Nantes is often seen as a built-up city, but its residents know that nature is everywhere here. As a local, I’m always looking for green escapes that are easy to reach, whether for running, reading, or simply breathing away from the noise of the tramways. Here is a concrete selection of parks and forests where greenery takes over again.

Forest

Forest Address: Rue du Château de Bel air, 44470 Carquefou Rating: 3.6/5 (5 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Website: http://carquefou.fr/ Hours: Open 24 hours a day, every day. This forested area in Carquefou offers a wilder setting than structured urban parks. It’s a discreet spot, perfect for anyone looking for absolute calm and the cool shade of trees without the crowds of Nantes’ major tourist sites.

Parc naturel de Beaulieu

Parc naturel de Beaulieu Address: Rue du Pré Salé, 44200 Nantes Rating: 4.2/5 (1723 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Hours: Open 24 hours a day, every day. Located near Hôpital Nord, this park is a true oasis of biodiversity in the heart of the city. With its winding paths and dense vegetation, it invites you to slow down and wander. The atmosphere feels very natural, almost wild, offering a complete break from the neighboring hospital environment.

Forêt De Tojotu

Forêt De Tojotu Address: 7925+3Q, 44800 Saint-Herblain Rating: 4.5/5 (2 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps It’s a little-known gem in Saint-Herblain. Although it is not well documented online, its high rating points to an experience appreciated by those who visit. Ideal for a short disconnected break, it’s an intimate spot just waiting to be discovered by local walkers.

Parc du Grand Blottereau

Parc du Grand Blottereau Address: 16 Bd Auguste Peneau, 44300 Nantes Rating: 4.6/5 (3796 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Website: https://metropole.nantes.fr/infonantes/equipement/E1020-parc-du-grand-blottereau#schedule Hours: 08:30 – 22:30 every day. This park is a must-visit in southern Nantes. Its wide lawns, pond, and rare tree species make it a prime spot for a picnic or reading. The château’s architecture adds a charming historical touch. It’s the ideal place to enjoy the sun while staying in a safe, well-maintained environment.

Parc de La Gaudinière

Parc de La Gaudinière Address: Bd Robert Schuman, 44300 Nantes Rating: 4.6/5 (2820 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Website: https://jardins.nantes.fr/N/Jardin/Parcs-Jardins/Plus/1324/Parc-de-la-Gaudiniere.asp Hours: 08:30 – 22:30 every day. Parc de La Gaudinière charms visitors with its variety of landscapes. You’ll find formal French gardens, greenhouses, and large grassy areas. It’s a lively place, appreciated by families for its play areas and by athletes for its paths. The presence of the pond brings a welcome sense of serenity at the end of the day.

Parc de Procé

Parc de Procé Address: 44 Rue des Dervallières, 44000 Nantes Rating: 4.6/5 (5001 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Website: https://metropole.nantes.fr/infonantes/equipement/E1019 Hours: 08:30 – 22:30 every day. With more than 5000 positive reviews, Parc de Procé is probably the best-loved park among Nantes residents. Located at the foot of château des Dervallières, it offers a perfect blend of wild nature and carefully maintained facilities. The paths are perfect for running, while the clearings invite you to relax. It’s a true green lung, easily accessible from the center.

Parc des Oblates

Parc des Oblates Address: Rue Philippe de Broca, 44100 Nantes Rating: 4.4/5 (1157 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Website: https://metropole.nantes.fr/lieu/parc-des-oblates Hours: 08:30 – 22:00 every day. Tucked away in the Malakoff - Saint-Donatien neighborhood, this park is a green surprise. It has a sports field and children’s play areas, making it a lively neighborhood gathering place. Despite its local popularity, it retains an intimate charm thanks to its modest size and dense vegetation.

Parc de la Gournerie

Parc de la Gournerie Address: 44800 Saint-Herblain Rating: 4.4/5 (247 reviews) Maps link: View on Maps Hours: 08:00 – 21:00 every day. In Saint-Herblain, Parc de la Gournerie offers a pleasant setting for residents in the western part of the urban area. It’s a peaceful green space, less visited by tourists, where it’s nice to take a walk. Its opening hours, closing at 21:00, encourage visits during the day or in the early evening.

Practical tips

To reach these places, the TAN network (Transports de l'Agglomération Nantaise) is efficient. Tramway 1 serves Parc de Procé (Dervallières stop) and Parc du Grand Blottereau (Ranzay stop). For Parc de La Gaudinière, get off at the Facultés stop. Buses complete the network to reach Saint-Herblain (Parc de la Gournerie and Forêt De Tojotu).

Most Nantes parks open between 8:30 and 22:30, depending on the season. It is recommended to check the specific hours on the official websites mentioned, especially in winter when the days get shorter. My local tip: avoid sunny weekends if you’re looking for solitude, and choose weekday mornings to fully enjoy the calm.