La Nouaye combines a distinctive historic landmark with several ways to make your stay active. Saint-Hubert Church and the Calvary cross represent the local heritage; there are also hiking routes and trails for cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and trail running. If you don’t want to devote your days to just one focus, you can treat culture and exercise as different parts of your trip. A specific distance and duration are provided for a short hike, while yellow waymarkers help you navigate the Circuit des trois rivières.
Saint-Hubert Church and historic landmarks
Saint-Hubert Church is a listed historic monument. It was probably built in the 15th or 16th century. The church includes a chapel dedicated to Saint Hubert and the Virgin Mary. It is designed in the same style as the portal. This combines the building’s uncertain dating with a specific architectural detail, without treating its construction date as definitively established.
As well as being used for church services, the church hosts music concerts, cultural events and local activities open to everyone. The programme may vary; if you want to attend a particular event, check the details in advance. The parish also has a long history: La Nouaye is considered a very old parish and probably existed before the 9th century. This cautious dating distinguishes the historical assessment from a precisely documented foundation date.
Another testament to the town’s history is the Calvary cross. Originally an eight-metre-high monument, its remains are classified as historic monuments. Together with the listed church, it offers another perspective on La Nouaye’s heritage. The two sights represent different kinds of historic landmark: a church building with a chapel, and a monument whose surviving remains determine its current classification.
Hiking and comparing routes
For a shorter hike, the Circuit de la haie Saudrine No. 106 is a well-defined option. This easy walking route is four kilometres long and takes about an hour. It starts at the car park by La Nouaye town hall. This information helps you estimate how long the walk will take; local trail conditions may vary. Check parking and access locally before setting off.
The Circuit des trois rivières offers different guidance: yellow waymarkers identify the circular route. It passes by the small town of La Nouaye, leaving it on your left. The two routes therefore offer different planning details: the Circuit de la haie Saudrine has a stated distance and approximate duration, while the Circuit des trois rivières is described by its marker colour and the way it passes the town. This lets you choose based on the kind of guidance you want, without assuming both routes have the same planning information.
Routes for hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and trail running are available to download for free in La Nouaye. The municipality may update the routes and download links. The different activities offer alternatives to hiking, without every route requiring the same mode of transport. Families can also get free activity booklets for exploring nature. Availability may change; check the latest edition if you plan to use one.
Horse riding in La Nouaye
The equestrian centre in La Nouaye offers riding lessons, activities and competitions for all levels. It was founded in 1992. The riding offer complements the downloadable horse-riding routes with a dedicated place for lessons and other activities. If you’re planning a visit, check the current booking arrangements in advance. Lessons, activities and competitions are different offerings at the centre; which one suits your stay depends on what you specifically want to do.
Discover more destinations: Tinteniac, Saint-Père, Sainte-Anne-sur-Vilaine, Roz-Sur-Couesnon, Meillac, Luitré, Lohéac, La Chapelle-Aux-Filtzméens.
For the broader travel overview: Ille-Et-Vilaine.
