Nozay: Slate History and Outdoor Activities

There are several themes to explore during a stay in Nozay: Pierre Bleue, historic crosses and other named sites, as well as outdoor activities. These highlights differ in focus: geology and landscape sit alongside the restoration and interpretation of crosses, and sporting activities alongside water sports. If you are looking for a hotel in Nozay, it helps to first consider which themes you want to shape your stay.

Slate, Quarry, and Landscape

Pierre Bleue de Nozay is a bluish slate. Compared with ordinary slate, it was subjected to less pressure and therefore has a softer grain. Its color and grain offer two specific clues for identifying the rock.

The Sentier des manoirs tells the story of slate, a rock characteristic of the region that has shaped the landscape of Nozay. The trail thus adds a historical and landscape context to the description of the material’s properties. If you are interested in the stone’s regional significance, this theme connects geology with the history of the landscape.

The Carrière du Parc is a former quarry for Pierre Bleue and can be visited free of charge from Friday to Sunday. It adds a former extraction site to the slate theme. Access arrangements may vary by season, so check the visitor information before your visit.

Crosses and Other Sites

Of the 43 crosses still standing in Nozay, 40 were restored by José Teffo in 2019. The Les Croix de Nozay trail has 25 information panels at particularly interesting crosses. This brings together the history of the restoration and information about individual crosses along the route.

The two themed trails have different focuses: the Sentier des manoirs tells the story of slate and its influence on the landscape; Les Croix de Nozay provides information at particularly interesting crosses. The Menhir de Couëbrac is located in Nozay, in the Lande de l'Etang Neuf.

Outdoor and Water Activities

La Ville-au-Chef offers around twenty freely accessible orienteering markers, a permanent mountain biking course, and a natural slate climbing wall. Orienteering, mountain biking, and climbing are different ways to spend time outdoors. The number of orienteering markers is approximate; the permanent status applies to the mountain biking course.

The Jean Guyon leisure center offers wakeboarding, water skiing, and kneeboarding. The range of activities and seasonal opening arrangements may change. Check which activities are available during your stay before visiting.

The leisure center also has three fishing ponds, providing a natural setting for a relaxing break. Facilities and access may also change, so plan your visit based on the latest information.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, Le Pallet, Arthon-En-Retz, Trignac, Le Pouliguen, Maisdon-Sur-Sèvre, Petit-Auverné, Asserac

For the main travel overview: Loire-Atlantique.