4.5
(224)
1,491
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Zad often feature routes connecting historical landmarks like La Tour Castle and Haut-Gesvres Castle. The region's paths frequently follow waterways, such as the Cens river, with wooden bridges adding to the scenic variety. These trails offer a mix of terrain, from riverside paths to routes with gentle elevation changes, suitable for family outings. The landscape provides opportunities for exploring both natural features and historical sites.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5
hikers
17.5km
04:39
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
51
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.7
(3)
20
hikers
18.2km
04:46
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
14.0km
03:41
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
9.32km
02:27
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At the end of Rue Étienne Sébert, hidden by an imposing wooded park, lies Haut-Gesvres Park, part of the Haut-Gesvres estate. A vast green space teeming with treasures, including: - A permanent orienteering course - A large children's play area - A botanical and historical trail In the welcoming and green setting of Haut-Gesvres Park, discover the Permanent Orienteering Course, a sports and leisure facility open to all. How to play? The goal is to find a certain number of markers depending on the course you wish to complete, using the orienteering maps downloadable below, or by scanning the QR code on the information board at the park entrance with your smartphone. A total of 7 different courses await you.
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Beautiful 16th century castle surrounded by a magnificent park. Many paths cross the park and the forest, lending themselves perfectly to a two-wheeled adventure.
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This small bridge allows you to cross the Cens and access more trails in the Orvault woods.
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To the north of the town of Orvault, the Château de la Tour is a magnificent 15th century building, set in a veritable green setting. The castle belongs since 1982 to the municipality and its park and open to the public.
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Orvault, located a day's walk from the city center of Nantes, is a pleasant little town nestled on either side of the Cens. With its two towns (north and south), Orvault has all the necessary amenities to make your hike more enjoyable: cafes, restaurants, supermarkets and hotels.
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Very nice single, made in Gravel.
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Splendor and decadence, squat and rebirth!
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Zad offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with a total of 11 routes featured in this guide. These include 3 easy trails, 6 moderate options, and 2 more challenging routes for families seeking a bit more adventure.
The family-friendly trails in Zad generally feature varied terrain suitable for different ages. While specific details vary by route, you can expect paths that are manageable for children, often passing through natural landscapes. For example, routes like the La Tour Castle – Haut-Gesvres Castle loop from Treillières offer a mix of surfaces over their moderate distance.
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in Zad are designed as circular walks, making them convenient for day trips. For instance, the Wooden bridge over the Cens – La Tour Castle loop from Chatillon is a great example of a loop trail that brings you back to your starting point.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hiking experiences in Zad, with an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 196 ratings. Hikers often praise the scenic beauty and the well-maintained paths that make these routes enjoyable for all ages.
Yes, Zad has 3 easy family-friendly trails perfect for beginners or families with very young children. These routes typically have minimal elevation gain and shorter distances, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For families looking for a longer and more challenging adventure, Zad offers 2 difficult trails. Additionally, there are 6 moderate routes, such as the Château de la Tour – Cens Trail in Orvault loop from Chatillon, which provides a substantial distance and moderate elevation changes, suitable for active families.
While specific natural features vary by trail, many routes in Zad incorporate historical landmarks and scenic elements. For example, several trails, like the La Tour Castle – Wooden bridge over the Cens loop from Chatillon, feature castles and bridges, offering interesting points of interest for families to explore along the way.
The best time for family hiking in Zad generally depends on local weather patterns. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can be ideal for longer daylight hours. Always check local forecasts before heading out.
Many of the trails in Zad offer picturesque sections and potential viewpoints, allowing families to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. While specific panoramic viewpoints are not detailed for every route, the varied terrain and historical sites often provide charming vistas.
For autumn hiking in Zad, it's advisable to dress in layers. Temperatures can vary throughout the day, so waterproof outer layers are recommended in case of rain, along with comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes suitable for potentially damp or leaf-covered paths.
While all trails in this guide are popular for their family-friendly nature, exploring some of the less-trafficked moderate routes, such as the Château de la Tour – Haut-Gesvres Castle loop from Chatillon, might lead you to discover quieter sections and unique local charm away from the busiest spots.


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