The best walks and hikes around La Tardière
4.5
(153)
596
hikers
58
hikes
Hiking around La Tardière offers varied landscapes, characterized by its hilly and wooded countryside, known as bocage. The region features meadows, hedges, and forests, providing diverse terrain for exploration. The Mère and Loing rivers traverse the area, and the scenic Lake of L'Etruyère is a prominent natural feature. This mix of woodlands, waterways, and gentle hills defines the hiking experience in La Tardière.
Best hiking trails around La Tardière
- The most popular hiking route is Chapel of La Brossardière –…
Last updated: October 19, 2026
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
14.9km
04:03
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(2)
9
hikers
9.72km
02:37
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.5
(2)
13
hikers
5.37km
01:30
100m
100m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(2)
6
hikers
13.5km
03:37
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
20.0km
05:29
310m
310m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
This old quartzite quarry was active until 1953. Beautiful rock walls dominate the quarries, now redeveloped into a bucolic body of water.
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The stream of the same name flows into this pretty little body of water. A very pleasant path runs along part of it while the Étruyère campsite is located on the banks opposite.
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The legend of the name comes from Mr. Gaudin who, one day while walking on the Moulins hill, fell and lost his tooth in this rock. There is little information about this virgin. Some testimonies from "old-timers" report that this monument dates back to the end of the 19th century. The statue of the Virgin sits on the edge of a ravine, facing east, like a figurehead at the front of the hill, like an immense ship.
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Around 1562, Charles de la Forest de Vaudoré, a Protestant lord of Brossardière, erected a sort of barn so that his co-religionists could have a place of worship. It is in this same temple that, on August 13, 1595, during the sermon, a massacre took place. While the French religious wars had just ended, a troop of 45 men-at-arms burst into the midst of the faithful and left behind 31 dead and 33 wounded. In 1791, the entire site was sold as national property to a certain Baudet de la Tardière. The wars of Vendée and the infernal columns did not spare the sanctuary in 1793, since in Jean Huet's pamphlet on Brossardière we can read this: "the chapel was completely uncovered, everything was burned there and the calcined walls fell in ruins". Despite the persecutions, the faithful continued to come there in secret, to venerate a small earthenware statuette. In 1824, by notarial deed, Etienne-Marie Giraud, owner at the time, gave what remained of the chapel to the town of La Tardière. The Parish Factory Council will then be responsible for carrying out the restorations. From 1836, Abbé Girond, who had just been appointed parish priest of La Tardière, endeavored to establish the customs of novenas. During the nine days following August 15 and September 8, crowds flock to the humble sanctuary. On some days, nearly 3,000 people flocked to the Brossardière pilgrimage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in La Tardière?
La Tardière offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 50 routes available. These trails cater to various fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around La Tardière?
The terrain in La Tardière is characterized by its hilly and wooded countryside, known as bocage. You'll encounter a diverse landscape featuring meadows, hedges, green lanes, and forests. The area is also traversed by the Mère and Loing rivers, adding riparian beauty to the trails.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, La Tardière has plenty of easy hiking options. There are over 20 easy routes available, perfect for those looking for a relaxed walk. An example is the Hiking loop from Cheffois, which is an easy 5.4 km trail.
Can I find circular hiking routes in La Tardière?
Many of the trails in La Tardière are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, you can explore the Lac de l'Etruyère – Étang de la Jarousselière loop from Terval, a moderate 9.7 km path offering scenic views of the lake.
What scenic natural features can I see on the hiking trails?
Hikers in La Tardière can enjoy several beautiful natural features. The prominent Lake of L'Etruyère is a highlight, often incorporated into routes. You'll also encounter the Mère and Loing rivers, and the region's characteristic bocage landscape with its lush woodlands and rolling hills. Consider the Lac de l'Etruyère – Le Petit Puits loop from Terval for lake views.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Yes, the area around La Tardière offers several points of interest. Some routes pass by the historic Chapel de la Brossardière. You might also encounter local tree nurseries, which are integrated into some walking paths. For broader exploration, nearby attractions include the Medieval Village of Vouvant and the Bridge at the foot of Porte La Poterne.
Are the hiking trails in La Tardière suitable for families with children?
Many of the easier trails in La Tardière are suitable for families. The varied landscape with woodlands and lakes provides an engaging environment for children. Always check the specific route's difficulty and length to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in La Tardière?
The region's mild climate generally makes hiking enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flora or vibrant fall colors. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making early morning or late afternoon hikes ideal.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in La Tardière?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in La Tardière, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse and picturesque bocage landscape, the serene lake views, and the well-maintained network of trails that offer options for all abilities.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
While many routes are moderate or easy, there are options for more experienced trekkers. The region's hilly terrain allows for longer, more strenuous walks. For example, the Étang de la Jarousselière – Lac de l'Etruyère loop from Terval is a moderate 13.5 km trail that takes around 3 hours 36 minutes to complete, offering a good challenge.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in La Tardière?
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not always listed, La Tardière is generally accessible by car. It's advisable to check individual route descriptions or local signage for designated parking areas near popular starting points, such as those in Terval or La Châtaigneraie.
Can I combine hiking with other outdoor activities in the La Tardière region?
Absolutely! Beyond hiking, the La Tardière region and the broader Vendée area are excellent for other outdoor pursuits. You can enjoy cycling, mountain biking, road cycling, and running. The Lake of L'Etruyère also offers opportunities for fishing and picnicking.
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