The Parc des Dryades and the Escoublac forest, the green lungs of La Baule

The town of La Baule-Escoublac grew out of its forests and pine woods. In fact, the village of Escoublac was originally buried many times. Heavy sandstorms invaded and covered the village and its hamlets.

In order to contain the sand and dunes, new plots of forest were planted in the 18th century. Since then, La Baule has remained deeply attached to its "green spaces".

La plage de La Baule vue d’en haut

- © Altitude Drone / Shutterstock
La Baule-Escoublac

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A pocket of greenery in the heart of La Baule-Escoublac

The fragrant pine forest of the Escoublac forest covers almost 50 hectares of dunes and woods. In addition, the relief is notable, with the highest dune reaching a height of 52 metres. This makes it the second highest dune on the Atlantic coast after the Dune du Pyla.

Among the different species of trees that make up the forest cover are maritime pine, alder and acacia.

Whether you're a family or a sportsman, there areplenty of activities to choose from in the forest:

  • Hiking: two trails criss-cross the forest.

  • Jogging: there's nothing better than doing your daily workout under the trees!

  • A picnic with family or friends: several picnic areas are available.

Family walk in the Dryades park in La Baule

The Dryades municipal park (inaugurated on 1st July 1923) is inspired by English-style gardens. It's a very pleasant place to stroll and visit. So pack your picnic and off you go!

Chemin dans le parc des Dryades à La Baule

- © ArnaudFR27 / Shutterstock

The Parc des Dryades is home to a wide variety of tree species. More than 20,000 trees (deciduous and coniferous) and plants grow between the palms and flowers.

In the middle of the garden is a 2,000-seat amphitheatre (seating for 1,400). This venue is used for summer concerts, particularly during the famous La Baule Jazz Festival.

In terms of activities, as well as walking, sports enthusiasts have not been forgotten, with a course specially dedicated to them. There are also play areas for the little ones.

Note that the park is accessible to people with reduced mobility. However, there is still a considerable difference in level in the garden.

Parc des Dryades is open every day from 9am to 8.30pm.

Finally, for the more sporty types, you'll find Le Sporting de La Baule Tennis Club to the south of the park. Here you'll find no fewer than 13 clay courts (6 of which are covered) from September to June. So grab your rackets!

Where to stay near the Escoublac forest and the Parc des Dryades?

À l'Ombre des Pins welcomes you just a few steps from the Parc des Dryades! Here you'll find comfort and a warm welcome, all in a renovated house.

The guest house rooms are equipped with a kettle (coffee machine) and flat-screen TV. They also have a private bathroom and terrace.

The homemade breakfast served in the communal dining room is pantagruesome!

You can also borrow bicycles (subject to availability).

À l'Ombre des Pins also offers private parking.

In the shade of the pines La Baule-Escoublac
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In the shade of the pines

The bed and breakfast À l'Ombre des Pins welcomes you to La Baule, just a stone's throw from the Parc des Dryades.
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Practical information

When should you visit La Baule's Escoublac Forest and Parc des Dryades?

Depending on the season, the atmosphere is very different. In summer, the long, sunny days are ideal for outdoor activities and observing nature.

In autumn, the colours explode, and the trees offer their orange and golden leaves to visitors and walkers. In winter (never harsh here), some sunny days are ideal for a walk in nature.

Spring heralds the return of fine weather, the park is bursting with colourful flowers and the forest is full of life.

How do I get to the Escoublac forest and the Parc des Dryades in La Baule?

Both sites are accessible by bus via the Lila Presqu'île transport network. All you need to do is take Line 20 La Baule-Escoublac Est.

To get to the Escoublac forest, get off at the La Forêt stop.

Finally, for the Parc des Dryades, located between La Baule town centre and the La Baule-les-Pins district. You can choose between the Tennis Sporting and Palmiers annexes de la Mairie stops.

La Baule un cadre de rêve animé toute l’année

- © Altitude Drone / Shutterstock

Where can I park near the Escoublac forest and the Parc des Dryades in La Baule?

If you choose to come by car, you can park in the designated car parks. They are free, but in season they fill up quickly (remember to get there early).

by Jude JONES
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La Baule-Escoublac
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