BEAULIEU SUR LAYON - CIRCUIT LPO RESERVE NATURELLE RÉGIONALE DU PONT BARRÉ

The vineyards of Angers, a land of hikes. Take to the steep paths to discover one of Maine-et-Loire's biodiversity hotspots. The rocky outcrops and south-facing aspect of this site give it a southern feel: a change of scenery guaranteed in the heart of the Layon valley.

This trail allows you to discover the rich flora and fauna of the Coteaux du Pont Barré Regional Nature Reserve, managed by the LPO Anjou. Can only be explored on foot.
Length: 10.2 km from Beaulieu-sur-Layon (follow the red and yellow GR® de Pays signposts), 3 km from the signpost to the south of the trail (see general map of trails).

Description of the shortest route, 3 km :
From the car park alongside the RD160, head down towards the Layon and follow the river (do not cross the RD). Pass under the arches of the bridge and then head up towards the Pont-Barré site on the right (a totem pole marks the entrance to the nature reserve). The grassy path that you take leads you to the foot of an imposing lime kiln, built in 1841, the workings of which are explained on an information panel.

Then begins the climb up the hillside at the foot of an old quarry, through a steep landscape worthy of a mid-mountain hike! Along the way, take the time to observe the Stipe pennée, a southern-affinity grass found nowhere else in Maine-et-Loire. Listen out for the cicadas and, in June, follow the flight of the Ascalaphe, an insect that is part butterfly, part dragonfly. Finally, don't be surprised if you come across some sheep - they're the "caretakers" of these hillsides.

The path then bends to the right and leads you through vineyards and rocky outcrops. As the seasons change, you'll have the chance to spot some very rare plant species, such as the Bohemian tulip, the woodland tulip and its cousin the southern tulip.

When you reach the top of the hill, stop to admire the breathtaking panoramic view over the Layon valley. Continue through the vineyards and then descend into a wooded valley, where you can enjoy the shade in summer. The old dry-stone walls, which are gradually being restored, will guide you on your way.

After crossing a small village lane, you finish your walk along the Layon and pass by the recently restored former house of the lime kiln foreman.