GR®3 Loire River trail From Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc (Ardeche) to La Baule (Loire-Atlantique)

The GR®3, also known as the Sentier de la Loire, holds the distinction of being the first officially marked long-distance hiking trail in France. It traces the course of the Loire, Europe’s last great wild river, from its source at Mont Gerbier de Jonc in Ardèche all the way to its estuary at the Porte Saint-Michel of the fortified city of Guérande, in Loire-Atlantique. In a recent development, the trail has been extended to the port city of La Baule, taking hikers through the picturesque salt marshes. Spanning a distance of 1311km, the trail meanders through 3 regions and 12 departments, offering hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the wild landscapes of the river, the diverse fauna and flora of the parks and reserves, and the vast forests. Moreover, it showcases the splendor of the numerous gardens and castles of the Loire, which have earned a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. The GR®3 is more than just a hiking trail; it’s a journey through history. As you traverse the route, you’ll come across a series of historic towns such as Orléans, Tours, Nantes, Saumur, Gien, Nevers, and Le Puy-en-Velay. The trail also offers the unique opportunity to explore the intoxicating vineyards of the Loire Valley.

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