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Parks #7 in Nantes

Parc de Procé

4.6 · 4,957 reviews
A serene, English-style garden retreat
Parc de Procé, 44 Rue des Dervallières, 44000 Nantes, France
Interesting facts
1

The park contains a notable collection of trees, including a Ginkgo biloba and a cedar of Lebanon planted shortly after the park's opening.

2

The Chézine River, which runs through the park, was partially diverted and landscaped to create the park's signature water features.

3

The manor house was constructed in 1789 and represents the transitional architecture between the late Enlightenment and the French Revolution.

4

The park was designed to imitate the irregular, naturalistic layouts of English Romantic gardens, contrasting with the geometric style of traditional French gardens.

5

It hosts an annual outdoor art exhibition known as 'Le Voyage à Nantes' during the summer months.

Overview

Parc de Procé is an English-style landscaped park covering approximately 12 hectares in the northwest of Nantes. The central feature is an 18th-century manor house, currently repurposed as a municipal cultural space. The grounds include a botanical collection featuring rare species such as a 20-meter high Sequoiadendron giganteum and a significant collection of magnolias. The park is bisected by the Chézine River, which feeds a series of decorative ponds. A dedicated children's play area and a carousel are located near the park’s main entrance. The terrain is notably sloped, requiring navigation of winding gravel paths that offer views over the valley. It serves as a significant biological corridor for local urban wildlife in the Nantes area. The park was established in the late 19th century through the acquisition of the Procé manor estate by the city.

Photo spot

The bridge crossing the Chézine River looking back toward the 18th-century manor.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park features a significant elevation gain throughout its winding trails.

Visit the small stream area in the lower section for a quieter experience away from the main playground.

Bring a picnic, as the lawn areas are open to visitors and provide ample shade under mature trees.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk across the pond edges or climb on the historical manor walls.

Etiquette

Cyclists must remain on designated paths; dogs are permitted on leashes.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for the magnolia bloom or early autumn for the changing foliage.
Address
Parc de Procé, 44 Rue des Dervallières, 44000 Nantes, France
47.223, -1.582
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasExtensive mature tree canopy and numerous wooden benches throughout the valley
Botanical featuresCollection of giant Sequoias and historic magnolia trees

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for the magnolia bloom or early autumn for the changing foliage..

The bridge crossing the Chézine River looking back toward the 18th-century manor.

Close by you'll find Les Machines de l'Île, Château des ducs de Bretagne, Botanical Garden.