A surprising journey along the Loire estuary, where art meets nature
From Nantes to Saint-Nazaire, let yourself be seduced by the charms of the Loire estuary, where river and ocean blend in a spellbinding symphony. This unique landscape, shaped by nature and the industrial and maritime history of the Loire-Atlantique region, provides an ideal playground for contemporary artists, who have scattered their works here, creating an open-air art trail.
You'll love
The incredible Estuaire collection of contemporary artworks scattered along the banks of the Loire.
Charming fishing villages, where time seems to stand still.
Preserved natural areas, where flora and fauna flourish in total freedom.
Relaxation and well-being in a spa overlooking the ocean.
Day 1 : From Nantes to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, a day of art and history
Morning: Stroll along the Canal de la Martinière
Start your stroll along the Canal de la Martinière, built in the 19th century to facilitate navigation between Nantes and the ocean. Take advantage of this peaceful stroll to admire Erwin Wurm's "Misconceivable", a giant sailboat that seems to be trying to escape the canal to reach the Loire.
Afternoon: Discover Paimbœuf
Continue your journey to Paimbœuf, a former fishing and trading port whose colorful houses bear witness to its rich past. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover the Starry Garden, a work by Kinya Maruyama inspired by the Big Dipper constellation. This poetic garden, where plants and vernacular materials blend harmoniously, is a true haven of peace.
Evening: Saint-Brevin-les-Pins and the Serpent d'Océan
End your first day at Saint-Brevin-les-Pins with a visit to Huang Yong Ping's famous Serpent d'Océan, a monumental sculpture in the shape of an immense skeleton that appears and disappears with the tides. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing wellness break at the Beryl hotel spa, where you can unwind while admiring the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 2 : From Cordemais to Lavau-sur-Loire, an immersion in nature and art
Morning: Terre d'Estuaire and Villa Cheminée
Head for Cordemais to visit Terre d'Estuaire, the Loire Interpretation Center dedicated to discovering the estuary and its natural and cultural riches. Don't miss the Villa Cheminée, a work by Tatzu Nishi overlooking the chimney of a former power station, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon: Tadashi Kawamata Observatory
Continue your day with a visit to Lavau-sur-Loire, where the Tadashi Kawamata Observatory awaits you. This 6-metre-high wooden tower is a veritable belvedere overlooking the estuary and its wild landscapes. Take the wooden path that winds through the reed beds and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Evening: Couëron and "La Maison dans la Loire
To round off your duo adventure, take the ferry to Couëron or Indre from Le Pellerin or Indret for an exploration of the north bank of the Loire. In Couëron, don't miss "La Maison dans la Loire", a work by Jean-Luc Courcoult that seems to be stranded on the edge of the Loire. This unusual house, built as the last in the village before the river reclaims its rights, is a poetic testament to the power of nature.
Extend your stay
If you'd like to extend your romantic getaway on the Loire estuary, don't miss the region's must-sees:
- La Baule, a famous seaside resort renowned for its long sandy beach and sumptuous Belle Époque villas.
- Le Croisic, a charming fishing port with cobbled streets and granite houses, where lovers will love to stroll.
- Guérande, a medieval city surrounded by ramparts, renowned for its salt marshes and fleur de sel.
