The mag of tourist offices in Angers Val de Loire by Angers Val de Loire

ANGERS & ITS REGION DU LOIR EN ANJOU TOURIST OFFICE

Located at the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angers Loire district council and the intercommunity councils of Loire Aubance, Loire-Authion Valley and Loir all work together in the field of tourism. ANGERS LOIRE MÉTROPOLE TOURIST OFFICE

BRISSAC-LOIRE AUBANCE TOURIST OFFICE

SOME KEY FACTS 68

cities, town & villages

Centres of competitiveness

Over 300 000

operating globally : Végépolys

inhabitants

2nd largest economic centre 2

LOIRE-AUTHION TOURIST OFFICE

of the Pays de la Loire et 3rd largest in Western France

A centre for higher education and research : 2 universities, engineering schools and research center

Angers, the 3rd largest city in Western France, after Nantes and Rennes

Angers Loire Métropole Tourist Office & Booking Office

Brissac-Loire Aubance Tourist Office

Loire-Authion Tourist Office

Le Loir en Anjou Tourist Office

7 place Kennedy BP 15157 49051 Angers CEDEX 02

8 place de la République 49320 Brissac-Quincé

Place du Port Charles Sigogne 49250 Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire

14 bis, rue Henri Régnier 49140 Seiches-sur-le-Loir

J+33 (0)2 41 91 21 50

J+33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

J+33 (0)2 41 60 46 78 n+33 (0)6 79 98 44 79

(Société d’Économie Mixte Locale IM 049100006)

J+33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

Çaccueil@angersloiretourisme.com

Çaccueil@ot-brissac-loire-aubance.fr

Çinfo@ot-loire-authion.fr

• More information on opening hours on p. 58

STAY CONNECTED !

Çtourismeduloir.enanjou@gmail.com

IN BRIEF : DESTINATION ANGERS

ANGERS, 1ST AMONG ALL FRENCH CITIES FOR QUALITY OF LIVING AND LIFE.* Life in Angers is good! And it's not just us who say so! Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the gateway to Western France, the 3rd largest city after Nantes and Rennes and conveniently situated just 90 minutes from Paris by TGV. Angers is surprising too! It manages skilfully to combine the dynamism of modern day living alongside its incredible wealth of art, culture and heritage. Premier amongst French cities, it has also retained its accolade as being the greenest city in France** and with a population of 150,000 inhabitants it ranks 16th in the national listing of urban friendly cities.

Angers is full of fun and life with festivals, street theatre and many other events that you would expect from a popular cultural, historic and environment-friendly destination. > in the world art and culture, you’ll find Angers full of festivals, special events, exhibitions and museums

> in a world going green, Terra Botanica is Europe’s first themed park dedicated to the life of plants and nature. The city’s parks, open green spaces, formal gardens and riverbank promenades all help to underscore its green credentials.

And that's not all! In the city's immediate vicinity, there a numerous impressive sites: Châteaux and manor houses; the surrounding areas filled with famous vineyards; within the city, two of the most well known liqueur distilleries in the world and then, of course, the riverscape of the mighty Loire and its tributaries. Heritage plays a big part in the life of Angers and there are some astonishing permanent exhibitions including the ‘Tapestry of the Apocalypse’, the largest known medieval tapestry in the world. 04

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

* l’Express rankings, September 2014 ** UNEP ranking, February 2014

some facts and figures 1st horticultural region of France 3rd most important wine region of France 1+ million tourists a year 2 universities & 14 colleges 35 000 students enrolled each year and living in Angers

48 % of the population is under 30 years 3000 business events

Angers has it all, with 35,000 college and university students, the city buzzes with activity, and yet there’s tranquillity and lots of open space (actually 51 m2 per capita). All of this helps Angers to hold the top spot amongst French cities, when it comes to quality of living.

ANGERS, THE GREEN CAPITAL Angers has a diversified economy that mixes horticulture with electronics and health with tourism. It is the 3rd most important wine region in France for AOC appellations and, continuing the theme, its plant research co-operative, Végépolys, has further extended the area’s reputation for innovation in horticulture..

