As a Nantes resident, I know the city offers much more than a simple jog along the banks of the Erdre. To mix things up and find routes suited to every type of training, you need to explore its historic parks and modern green spaces. This guide lists specific places to run, based on real data and local experience.

Parc du Grand Blottereau

Parc du Grand Blottereau Address: 16 Bd Auguste Peneau, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (3796 reviews) View on Maps This park is a Nantes institution. The paths are wide and well maintained, ideal for easy runs or warm-ups. The atmosphere is often family-friendly, especially at the end of the day.

Parc de La Gaudinière

Parc de La Gaudinière Address: Bd Robert Schuman, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (2820 reviews) View on Maps Located near the CHU, this park offers a peaceful green setting. The trails are usable year-round. It is a good choice for anyone looking for a quiet space away from the bustle of the city center.

Parc de Procé

Parc de Procé Address: 44 Rue des Dervallières, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (5001 reviews) View on Maps This is probably my personal favorite. With its ponds and dense vegetation, you feel as if you are deep in the forest. The trails are varied, with gentle elevation changes that are perfect for strengthening your legs.

Parc des Oblates

Parc des Oblates Address: Rue Philippe de Broca, 44100 Nantes Google rating: 4.4/5 (1157 reviews) View on Maps A small hidden gem in the Malakoff neighborhood. Less well known than the major parks, it nevertheless offers paths that are perfect for short speed sessions. Its relative seclusion makes it easier to focus on your breathing.

Parc Floral de la Beaujoire

Parc Floral de la Beaujoire Address: 344 Rte de Saint-Joseph, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (2459 reviews) View on Maps Close to the stadium, this park has very pleasant open spaces. The main paths are paved, which is perfect for runners looking for a stable, fast surface. Ideal after a session at the Stadium.

Jardin Extraordinaire

Jardin Extraordinaire Address: 1 Rue Joseph Cholet, 44100 Nantes Google rating: 4.4/5 (4475 reviews) View on Maps Although designed as a botanical garden, its paths allow for brisk walking or a slow jog. The setting is unique, with artistic installations punctuating the run. Watch out for earlier closing times than in the other parks.

Parc Floral la Roseraie

Parc Floral la Roseraie Address: Rte de Saint-Joseph, 44300 Nantes Google rating: 4.6/5 (2078 reviews) View on Maps Adjacent to Parc Floral, la Roseraie offers a more intimate environment. The paths are lined with flowers, making the run visually pleasing. It is a popular place for active recovery sessions thanks to its serene atmosphere.

Île de Versailles

Île de Versailles Address: Quai de Versailles, 44000 Nantes Google rating: 4.5/5 (8582 reviews) View on Maps This is the must-run spot for Nantes locals. The island forms a natural loop around the Erdre. The riverbanks offer a flat, uninterrupted route, perfect for long distances. The view over the water is motivating, even in gray weather.

In Practice

To get to these places, public transport (Tan) is efficient. Tramway 1 serves la Gaudinière and Procé, while Bus C3 or C6 gets you close to Grand Blottereau. Île de Versailles is accessible via Tramway 2 (Louis Castex stop).

Opening hours vary slightly: most parks close between 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. depending on the season, except Jardin Extraordinaire, which closes at 8:00 p.m. It is best to check the exact time using the links provided before heading out, especially in winter. My local tip: avoid weekend mornings at Île de Versailles if you are looking for solitude; choose weekday slots after 6 p.m. instead.