The best walks and hikes around Berrie
4.3
(12)
101
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking around Berrie offers a network of trails through a landscape characterized by gentle hills, historic sites, and tranquil ponds. The region features a mix of open countryside and areas with historical significance, such as ancient dolmens and fortresses. Elevation gains are generally modest, making many routes accessible for various fitness levels. The terrain primarily consists of well-maintained paths suitable for walking and exploring the local heritage.
Best hiking trails around Berrie
- The most popular hiking route is Dolmens and…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(2)
4
hikers
11.4km
03:00
100m
100m
Hike the moderate 7.1-mile Les Trois-Moutiers and Vaon dolmen loop, exploring ancient megaliths and rural French landscapes.
4.6
(5)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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23
hikers
2.59km
00:39
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
10
hikers
10.7km
02:50
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Montreuil, or small monastery, and Bellay, named after Lord Berlay installed in 1025 by Foulque de Nerra, founder of the rich province of Anjou, has been a walled town since the 13th century. Located at the crossroads of Anjou, Touraine and Poitou, the city became a strategic and commercial issue from the Middle Ages. This interest is reflected in the construction of fortified enclosures. A first belt (11th century), direct protection of the castle, is completed by an impressive rampart (13th century) encompassing the upper and lower towns, while a third enclosure ensures control of the ford. Six monumental gates, four of which still exist, were opened by the lords of Harcourt. These great builders endowed Montreuil-Bellay with exceptional architecture, which characterizes the appearance of the town even today: tuffeau lacework on the facades of the houses, the bossage of the towers of the Porte Saint-Jean, the tangle of the roofs of the house of the castle, turreted manors, castle chapel turned collegiate church, castles, Saint-Jean hospital... The 15th century is undoubtedly the golden century of Montreuil-Bellay, which can now be discovered in this preserved setting.
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A must-see among the castles of the Loire, that of Montreuil-Bellay is very impressive, although less known, with its 15 defense towers and its 600 meters of ramparts. Fully furnished and inhabited by the same family since 1822, the castle located on a rocky promontory can be visited. Just like the gardens, suspended above the Thouet. From the ramparts, you will have a breathtaking view of the vineyards of the château's wine estate.
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Beautiful town with castle and majestic ramparts, located in the heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional natural park on the edge of the Thouet. In the heart of the Saumur vineyards, Montreuil-Bellay is the perfect place to visit cellars and taste regional wines.
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The Vaon Dolmen is an impressive 1.5m high and the chamber inside is 6m. The rock slabs are thought to come from the Butte de Saint-Drémont.
2
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10-hectare body of water on the cycle route of the Thouet Valley. Swimming prohibited but you can cycle around it.
1
0
Pretty town away from the tourist trails. Castle to visit. Shops & restaurants on site
0
0
Magnificent 12th century fortress. Troglodyte dwellings in the moat.
0
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A fairly well-preserved 12th century fortress. Troglodyte dwellings in the moats. Lovers of old stones and history: this is for you!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Berrie?
Berrie offers a diverse network of nearly 20 hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging excursions. This includes 8 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in Berrie?
Yes, Berrie is well-suited for easy and family-friendly hikes, with 8 routes classified as easy. A great option is the Ballastière Pond loop from Saint-Martin-de-Sanzay, an easy 2.6 km trail that's perfect for a leisurely walk around a tranquil pond.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Berrie?
Many of the trails around Berrie are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Dolmens and Sacred Stones around Les Trois-Moutiers and the Berrie Fortress loop from Pouançay, both offering scenic loops through historic landscapes.
What kind of historical landmarks can I see on hikes near Berrie?
The Berrie region is rich in history. You can explore ancient megalithic structures on the Dolmens and Sacred Stones around Les Trois-Moutiers trail. Other routes feature impressive fortifications like the Berrie Fortress and the magnificent Montreuil-Bellay Castle, which you can view on the Château de Montreuil-Bellay loop.
Are there any trails that pass by water features or ponds?
Yes, the landscape around Berrie includes tranquil ponds. The Ballastière Pond loop from Saint-Martin-de-Sanzay is a dedicated route that takes you around the serene Ballastière Pond, offering peaceful waterside views.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Berrie?
The trails in Berrie are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the blend of open countryside with historic sites, and the tranquil atmosphere of the region.
What is the typical length and duration of hikes in Berrie?
Hikes in Berrie vary in length and duration. Many popular routes, such as the Dolmens and Sacred Stones trail, are around 11-12 km (7-7.5 miles) and can take approximately 3 hours to complete. Shorter, easy options like the Ballastière Pond loop are about 2.6 km (1.6 miles) and take less than an hour.
Are there good viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
The region's gentle hills and open countryside offer numerous scenic spots. Trails like the Château de Montreuil-Bellay – Montreuil-Bellay Castle loop provide picturesque views of the historic castle and surrounding river landscapes. The routes often traverse a mix of open fields and wooded areas, providing varied vistas.
Is Berrie suitable for winter hiking?
While specific winter conditions can vary, the modest elevation gains and generally well-maintained paths in Berrie make many routes accessible during winter, provided there isn't heavy snow or ice. Always check local weather conditions and trail reports before heading out in colder months.
Are there any other notable attractions to visit near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails, the area boasts several attractions. You can visit the impressive Montreuil-Bellay Castle, explore the historic Berrie Fortress, or even discover the Saumur Wine Route for a different kind of exploration.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Berrie?
The best time to hike in Berrie is generally during spring, summer, and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the gentle hills, historic sites, and tranquil ponds. Spring brings blooming nature, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage across the open countryside.
Are there options for longer, more challenging hikes?
While most routes are easy to moderate, Berrie does offer a few longer options. For example, the Château de Montreuil-Bellay – Montreuil-Bellay Castle loop from Montreuil-Bellay is a moderate 12.1 km (7.5 miles) path, and there is one route classified as difficult for those seeking a greater challenge.
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