CONTENTS

WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS AND ITS REGION Destination Angers in the Val de Loire .................................................... 6 Urban escapade in Angers ................................................................................... 8 Escapade in the vineyards of the Aubance ........................................ 13 Escapade along the Loire ..................................................................................... 14 A countryside escapade between Loir & forest ............................. 15 Châteaux & castles ..................................................................................................... 16

SAVOIR-FAIRE MADE IN ANGERS Centres of competitiveness and excellence ...................................... 20 Success Story ................................................................................................................... 23 Technical museums ................................................................................................... 24 Slate, the "blue gold" of Angers .................................................................... 25

FRESHWATER ESCAPADES The Loire Valley, majestic and mysterious ......................................... 26 Typical villages and islands of the Loire ................................................ 28 Exceptional countryside ........................................................................................ 30 Bon voyage on the water, river cruises and activities .............. 3 1

GREEN EXPLORING The Loire by bike & the Layon-Aubance, Loire-Authion circuits ... 32 Walks ....................................................................................................................................... 34 Discovery trails ............................................................................................................... 35 Golf courses ....................................................................................................................... 35

ANJOU VINEYARDS Anjou, at the heart of the Loire Valley ................................................... 36 Escapade in the vineyards ................................................................................... 38 Food fit for Kings ......................................................................................................... 41

THE PLANT ODYSSEY Anjou, so green .............................................................................................................. 42 Terra Botanica .................................................................................................................. 44 Parks, gardens and forests ................................................................................ 45

KID’S SPECIAL ................................................................................................................. 48 AROUND ANGERS ...................................................................................................... 53 CULTURAL DIARY ........................................................................................................ 54

VISITOR INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................................................................. 58 > Contact details and opening hours of the tourist offices > Markets > Museums and unmissable sites > Châteaux & Castles > Vineyards and wine growing > Parks, gardens, nature reserves > Golf courses > Water-based activities/swimming sites/fishing > Theme and leisure parks > Educational farms

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

The majestic waters of the Loire combining with its Anjou tributaries creates a landscape of aesthetic harmony and gives rise to a city renowned for it legendary gentleness.

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

Destination ANGERS… “A corner of the Amazon or of Louisiana lay in wait there, barely a few hundred metres long, but enough to fire the imagination” (translated from French writer & poet Julien Gracq, 1910 - 2007).

Château de Brissac

There is perhaps no better tribute to the Loire Valley, listed since 2000 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; no better praise for the Basses Vallées Angevines (listed by Natura 2000) where the Loir, Sarthe and Mayenne rivers meet the mighty and majestic Loire. Much of this region is part of the Loire-AnjouTouraine regional park that was created in 1996. Climate and geology have helped shape the Anjou into one of France's principal agricultural regions and the country's first for horticulture. As you travel around the alluvial plains of Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire, the Loire-Authion and Loir valleys, a curious visitor will come across vast greenhouses, alignments of plants, pots, and orchards that bring a colourful geometry to the area.

Banks of the Loire - La Bohalle

The region also celebrates it position as the third most important wine region in France. Colourful and with distinct flavours, the AOC Savennières, Coteaux de l’Aubance and Anjou-Villages Brissac are some of the most prestigious appellations of the Loire vineyards, and reveal some of the secrets of the legendary Anjou gentleness and the passion of the wine growers whose passionate toil has brought fame and fortune to the area. Angers, the capital of Anjou and home of Cointreau, is a cosmopolitan city, alive with students and culture. It is listed as a city of ‘art and history’ with its impressive château and its duo-tone towers; its amazing ‘Tapestry of the Apocalypse’ (the largest medieval weaving in the world) and the collegiate church of Saint- Martin (one of the best preserved Carolingian buildings in France).

Banks of the Loir

week-end idea

DISCOVER ANGERS…

Pass, With your 24-hour or 48-hour City rs, explore the unmissable sites of Ange at and experience firsthand its art of living your own pace. hotel 2 days/1 night in a 2**, 3*** or 4**** from 45€ per person.

With its fountains, pretty squares, half-timbered houses and limestone facades, life is lived to the rhythm where commerce is interwoven with parks and gardens dotted throughout the city. With limestone escarpments, vines and slate, rivers and preserved villages, Angers Loire Valley is a land of discovery that reveals its secrets, its gentleness and its assured pleasures.

Info and booking : www.angersloiretourisme.com +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

Urban escapade IN ANGERS 1

s an extension to your visit to the A castle, take the PROMENADE DU BOUT DU MONDE giving panoramic views of the river Maine and the historic district of la Doutre.

The emblem of the city is undoubtedly the CHÂTEAU d’ANGERS, dominating the city landscape with its 17 massive duotone towers. It has several formal gardens and is home to the exhibit ‘Tapestry of the Apocalypse’, the largest known medieval tapestry in the world..

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L a CATHÉDRALE SAINT MAURICE is easily identifiable with its slender silhouette and towers reaching to the sky. Its Renaissance stained glass windows dominate this Angevin Gothic structure. Of particular note is the nave sitting beneath the high vaulted columns and Gothic ceiling. It is also a treasure trove of religious tapestries, silverware and the famous altarpiece of the Crucifixion (known as the Beaussant altarpiece).

L A PLACE SAINT CROIX is the ancient heart of Angers; it is one of the oldest commercial centres in the city. This pretty square is lined with historic houses including la Maison d’Adam, built in the 1500s, and a photographer’s dream.

A city of art and history, Angers has many stories to tell. You will love the capital of Anjou! 5

A PLACE DU RALLIEMENT is now the L commercial heart of the city, hosting several major retailers such as ‘Galeries Lafayette’. Here, there are numerous bars and restaurants overlooking the square and the Grand Theatre, one of the city’s great landmarks. The square is now car-free (since 2011), following the completion of the city’s tramway system. > Nearby: le jardin du Mail. See map P. 69

Angers : history at a glance uction Early 13th century : Completion of constr of the cathedral and 1232-1240 : Construction of the castlethat the fortif ied enclo sure would later become Angers of the 1375 : Commission of the tapestry Apocalypse city’s 1409 : Birth of King René of Anjou, the founding father 1475 : Creation of the town of Angers s, 1598 : Henry IV prepares the Edict of Nante ending the religious wars uration 1848 : The arrival of the train. Inaug of the line Tours-Angers-Paris the 1875 : M onsig nor Frepp el foun ded catholic university of Angers rs 1970 : Creation of the University of Ange

SURPRISE AROUND A E V E RY CO R N E R , R u e Toussaint, rue des Lices, rue Lenepveu, rue Saint Laud and Boulevard Foch, all pretty and busy streets adding to the atmosphere of the city, as well as revealing some of its hidden jewels.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

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L A CALE DE LA SAVATTE and the QUAI DES CARMES with its terraces, overlook the river and beyond that the walls and towers of the castle. LE QUAI is a creative space bringing together many differing artists and audiences. >â&#x20AC;ŻNearby, le parc Balzac, le parc de la Garenne et les parcs St-Nicolas. See map p. 69

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

LE QUARTIER DE LA DOUTRE with its timber framed houses and mansions that are so typical of the area and track the vibrancy of the city over many centuries. Numerous green spaces alongside the river enhance its tranquillity.

LE PONT DE VERDUN is the oldest bridge in Angers and was once lined with shops and stalls reaching back to the historic quarter of la Doutre.

L’HÔTEL DES PÉNITENTES, At one time a hospice and then a prison, this landmark building is one the city's most beautiful monuments with its restored facades, watchtowers and Gothic spiral staircase.

L’ÉGLISE DE LA TRINITÉ with its Plantagenet influenced styling and, at its side, l’Abbaye du Ronceray, that is now the home of the National School of Arts and Crafts.

THE MUSEUMS OF ANGERS MUSÉE JEAN LURÇAT ET DE LA TAPISSERIE CONTEMPORAINE Since 1967, l’hôpital St-Jean has housed the “Chant du Monde” by Jean Lurçat. This important work helps to bring together works of textile art reflecting culture from the 1950s through to today. From 23 May - 31 October, it is presenting three major public collections (MaM, FNAC and museums of Angers) giving a chronological and informative journey through the history of tapestry and contemporary textile. MUSÉE DES BEAUX-ARTS (MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS) 3 000 m2 of exhibition space including 2 permanent exhibits: “Fine Arts” (paintings and sculptures from 14th century to the present day) and “History of Angers” (archaeological and Neolithic art through to today). Exhibitions for 2015: “Curiosité(s): un certain goût pour l’Ailleurs. Collectionneurs angevins du XIXe siècle” (19th Century Curiosities) 14 March - 19 July 2015. “La Fabrique de l’œuvre: dessins des musées d’Angers” (The fabric of work) 17 October 2015 - 31 January 2016.

