Viewpoint
Terril d’Abbaretz
Abbaretz · Loire-Atlantique
A former mining spoil heap rising to 121 m, the highest artificial point in Loire-Atlantique, reached by about 200 steps, with a panoramic view over the countryside.
- Suggested time
- 45 minutes to 1 h 30, or 2 hours for the 8 km Sentier de la Mine.
- Type of place
- Viewpoint
- Atmosphere
- Unusual, mineral and almost lunar.
- Getting there
- From the former Abbaretz mine site, then a climb of about 200 steps.
Who this place suits
- With family
- 8/10
- As a couple
- 8/10
- With friends
- 9/10
- Solo
- 9/10
- With a dog
- 8/10
- Reduced mobility
- 2/10
These scores are calculated from what the page records: official rating, facilities, difficulty, duration and location. They are a guide, not a substitute for contacting the venue, especially about accessibility.
About
The Terril d’Abbaretz is a former mountain of mining waste from tin mining between 1952 and 1957. It rises to 121 m and is the highest artificial point in Loire-Atlantique. About 200 steps lead to the top. The view reaches very far over the countryside and the villages and, in excellent visibility, as far as Nantes. The site is part of a 41-hectare departmental natural area that includes the former mine, a lake and woodland.
What you will see
- Type of site: a mining spoil heap and artificial viewpoint.
- Main view: the countryside of northern Loire-Atlantique and, on a very clear day, as far as Nantes.
- Walking: about 200 steps to the top; the Sentier de la Mine is 8 km long and takes about 2 hours.
- Heritage: a former tin mine, worked industrially from 1952 to 1957.
- Environment: a 41-hectare departmental natural area with woodland and about forty bird species recorded.
- It rises to 121 m.
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- It is the highest artificial point in Loire-Atlantique.
Practical information
- Address
- Former mine site, 44170 Abbaretz
- Getting there
- From the former Abbaretz mine site, then a climb of about 200 steps
- Public transport
- A car is practical. The Sentier de la Mine can start from Abbaretz
- Services
- Limited services on site; bring water
- Parking
- Parking at the mine site or at the trail’s starting point
- Pets
- Yes, under control, according to the site’s rules
- Accessibility
- The general circuit is described as accessible, but the climb of 200 steps to the top is not suitable for wheelchairs
- Pushchair
- Not suitable for the climb up the spoil heap
- Difficulty
- Moderate, because of the 200 steps
- Safety
- Steep steps, summer heat, mineral ground and areas that may be closed
- Best time
- A clear morning or late afternoon; spring, autumn and clear days
- Photography
- Excellent for the panorama and the unusual mining landscape
- Nearby
- The former mine, the Abbaretz lake, the Sentier de la Mine, the Gâvre forest, Nozay
Tips on the spot
- Check the local weather on the day; in fog or very poor visibility, postpone if the view is your main aim.
- Come in the morning or late in the day for softer light and fewer people.
- Bring a windproof and waterproof layer: the wind makes it feel much colder.
- Wear shoes with good grip; after heavy rain, paths can be muddy or slippery.
- Never cross a fence or safety marking for a better photo, and stay back from the cliff edge in strong wind.
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- With children, be especially careful near cliffs, rocks and exposed areas; keep dogs on a lead.
- Stay on the paths to limit erosion, and take all your litter home.
- Do not count on toilets at the viewpoint, and bring water if the site is isolated.
- Do not fly a drone without checking the rules, and do not disturb seabirds.
- For sunset, plan your walk back after dark and bring a small torch.
- Bring water before climbing the 200 steps.
- Avoid the climb at the hottest times of a summer day.
- Check for any partial closures of the site.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of viewpoint is it?
A mining spoil heap and artificial viewpoint.
What can you see from it?
A panoramic view over the countryside of northern Loire-Atlantique and, on a very clear day, as far as Nantes.
Why is it worth the detour?
An unusual panorama, very different from the coast, linked to the history of the former tin mine.
How much time should I allow?
45 minutes to 1 h 30, or 2 hours for the 8 km Sentier de la Mine.
How far do I need to walk?
About 200 steps to the top. The Sentier de la Mine is 8 km long and takes about 2 hours.
Is the site free?
Yes, access is free.
Stay in Abbaretz
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Traveller reviews
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Photograph: Selbymay · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons