Top 10 Lakes around Le Pellerin
Best lakes around Le Pellerin offer diverse water bodies for recreation and natural exploration. While large natural lakes are not abundant directly in Le Pellerin, the surrounding region features notable options. The historic Canal de la Martinière, located within Le Pellerin, provides a unique natural and historical feature. Nearby, Lac de la Roche Ballue in Bouguenais is a popular destination for water activities.
Best lakes around Le Pellerin
- The most popular lakes is Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu, a trail that offers a shaded walking path along the marshes of Lake Gd Lieu. It provides views of the lake and its environment.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Beaulieu, a young lake created in 1992. It is classified as a Natura 2000 site, with fauna and flora to discover along its 2.3 km path.
- Visitors also love Mabille Valley Lake, an artificial lake known for hosting activities on its shores. The GR 3 trail meanders along its banks, making it a place for long-distance hikers and runners.
- Le Pellerin is known for artificial lakes, former quarries filled with water, and trails along large lake marshes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore.
- The lakes around Le Pellerin are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 7 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Etang de Roche Ballue
Highlight • Lake
Be careful, beyond the buoys, the pond becomes very deep and therefore dangerous. It is therefore necessary to supervise the children.
There are also children's games, picnic tables and a bicross field on site.
NB: entry is payable in summer (with supervised swimming).
Apart from the road, several options of paths to get there or from there:
The Chemin des Foulques allows you to continue along the slopes towards La Montagne, for fairly committed cycling and passages that will require you to dismount.
The path of the Estacade which goes towards the Loire (cul-de-sac) offers several observation posts of the wetlands and their avian fauna.
The Chemin de la Mandrine links with the Port Lavigne shipyard and the statues of animals perched in the trees.
Finally, the Chemin de la Sangle goes towards Bouguenais. Nice, but you have to climb a long and steep staircase, so not at all compatible with heavy bikes or panniers.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Mabille Valley Lake
Highlight • Lake
Very famous among the locals, this little green setting is also a delight for long-distance hikers. Indeed, the iconic GR 3 meanders along its banks.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Blue Hole
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
At the end, Coté St Aignan, you absolutely must continue to the equally unmissable site of "Pierre Aigüe" in order to admire the most beautiful view of the Lake and its environment.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Beaulieu
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Le Pellerin.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
It's quiet and it rolls well Perfect for a quiet ride
0
0
Superb spot to take a break during the hike, there are facilities for a mini training session if the hike hasn't exhausted you too much
0
0
The “Blue Hole” brings together three old granite quarries, at a place called “La Garenne”, on the road to Donges. They were formerly located on the banks of the Loire. They filled naturally with water after their operation ended in 1980. Its name is due to the blue color of the water.
0
0
The Lac de la Vallée Mabille is an ideal place to run. The tracks are impeccable thanks in particular to the GR3 which runs along its banks.
2
1
A young lake, created only in 1992 The Lac de Beaulieu is an essential place to visit for hikers who take the 2.3 km path that surrounds it. It is also classified Natura 2000 site, the fauna and flora are therefore to be discovered on the course.
2
0
Lac de la Vallée Mabille, more commonly known as Lac de Savenay, is a beautiful body of water located at the eastern entrance to the town of Savenay. Artificial, the lake hosts many activities on its shores: a swimming pool, a campsite, a leisure park, a golf course and a hotel-restaurant. Very famous among the locals, this little green setting is also a delight for long-distance hikers. Indeed, the iconic GR 3 meanders along its banks.
2
0
Three old granite quarries, abandoned in 1980, which naturally filled with water to form beautiful blue ponds, popular with fishermen. Many of the cobblestones of Nantes and Nazaire streets come from this place.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of lakes and water bodies found around Le Pellerin?
While Le Pellerin itself doesn't feature many large natural lakes, the region is known for its diverse water bodies. You'll find historic canals like the Canal de la Martinière, artificial lakes formed from former quarries such as Etang de Roche Ballue, and trails along extensive lake marshes like the Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu. These offer a mix of recreational and natural exploration opportunities.
Where can I go swimming near Le Pellerin?
The most recommended spot for swimming and water activities is the Etang de Roche Ballue, located in Bouguenais, approximately 7.6 km from Le Pellerin. It features a beach and is known for its very good water quality. During summer, entry is typically payable and swimming is supervised. Be aware that the pond becomes very deep beyond the buoys.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities for children?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Etang de Roche Ballue offers children's games, picnic tables, and a bicross field, in addition to supervised swimming in summer. Mabille Valley Lake is also family-friendly, hosting various activities on its shores including a swimming pool and leisure park.
What historical features can I explore around the lakes?
The Canal de la Martinière, located directly in Le Pellerin, is a significant historical feature. Constructed between 1882 and 1892, it was originally built for commercial shipping. Today, it's a tranquil haven for nature and recreation, but its historical significance as a bypass for the Loire River and its connection to naval shipbuilding remain. The Champs Neufs lock on the canal is still used for leisure activities.
Are there good places for hiking or walking near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Canal de la Martinière is a popular spot for hiking and serves as a natural area with serene walking paths. The Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu offers a shaded walking path along the marshes of Lake Gd Lieu, accessible to all. For longer treks, the GR 3 trail meanders along the banks of Mabille Valley Lake. You can find many more options for hiking around Le Pellerin.
Where can I observe nature and wildlife?
The Canal de la Martinière has transformed into a haven for nature, offering a peaceful environment for observing local flora and fauna. The Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu provides views of the Lake Gd Lieu marshes and its environment. Additionally, Lake Beaulieu is classified as a Natura 2000 site, making its 2.3 km path an excellent place to discover diverse fauna and flora.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes for everyone?
Yes, the Lake path between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu is described as a shaded walking path accessible to all, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors, including those with mobility considerations.
What is 'The Blue Hole' and what can I do there?
The Blue Hole refers to three old granite quarries that were abandoned in 1980 and naturally filled with water. These beautiful blue ponds are popular with fishermen. They offer a unique natural setting, with the blue color of the water being a distinctive feature.
Are there opportunities for running near the lakes?
Yes, Mabille Valley Lake is an ideal place for running, with impeccable tracks thanks to the GR3 trail that runs along its banks. You can also find various running trails around Le Pellerin, including loops around the Canal de la Martinière.
What is special about Lake Beaulieu?
Lake Beaulieu is a relatively young lake, created in 1992. It is classified as a Natura 2000 site, highlighting its ecological importance. A 2.3 km path surrounds the lake, making it an essential visit for hikers interested in discovering its unique fauna and flora. It's also a superb spot to take a break during a hike.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Yes, the region offers cycling opportunities. Near Etang de Roche Ballue, the Chemin des Foulques allows you to continue along slopes towards La Montagne, suitable for fairly committed cycling. For gravel biking enthusiasts, there are several gravel biking routes around Le Pellerin, some of which incorporate sections near water bodies.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Le Pellerin?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of the lake paths, such as the shaded trail between Bouaye and Saint Aignan de Grand Lieu. The natural beauty and opportunities for observing avian fauna, especially along paths like the Estacade near Etang de Roche Ballue, are highly valued. The blend of recreation and nature, along with the historical significance of sites like the Canal de la Martinière, also contributes to a unique experience.
Most popular routes around Le Pellerin
Most popular attractions around Le Pellerin
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Le Pellerin? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