Witness of the history and influence of Anjou

GALERIE DAVID D’ANGERS Since 1984, the restored abbey of Toussaint (All Saints) has exhibited the works of sculptor David d’Angers. MUSÉUM DES SCIENCES NATURELLES An extraordinary collection of fossils and artefacts tracing the evolution of man alongside the ever-evolving natural world.

• More information: www.collegiale-saint-martin.fr MUSÉE DU GÉNIE (ENGINEERING MUSEUM) The museum explores the history of civil and military engineering through the ages.

Photo JP Campion

• More information: www.musees.angers.fr LA COLLÉGIALE ST MARTIN One of the best-preserved examples of Carolingian architecture in France, it also holds both permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. This year’s exhibitions include: “Résonances St Martin” (baroque concerts / jazz) March – July • “Les Nuits de la Collégiale” (dramatised visits) July & August • “ Exposition sur la vigne et le vin ” (vine and wine) September – January 2016 • plus plenty of children’s activities…

The Saint Martin’s Collegiate Church, a major historic site, offers yearly cultural, pedagogic and touristic activities.

www.collegiale-saint-martin.fr

23 rue Saint-Martin - Angers - 02 41 81 16 00

• Visitor information p. 59-60

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

Visit Angers AT YOUR PACE VISIT ANGERS THE GEOCACHING WAY Fun for all the family and your friends... best of all, it’s totally discreet! All you need is a route planner, a GPS-enabled device (Smartphone or hiking /hand-held GPS) with a geocaching app, plus a little bit of gumption and... hey presto!.. you’re off for stroll in Angers with the chance of finding some hidden ‘treasure’! • Route planners available from the Tourist Office or download at www.angersloiretourisme.com/en

ACCESS FOR ALL At a gentle pace: For families with young children or strollers and those with mobility difficulties just follow the bronze plaques set into the pavement. There are information panels along the route and some multi-media exhibitions to illustrate your tour. • You can find more information about these tours and accessibility at www.angersloiretourisme.com and www.accessible.net

insider tips GREETERS ? YET ANOTHER WAY TO EXPLORE THE CITY

lots of On foot, by bike, or tram, there are and great ways to explore Angers. Come share meet locals and volunteers who will gs their love of Angers and its surroundin own with you, just as they would with their friends. you Make an appointment and let us greet on your next trip to Angers! • More information at http://angersgreeters.free.fr

GIFT IDEAS FROM THE TOURIST OFFICE

source The Tourist Office is a great place to y and those gifts you want to buy for famil shows friends. You can also get tickets to breaks and events, details about weekend will and themed stays. The welcome team give be happy to talk through your ideas and you an information-packed brochure.

If you do not have a GPS-enabled device, you can borrow an iPad from the Tourist office but you must reserve it in advance.

THE LITTLE TOURIST TRAIN a guided tour of 45 min !

we love it !

Come and discover the city of Angers in an original and relaxing way, aboard the little tourist train, which departs from Place Kennedy.

A GUIDE TO ANGERS - ART & HISTORY

April to Oct. Information: +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

City Pass www.pourquipourquoi.fr - Crédit

photo : Angers Loire Tourisme -

Fotolia©

Angers Val de Loire

See more, spend less!

Free admission to more than 20 sites

More than 40 partners offering discounts Available in Tourist Office of Angers

and area

02 41 23 50 00 www.angersloiretourisme.com

24h/14 € 48h/22 € 72h/ 29 €

(Le Guide Angers Ville d’art et d’histoire). A comprehensive and illustrated city guide to discover Angers history and heritage through 5 walking routes. • On sale for 12€ in bookshops and tourist office.

insider tips HUTS CIRCULAR TOUR OF THE VINEYARD réVauch in ards viney the gst amon ing Stroll huts tien, you will come across vineyard rly forme dotted here and there that were which used as shelters for winegrowers and . are now used by walkers along this route BLAISON-GOHIER, PETITE CITÉ DE CARACTÈRE A charming village that has retai ned its rich archi tectu ral herit age developed over 15 centu ries. Follo w its heritage trail to explore it further. FUN FOR ALL AT THE PARC DE LOISIRS DE L’ÉTANG ncé, 20 minutes from Angers, in Brissac-Qui with enjoy an unforgettable family day out: vised pedalos, mini-golf, water slide, super swimming... and games for all ages. • More information p. 48

Escapade IN THE VINEYARDS OF THE AUBANCE On the outskirts of Angers, to south, you will find a big surprise! Here the Loire Aubance region shows-off some of its typical Anjou characteristics, making it a popular place to visit. Flanked by the majestic Loire to the north, the Aubance is a little river that winds it way through some of the most renowned vineyards that benefit from a geology of blue slate and creamy white limestone. This is a dreamy location for a stay and you will find some great accommodation to suit all preferences.

at the heart of heritage NNE PRIEURÉ DE SAINT-RÉMY-LA-VARE the near yard, court d close At the end of a whose church, is a surprising dwelling times lower portions date from medieval ce. and higher portions from the Renaissan r BeneFounded in 929, the edifice is a forme -Aubin dictine Priory attached to the Saint rkable rema its ver Disco rs. Ange in y Abbe nesque and varied features : the Roma th ry), frescoes in the chapter house (12 centu al the priory dwelling with its monument ce fireplace sculpted and coloured Renaissan th th ries). and the priory church (10 to 14 centu

Enjoy a pleasant and fun-packed stay with friends or family exploring the banks of the Loire, walking through the vineyards and spending time soaking-up the culture and history of the pretty limestone villages. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a great place to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback with lots of way marked foot and cycle trails and bridleways. Stroll through characteristic and charming villages full of flowers and take time to learn more about them with the audio guides Baladoo. (available from the Brissac-Loire Aubance Tourist Information Centre, and downloadable (MP3) from www.angersloiretourisme.com)

• Visitor information p. 60

spotlight LA GALERIE DE L’AUBANCE region, Aubance Gallery Located in the heart of this famous wine of different forms of on is a unique space for the presentati res works of sculpture, contemporary art in the Anjou. It featu of weaving, printing ples paintings and photos as well as exam or unusual in artistic new and video…In fact anything that is expression! Brissac-Loire-Aubance • More information from the Tourist Office or www.art-aubance.org

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

at the heart of heritage

Escapade ON THE BANKS OF THE LOIRE Along the banks of the Loire between Angers and Saumur, the Loire-Authion Valley invites you to take an exceptional walk through some breathtaking scenery, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

g Churches grouped under the “Welcomin visitors churches” stamp open their doors to you to from April to November and invite ectural discover their historical and archit interest. th d-glass > Andard church: 16 century staine s, windows, listed as Historical Monument th 13 the h: churc ion > B rain- sur-l ’Auth l, chape e c-styl gothi t century Plantagene th oyant > Corné church: the 13 century flamb gothic porch organ > La Ménitré church: a magnificent restored in 2007, > St-Mathurin-sur-Loire church: and 19th century neo-Greek style plan de la architecture. Don’t miss: the porte h Paix (Peace Gate), by the artist Josep Grau Garriga.

Over 20km of riverbanks from La Daguenière to La Ménitré, explore villages whose heritage is a mix of horticulture and river commerce, and an ecosystem of high ecological value recognised by its inclusion on national and international lists. Take the grande Levée (the great dyke of Anjou), which sits high overlooking the Loire. Built in the 12th century by Henri II Plantagenet, it was a vast undertaking for the period. It was designed to enable the farming of inland areas and the construction of villages along the flood plain. Throughout the walk you will see typical houses and religious buildings with the mighty river as their backdrop. In the 18th century, the Loire was a busy shipping channel transporting all types of goods up and down the river. Nowhere is this more evident than when you visit the old river ports of la Daguenière, St-Mathurin-sur-Loire and La Ménitré. Commerce on the river shaped the lives of those who lived on it riverbanks. Nowadays, the commerce has gone and has been replaced by futreaux, toues and plates - traditional boats with a different cargo; tourists and anglers. The river also influenced the land along its course; the rich alluvium is ideal for horticulture, creating a different landscape in the low-lying areas of the river Authion (at Brain-sur-l’Authion, Andard and Corné). Here you can take a nature walk amongst the flowers that bring a breathtaking patchwork of colour to this landscape. In the Loire-Authion Valley, a visit to the Maison de Loire en Anjou will give you a better understanding of the importance of the river to the economy of the region. There are guided tours aboard a traditional river cruiser; hiking and cycle trails and the Loire à Vélo cycle path running the length of the majestic river. To complement this there is a new cycle circuit running from St-Mathurin-sur-Loire and La Daguenière.

snapshot Extend your visit on foot, by bike or by car! Ask for the guide : “Circuits Découverte de St-Mathurin-sur-Loire et La Ménitré”, circular tours on the banks of the Loire and the Loire-Authion valley and the Loire à Vélo routes. • Available from the LoireAuthion Tourist Office.

spotlight LA MAISON DE LOIRE EN ANJOU ire, To be found at Saint-Mathurin-sur-Lo It looks this is one of those ‘must do’ visits. life at the three dimensions of the river: d the along its banks; the men who worke al flora, river and the river itself with its natur fauna and wildlife. • More information p. 29 RE LE BATEAU PROMENADE LOIRE DE LUMIÈ guided A boat ride not to be missed, a 60 min rivers. tour of one of Europe’s most interesting 31 p. 30ation • More inform

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

insider tips ferry From 1st April to 31 October, take the oir that links the banks of Seiches-sur-le-L r-leto Montreuil and explore Seiches-su and Loir, Montreuil, Tiercé, Baracé, Huillé Lézigné by bike. Anjou • More information from the Loir en Tourist Office.

Escapade BETWEEN LOIR & FOREST Before descending towards the Loir river, visitors come across Montreuil-sur-Loir, with its main street lined with well-preserved 16th and 17th century houses; the church and its avenue of lime trees and the neo-Gothic style château built by the famous architect Hodé. At the port, you can take the ferry across the Loir and admire in passing the view over the hillside, the weir and the water mill. The ferry docks alongside meadows lining the forests of Boudré in a loop of the Loir. Follow the path to the hippodrome in the direction of Prignes. The Boudré forest is mostly populated with pine trees but the variety of flora and fauna is very rich. Lakes formed by the former quarries make this site an interesting place for a walk and a great place to take a few wildlife photos. The route to Huillé and Lézigné does not run alongside the Loir, but the river is never far away. In the centre of Lézigné, stop in the shady square with its church and solid bell-tower, and the house where the stage director Patrice Chéreau was born. Continuing along the route to Huillé, take the bridge standing high over the Loir. The hill leading to the village centre is steep but beautiful! Huddled around its church, the village appears to be immune to the passage of time with its narrow streets, its washhouse (lavoir) and its 15th to 17th century houses... Then head out towards Durtal, to see the castle and manor houses that add authenticity and class to the village

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WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

Château de Villevêque

Château du Plessis Macé

Château de Vaux Château de Baugé

Angers Château de Serrant

Château de Pignerolle Les Ponts de Cé

St-Mathurinsur-Loire

Bouchemaine

Savennières

Ile de Béhuard

Chalonnes-sur-Loire

Château de Brissac Lay

Château de Montgeoffroy

Le Thoureil

Luyne

Au th ion

Langeais

ChênehutteTrèves-Cunault

Saumur Chouzé-sur-Loire Montsoreau

Principaux sites et monuments protégés

Chinon

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par Périmètre inscrit au patrimoine Mondial l’UNESCO commun Périmètre inscrit au patrimoine mondial u-Touraine au Parc Naturel Régional Loire-Anjo

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Vienne

Seuilly

Dive

Fontevraud l’Abbaye

LE CHÂTEAU FORTERESSE D’ANGERS, IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF KING RENÉ Construction began in 1232, commissioned on the orders of the Regent to the Kingdom of France, Blanche de Castille, who was the mother of Louis IX (the future Saint Louis) at the time when the great citadel of Angers needed to create an impenetrable fortification against the incessant Breton invasions. Even today and no matter how you approach it: from the river, down wide tree-lined avenues or along the maze of cobbled streets, the long windowless walls accentuated by powerful duo-tone towers pierced with arrow slits and embrasures are immediately striking and display the great architectural dominance and majesty of this medieval castle.

