Étang de Vioreau is a shallow inland lake in the Loire region of France, located south of Nantes. The lake features a primarily north-south orientation with southern shores facing the main water body. The surrounding landscape is agricultural, with scattered farms and small residential areas punctuating the tree-lined banks.
This spot is characterized by very light and unreliable wind conditions (6.7 knots average, 6.2% reliability), making it suitable only for light-wind specialists or as a training location during favorable weather windows. The lake's enclosed nature limits fetch and wave development, resulting in flat-water conditions. The shallow areas visible as sandbars and the proximity of buildings and trees to launch zones require careful spot selection and awareness of obstacles.
Best conditions occur with easterly or westerly winds to achieve side-shore conditions. This location suits beginners seeking flat-water practice in a sheltered environment, though the chronic wind scarcity makes regular sessions unlikely. Kiters should scout launch areas in advance and be prepared for frustratingly light conditions most days.