Are you a nature-lover? Visit Parc des Ardoisières!
Just a stone's throw from Angers, you can explore this former slate quarry, where nature now reigns supreme. Stroll through this landscape where the vegetation blends powerfully with the black of the stone and the azure of the sky.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Parc des Ardoisières in the town of Trélazé in the center of the Loire Valley.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Parc des Ardoisières worthwhile?
Yes, the Parc des Ardoisières is well worth a visit. Located just a few kilometers from the beautiful city of Angers, in the heart of the Loire Valley castles, this natural area will transport you back to the centuries-old know-how of slate quarrying. We enjoyed exploring this astonishing backdrop of rugged terrain and arid vegetation. One of the most beautiful parks and gardens in the Loire!
What you can see
A signposted route
You can discover the park by following a signposted path that winds through wilderness.
An arid landscape
We admired the superb landscape, with its rugged hills and dry vegetation.
A slate quarry
Along the way, you'll discover the immensity of this slate quarry. Admire the dark, chiselled stone that was once carved by man.
Vintage carts
Learn about slate transportation as you contemplate the ancient red carts contrasting with the black of the heavy stones.
Proud slate menhirs
A few steps away, we gazed up at tall slate menhirs, standing proudly in the sky, echoes of the human strength of the past.
Old installations
Discover a small building made entirely of slate, surrounded by facilities once used for transporting and cutting stone.
A slate splitter
We were touched by the life-size sculpture of a slate splitter, which sketches the repetitive gestures of ancient stonecutters.
A sculpture workshop
Before you leave, why not take a trip to Atelier Vauvert? You can discover the work of local sculptors and talk with artists. The workshop is open at weekends.
Parc des Ardoisières in Maine-et-Loire: how to get there
Where is the park?
- In the commune of Trélazé
- From Angers: 15 minutes by car from the city center
- 30min by bike
- Near Musée de l'Ardoise and Parc de Pignerolle
Access by car and parking
The site is easily accessible by car. There's plenty of parking at the entrance to the park. Then continue on foot or by bike!
Travelling by bike and touring the châteaux of the Loire Valley? Read our article on the subject!
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Public transport access
There is a bus network in the area, but you'll be limited in terms of times and possibilities for getting to Trélazé. Find out more here. We recommend you come by car or bike. Would you like to rent a car in the region? Read our dedicated article.
Visiting difficulties
The park boasts pleasantly landscaped trails, but the ground can be difficult in places. Bring good walking shoes to complete the tour.
DISCOVER Angers
- Things to do in Angers
- Where to sleep in Angers: best hotels
- Where to eat in Angers: best restaurants
- Rent a car in Angers
- Visit the Château d'Angers
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Angers - coming soon
- Château de Brissac
- Terra Botanica
- Best castles around Angers
- Most beautiful villages around Angers
Tips for visiting Parc des Ardoisières
Schedules and prices
The park is surrounded by nature. It's free to enter and open all year round.
How long
Allow between 30min and 1h to cover the park's circuit.
Best moment
The site is very busy in summer. At this time of year, we advise you to come in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. During the rest of the year, the park is less crowded and visits are more exclusive!
Direction of visit
Just as we did, follow the trail and the coloured markers that punctuate it. You'll gradually sink into an increasingly arid and wild landscape. Along the way, you'll come across old mining installations and the park's large lake.
Visiting with children
The park is great for families to explore. Children will have plenty of room to invent great outdoor games!
Eating out
There are no restaurants on site, but you're welcome to picnic in the park.
It's just a stone's throw from Angers, which has an abundance of fine restaurants. Discover our selection of the city's best restaurants (coming soon)!
Hotels
You'll find the right hotel in Angers, just a few minutes from the Parc des Ardoisières. Take a look at our list and let yourself be tempted!
WHERE TO STAY IN Angers
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown, to enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
Hôtel L'Oisellerie - see photos and availability
Hotel 21, Foch - prices, pictures and availability
In the surrounding countryside, for greater peace and quiet
Hotel Château des Forges - see photos and availability
HE MADE THE TRIP Manu