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Along its 1 km circumference, the ramparts feature 17 towers reaching towards the sky; built of a raw material quarried from the region, the dark stripes of slate alternate with bands of white limestone, emphasising the feeling of power, that to this day exudes from this impressive structure. René of Anjou, an enlightened and debonair Prince of Anjou, who later became king, is the founding father of the city of Angers. He was devoted to the arts and is still regarded as the most emblematic figures associated with this place of fortification and seat of power. Inside, the monumental Apocalypse tapestry, the largest woven work of Medieval times, created around 1380

Azay-

Rigny-Ussé Candes-St-Martin

la Canal de

Visited by many of the Kings of France, the Loire Valley is one of the rare UNESCO World Heritage Sites to include so many châteaux, manor houses, churches and abbeys, a testament to the chequered history of France. Located at the gateway to the Loire châteaux trail, Angers has a surprising variety of architectural influences that pay homage to this history; it is also renowned for its quality of living,Nan the tes ‘art de vivre’, that over the centuries has made it one of France’s most popular cities to live in. A medieval fortress, châteaux and beautiful country residences, these monuments tell its history…

Château du Plessis-Bourré

The châteaux

Château de Montriou

for the Duke of Anjou, Louis I, has found a home worthy of its vast size. The gardens of the château are simple in design and complex in their variety of fruit, vegetable and flowers that mix old and new varieties. Also, for a classic ‘Kodak moment’ visit the Jardin d’Hortensias d’Angers (hydrangeas). Interestingly, reference to these productive gardens can be seen featured in the medieval Tapestry of the Apocalypse. • Visitor information p. 60

Chécy Châteauneuf-sur-Loire

Meung-sur-Loire

Olivet Cléry-St-André

Jargeau

Germigny-des-Près St-Benoit-sur-Loire

Beaugency Sully-sur-Loire Gien Ménars Briare Chambord

Blois

Coss

ron

Beuv

Chaumont sur-Loire Le Clos Lucé

Tours

Amboise

Cheverny

Cis

Rochecorbon

Villandry

Montlouis-sur-Loire

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Ind

Chenonceaux re

-le-Rideau

Valencay

Loches

to find out more LE CHÂTEAU DE BAUGÉ tion, A surprising visit, a mysterious collec of the a unique discovery! Hear the story , and master of the château, King René one of discover the Hôtel Dieu Apothecary, listed the most beautiful in France and a historical monument. m More information at www.chateau-bauge.co ... ON THE TRAIL OF THE LOIRE CHÂTEAUX along red scatte s 57 major historic monument er the Loire river just ready for you to discov rny, or rediscover! Villandry, Chambord, Cheve ectural Azay-le-Rideau… every one an archit setting treasure and nestled in the lush green of the majestic Loire valley.

BRISSAC, THE TALLEST CHÂTEAU IN FRANCE “If I was not the heir apparent, I would want to be a Brissac!” King Henri II’s homage to the courage of Charles I of Cossé, Count of Brissac, who displayed great heroism during the siege of Perpignan in 1542, still seems to echo around the monument. The château is the tallest in Anjou and in France (48 metres from the ground to the chimney tops). The grounds offer some wonderful views from the shade of its hundred-year-old trees, and the château itself displays some stunning décor. Known affectionately as ‘Giant of the Loire Valley, the château has 200 rooms and it is still the home of the Cossé Brissac family. It has some spectacular gold leaf ceilings, tapestries, antique furniture, a stunning Belle Époque theatre, a 16th century chapel and an impressive 32-metre guardroom. The château de Brissac hosts events all year round for both adults and children: flower festival, Easter egg hunt, Grand Christmas market… • Visitor information p. 60

• More information at www.leschateauxdelaloire.org Valley Documentation “Loire Châteaux, at the st reque on lable ”avai Kings the of Tourist Offices.

