Nathalie, a resident of the territory, takes up her pen to tell us about her favorite winter walk: by the lake of Frace.
“If you live near Aigrefeuille-d'Aunis, there is a good chance that you have already been to the Frace Lake in the good season. It is a privileged place to stroll when tourists invade the seaside. Even with a lot of people, this island of greenery has soothing virtues.
Have you dared to go there in winter in the early morning? I love coming here with my dog at the start of the day. There is absolute calm. One never meets there more than two or three fishermen or walkers. It is the ideal place to get some fresh air and do some training exercises with your doggie.
I like to start my walk in the little wood, just to the left after entering the lake. I play hide and seek and work on recall with my Border Collie. Further on, at the little bridge, I ask him to wait for me until I disappear on the other side. Well, I admit, it does not work every time! Continuing along the lake, there are several pontoons that jut above the water. Beware of the risk of diving if your dog engages in it and does not stop soon enough!
On the way back, I stop on the fitness trail near the picnic tables. It's a perfect spot to take a break, toss the ball or the stick, ask my dog to weave between the bars and jump over the obstacles. Before returning to the car park, I often branch off to the other side of the canal, towards the orchard where apple, pear and cherry trees are planted.
© Nathalie Goumard
I share some practical information with you:
- On the sign at the entrance to the lake, you will read that dogs must be kept on a leash on this natural site. In winter, I allow myself to let go while remaining vigilant.
- Feel free to put on your ugliest shoes. In periods of heavy rain, some paths are flooded or even impassable.
- Don't forget your poop bags, there are no vending machines on site.
Le Frace Lake in Aigrefeuille can also be enjoyed in summer. I really enjoy going there to eat, have a drink, fish or enjoy the entertainment. The children also have a great time between the playground, the mountain biking and rollerblading tracks, the small electric boats of the miniature harbor, the Lud'Aunis playground.
