Parc des Ardoisières Trélazé
A unique former quarry transformed into a natural park, featuring a striking shale landscape and a serene quarry pond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Relaxed atmosphere
Parc des Ardoisières Trélazé
Best Time
Relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique former quarry transformed into a natural park, featuring a striking shale landscape and a serene quarry pond.
"A nice place for a walk on a Sunday afternoon. Its quite surprising that plants and trees can even grow on this sort of terrain."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground is very shaley and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for a pleasant walk.
🚫 No Swimming!
While the pond looks inviting, swimming is prohibited. Enjoy the views from the shore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Quarry Pond
Central area
A striking, serene body of water surrounded by shale, offering a unique, almost otherworldly landscape.
Shale Terrain Exploration
Throughout the park
Discover the surprising resilience of nature as plants and trees thrive on the distinctive shaley ground.
Walking Paths
Various trails
Enjoy leisurely strolls through this unusual park, perfect for a relaxed Sunday afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Shale Landscape
Respecting the Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground is very shaley and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for a pleasant walk.
🚫 No Swimming!
While the pond looks inviting, swimming is prohibited. Enjoy the views from the shore.
🗺️ Plan Your Exit
Some exits can be barricaded. Cyclists have reported difficulties finding clear routes out.
🌿 Appreciate Nature
It's amazing how plants grow here! Take time to observe the unique flora on the shale.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground is very shaley and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for a pleasant walk.
🚫 No Swimming!
While the pond looks inviting, swimming is prohibited. Enjoy the views from the shore.
🗺️ Plan Your Exit
Some exits can be barricaded. Cyclists have reported difficulties finding clear routes out.
🌿 Appreciate Nature
It's amazing how plants grow here! Take time to observe the unique flora on the shale.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Parc des Ardoisières Trélazé to be a surprisingly beautiful and unique natural space, particularly appreciating the striking quarry pond and the resilient plant life on the shale. Some note that navigation, especially for cyclists, can be tricky with potentially barricaded exits, and swimming is prohibited.
"The Hotel California Park, you can enter but never leave.
Very lovely, especially around the Quarry Pond.
We were one of many Loire a Velo groups of cyclists, desperately trying to get out. In the end, we lifted our very heavy bikes over a barricaded exit where we heard traffic.
Maybe a signpost or two?"
Laura Landa
"A nice place for a walk on a Sunday afternoon. It's a very shaley area and the only rock you see is shale! Its quite surprising that plants and trees can even grow on this sort of terrain."
Daniel Nordberg
"Really great park to stroll and swim (although prohibited)."
Victor Gandon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with parking available. For cyclists, it's part of the Loire à Vélo route, though some visitors have noted exit challenges.
Information on direct public transport links can be limited. Checking local bus routes or considering a taxi from nearby towns is advisable.
Yes, it's a popular spot for cyclists, especially those on the Loire à Vélo. Be mindful of the terrain and potential exit obstructions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Parc des Ardoisières Trélazé is generally free, making it an accessible natural attraction for all.
As a natural park, it's typically open from dawn till dusk. It's best to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours or event closures.
No, there is no admission fee to explore the park. It's a public space for recreation and enjoying nature.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, exploring the unique shale landscape, and admiring the quarry pond. It's a great spot for a peaceful stroll.
Swimming in the quarry pond is strictly prohibited. Visitors are advised to enjoy the scenery from the designated paths.
Yes, it's a lovely place for a picnic. Find a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Remember to take all your trash with you.
Facilities can be limited in natural parks. It's advisable to check for the most up-to-date information regarding restrooms or other amenities before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Quarry Pond offers dramatic reflections and unique textures. The surrounding shale formations also provide interesting photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The stark beauty of the shale and the water create a compelling landscape that photographers often find captivating.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the uneven terrain and the prohibited swimming in the quarry pond. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and stay within designated walking areas to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
🚴 Cyclists on the Loire à Vélo
It's advisable to have a clear exit strategy or be prepared for potential minor detours. Despite this, many cyclists enjoy passing through or stopping for a brief exploration of this distinctive natural area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Shale Environment
Visitors often express surprise at the ability of plants to grow on such a surface. This ecological adaptation makes the park a compelling subject for nature lovers and photographers alike. The stark beauty of the shale, contrasted with the greenery and the central quarry pond, offers a distinct visual experience unlike typical parks.
When exploring, remember that the shale can be loose and uneven underfoot. This makes sturdy footwear a necessity for a safe and enjoyable visit. The park's unique geology is its defining characteristic, offering a glimpse into how nature reclaims and reshapes industrial landscapes.
Navigating the Park and Potential Challenges
This suggests that while the park is accessible and enjoyable for exploration, it's wise to have a clear understanding of your intended route and potential exit points. For those arriving by bike, especially as part of a longer cycling tour like the Loire à Vélo, it might be beneficial to scout exit paths or be prepared for minor detours.
Despite these minor logistical points, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many appreciating the park's natural beauty and tranquility for a leisurely stroll. The key is to be prepared for the terrain and to be aware of the park's layout to ensure a smooth visit.
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