THE APOCALYPSE TAPESTRY CHÂTEAU D’ANGERS THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF THE A UNIQUE PIECE OF WEAVING 103 metres in length and technique, it is reversible and measures Made from wool using the low-warp visions of St John, the (the st script manu A.D. ry centu 1 on a th 4.5 metres in width. This work is based context of 14 century cal politi and social ical, histor the ates final text of the New Testament). It illustr e. famin and mics epide War, France, at the time of the Hundred Years th it was mutilated, abandoned late 18th and early 19 centuries when After a damaging period between the 19th century by Canon Joubert. The mid the in red resto and d emble and dispersed, the tapestry was reass public. d’Angers in 1954 to be presented to the tapestry was returned to the château ery that exudes from myst and olism able to appreciate the symb gh the In the semi-dark gallery, you will be been interpreted in many ways throu has John St of lypse Apoca The art. this stunning work of the time you leave here… by hts thoug own your have well centuries and you may ation p. 60 by château guides: see visitor inform • Explanation of the tapestry given

WHAT TO SEE & DO IN ANGERS & ITS REGION

LE PLESSIS-MACÉ, FLAMBOYANT & GOTHIC

Le du

château

Plessis-Macé 8 miles from Angers towards Laval

Photo. Bruno Rousseau

The stone walls and architectural features of the Château du Plessis-Macé (to be found on the road to Lion d’Angers, the D105) are a combination of the most beautiful characteristics of the country residences found in the Loire Valley. This marriage of creamy white limestone with slate gives it a striking appearance, similar to the walls of the Château d’Angers and hint at a related purpose - a barrier to the constant threat of Breton invasion. The estate was renovated in the 15th century at the request of Louis de Beaumont, then Chamberlain to the then King of France Charles VII. Up until then it had the appearance of a castle with thick authoritarian-like, windowless walls. These were embellished with turrets and mullioned windows. A splendid chiselled limestone balcony was added to the facade of this feudal dwelling and a chapel with remarkable wood panelling was also added. The Château du Plessis-Macé is a true reflection of flamboyant gothic architecture and exuberance and it has been the property of Conseil Général since 1967, Under this direction it has been the setting for the Festival d’Anjou. (Anjou theatre EPCC*) which embraces theatre in development along with established regional and national influences.

. Visit of the stately home and the gardens . Renting rooms for weddings, seminars or meetings . School workshops . Theatre festivals www.chateauplessismace.fr

Tél. 02 41 32 67 93

Departement de Maine-et-Loire property.

Plessis-Macé also encourages young people to discover the world of theatre through the festival “Très tôt en scène” held from the 16th March to the 5th april. * public body for cultural cooperation. • More information at www.chateau-plessis-mace.fr and p. 61

CHÂTEAU DE VAUX

The Château de Vaux, listed as a historical monument, is an ancient manor house built in 1821 by architect Desnoyers on the footprint of the cellars of an ancient castle, of which only the remains of a part of the wall, the gatehouse and three towers can still be seen. However, you can admire the remarkable Romanesque chapel built at the end of the 13th century and which has been completely restored. Interestingly, it was dedicated to Saint George and is today regarded as a chapel of architectural relics.

• Visitor information p. 61

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

VILLEVÊQUE: A BISHOP IN RESIDENCE A residence for the Bishops of Angers during 12th -15th centuries, the château was entirely rebuilt between 1148 and 1465 on the orders of Bishop Jean de Beauvau. It has a very pretty cloister with sculpted capitals and a museum presenting a collection of works of art from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period which have been amassed and then bequeathed to the City of Angers by the château’s last owner, Daniel Duclaux. Throughout the summer, the château is a haven of contemporary art, with sculptures from the Nov’Art event that is staged in its grounds. • More information p. 61

MONTRIOU, A GARDEN PARADISE The story of the château de Montriou is above all a family history. The original building and the chapel are a listed ‘Monument Historique’ and date from 15th century, when the Beauvau family (a powerful Angers dynasty) reigned over Montriou, located near the town of Feneu. In 1860, Ferdinand Cassin de La Loge, the great grandfather of the current owner, Baron Regis de Loture, doubled the size of Montriou without betraying the architectural style of the original dwelling. Today, Montriou’s reputation amongst visitors from all over the region is based on the plantations of marrows and cucurbitaceae and comes from the inexhaustible imagination of the lady of the manor, Nicole de Loture, who tends her extraordinary garden with the greatest care. • Infos pratiques p. 47 et p. 61

LE PLESSIS-BOURRÉ, BETWEEN ALCHEMY & ENIGMAS The château du Plessis-Bourré in Écuillé, is a stylish château built in less than 5 years (1468-1472) by Lord Jean Bourré, Master of the Treasury of King Louis XI. This medieval fortress, surrounded by water, is a favourite location for many film directors. • