of Noirmoutier to the medieval charm of Vannes, the day trips from Nantes offer a diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, these destinations have something to offer. So pack your bags, hop on a train, and embark on an unforgettable adventure from Nantes!
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
