Canal de la Martinière Le Pellerin
A serene waterside haven with a unique art installation, perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, and family outings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Medieval festival with shows
Canal de la Martinière Le Pellerin
Best Time
Medieval festival with shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene waterside haven with a unique art installation, perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, and family outings.
"Superb, quiet, and relaxing place, very clean, dogs allowed. Play area for children, picnic table, and beautiful walks to do."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leash up your furry friends! This canal is perfect for walks with dogs, with plenty of space to roam.
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Towpaths
Explore the scenic kilometers of towpaths, ideal for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Misconceivable' Soft Boat
Canal de la Martinière
A unique 9-meter sailboat that appears to dive headfirst into the water, a true artistic marvel.

Medieval Festival
Le Pellerin
Experience a vibrant medieval festival with shows and activities on the 3rd weekend of August.
Waterside Walks & Picnics
Canal de la Martinière towpaths
Enjoy serene walks or bike rides along kilometers of towpaths, with picnic tables for a relaxing break.
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Exploring the Canal
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leash up your furry friends! This canal is perfect for walks with dogs, with plenty of space to roam.
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Towpaths
Explore the scenic kilometers of towpaths, ideal for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk.
🎨 Art Installation Alert
Don't miss the 'misconceivable' soft boat, a quirky and memorable art piece by the water.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a basket! Numerous picnic tables are available for a delightful meal amidst nature.
If you could live anywhere in Nantes?
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leash up your furry friends! This canal is perfect for walks with dogs, with plenty of space to roam.
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk the Towpaths
Explore the scenic kilometers of towpaths, ideal for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk.
🎨 Art Installation Alert
Don't miss the 'misconceivable' soft boat, a quirky and memorable art piece by the water.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a basket! Numerous picnic tables are available for a delightful meal amidst nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Canal de la Martinière as a superb, quiet, and relaxing spot perfect for walks and picnics. The unique 'misconceivable' soft boat art installation is a highlight, and the area is very dog-friendly. While generally peaceful, the annual medieval festival in August can bring crowds and an entry fee for older children.
"Superb, quiet, and relaxing place, very clean, dogs allowed. Play area for children, picnic table, and beautiful walks to do."
angélique hercé
"Nice place to go for a walk or a bike ride.
The 3rd weekend of August, there is a medieval festival with various shows. 2nd entry for children over 12 years old. Easy parking. Refreshment bar and catering on site."
Julien 44
"The Martinière canal is a true little paradise for nature lovers. Bordered by several dozen kilometers of towpath, it offers different circuits from 6 km to 13 km, ideal for a country outing with your dog. Under the willows and poplars, picnic tables await us to enjoy a moment of relaxation with the family. The highlight of the trip: the 'misconceivable' soft boat, a 9-metre sailboat appearing to dive headfirst into the water."
Zitou “Chien Reporter”
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Canal de la Martinière is located in Le Pellerin. Visitors can access it via car, with easy parking available. For those exploring Nantes, it's a scenic spot to venture beyond the main tourist areas.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed, it's recommended to check local Nantes transport options. The area is also accessible by walking or biking from nearby points like the river barge crossing.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking along the extensive towpaths. You can also take a barge across the river and then walk or cycle upriver for beautiful paths.
Yes, driving is a convenient option, and easy parking is available, especially during events like the medieval festival.
The canal is a prominent feature in Le Pellerin, and signage should guide you. It's a well-known spot for locals and visitors alike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, accessing the canal and its walking paths is free. However, during special events like the medieval festival, there might be an entry fee, particularly for children over 12.
The canal and its surrounding paths are typically open year-round during daylight hours, offering a peaceful escape. Special events may have specific timings.
It's advisable to check the specific details for the medieval festival closer to the date. While some events might allow on-the-spot purchase, booking in advance can save time and guarantee entry.
The area is generally welcoming, with dogs allowed on leash. It's a family-friendly spot, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Entry for children over 12 years old has a fee during the medieval festival. Adult pricing is not specified but is generally reasonable for such events.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique 'misconceivable' soft boat art installation, especially during sunset for dramatic lighting. The serene waters, lush greenery, and charming towpaths also make for beautiful shots.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most picturesque light for capturing the canal's beauty. The soft light enhances the colors and reflections on the water.
The 'misconceivable' soft boat is a must-photograph subject. Also, the picturesque bridges and the reflections of trees in the water provide excellent photographic subjects.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged during the medieval festival. It's a great opportunity to capture vibrant scenes, costumes, and performances.
A versatile lens that can capture both wide landscapes and details of the art installation would be ideal. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During the medieval festival, there's a refreshment bar and catering available on-site. For other times, packing a picnic is a popular and enjoyable option.
Absolutely! The canal is a perfect picnic spot, with many picnic tables available along the towpaths. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery.
You can expect a refreshment bar and catering services to be available on-site during the festival, offering food and drinks for visitors.
While not detailed here, the town of Le Pellerin likely has local eateries. However, the canal itself is more geared towards outdoor enjoyment and picnics.
Yes, during special events like the medieval festival, a refreshment bar and catering are provided. Otherwise, bringing your own provisions is recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the 3rd weekend of August, the medieval festival provides extra entertainment with various shows, though be mindful of the entry fee for children over 12. The 'misconceivable' soft boat art installation is also a quirky point of interest that can spark children's imagination.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to bring water for your pets and be considerate of other visitors. The open spaces and natural environment make it an enjoyable outing for both you and your canine friends.
🚶♀️ Nature & Relaxation Seekers
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to experience the canal at its most serene. The gentle sounds of nature and the picturesque views create a perfect ambiance for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the 'Misconceivable' Soft Boat
This artistic intervention transforms the tranquil waterscape into a point of intrigue. It encourages viewers to pause and contemplate the relationship between nature, art, and human ingenuity. The boat's unusual posture against the backdrop of the canal offers fantastic photographic opportunities and sparks conversation among visitors.
Many visitors highlight this installation as a unique highlight, differentiating the Canal de la Martinière from other waterways. It’s a piece that truly embodies the spirit of discovery and artistic expression that can be found in unexpected places.
Exploring the Towpaths: Walks and Rides
These paths wind through picturesque landscapes, shaded by willows and poplars, providing a serene environment for relaxation and exercise. It's a popular spot for families and dog owners alike, offering ample space for children to play and dogs to roam. Numerous picnic tables are strategically placed along the way, inviting visitors to stop and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Redditors often mention the peacefulness of these walks and the beauty of the natural surroundings. It's a great way to experience the local environment and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The accessibility and variety of routes make it a consistently recommended activity for anyone visiting the area.
The Annual Medieval Festival
During the festival, visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere with performances and a chance to immerse themselves in a medieval setting. For families, it's a particularly engaging event, though there is an entry fee for children over 12 years old. The festival also includes on-site refreshment bars and catering, making it a convenient outing.
While the festival offers a unique cultural experience, it's important to note that it can attract significant crowds. If you prefer a quieter visit, it's best to explore the canal on other dates. However, for those seeking a festive and historical immersion, this event is a major draw.
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