The Estuary Trail – Where art meets the Loire

Just a few minutes from L’Esplanade Hôtel · Restaurant · Bar à vin, the Estuaire Nantes <> Saint-Nazaire Trailoffers a unique way to explore the Loire estuary. Stretching for almost 60 kilometres, this permanent open-air collection of contemporary artworks links Nantes and Saint-Nazaire while showcasing the river, its villages, industrial heritage and ever-changing landscapes.  

Created as part of Le Voyage à Nantes, the trail features 33 permanent artworks by internationally renowned artists. Monumental sculptures, architectural installations and artistic viewpoints blend seamlessly into the landscape and can be explored freely on foot, by bicycle, by car or even during a river cruise.  

Several of the trail’s highlights are located close to L’Esplanade. In Le Pellerin, discover Misconceivable by Erwin Wurm. In Couëron, admire the iconic House in the Loire, while further downstream you’ll encounter the impressive Serpent d’Océan in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins and the poetic Jardin Étoilé in Paimbœuf.  

More than an art trail, Estuaire is an invitation to discover the Loire estuary through a new perspective, where contemporary art, nature, history and local heritage come together.

Practical information

• Destination: Estuaire Nantes <> Saint-Nazaire Trail
• Distance from L’Esplanade: several artworks are located within a 10-minute drive.
• Highlights: 33 permanent artworks, Loire landscapes, industrial heritage, riverside villages and scenic viewpoints.
• Explore by: walking, cycling, driving or river cruise (seasonal).  
• Perfect for: art lovers, photographers, cyclists and anyone wishing to explore the Loire estuary.
• Tourist information: Estuaire Nantes <> Saint-Nazaire
• Website: Estuaire Nantes <> Saint-Nazaire (FR)

Continue your discovery

From L’Esplanade, continue exploring Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, Paimbœuf, Terre d’Estuaire, La Loire à Vélo and the many artworks that line the banks of the Loire.

Crédit Photo : Le Voyage à Nantes