BOUCLE N°22 - SAINT HILAIRE DE RIEZ

A surprising journey by bike between marsh and forest...

With its vast surface area and multitude of natural environments, Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez is the ideal starting point for cycling outings. To get the festivities off to a good start, loop 22 takes you as close as possible to the Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez forest. You'll follow a wide cycle path along the edge of the forest. A few kilometres further on, the loop takes you into a completely different world, that of the Marais Breton Vendéen. The route takes you along a greenway that cuts right through the heart of the natural environment, offering sweeping views of the forest and wide open spaces. Numerous canals lined with wildlife will pass before your eyes. There's no doubt that the local landscape is alive with different species of bird.

Still in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, the loop then takes you through various districts, including Le Pissot and La Fradinière. This other part of the town is sure to appeal to cyclists. As well as being a particularly peaceful and welcoming place, the area boasts a particularly wooded and well-shaded setting. As part of the Marais Breton Vendéen, it's not unusual to spot typical houses and old farms.

Things to see and do:
- The Bourrinne du Bois Juquaud
- The Mathes battle site
- Sacha and the enchanted tree" treasure hunt
- The forest of Saint Hilaire de Riez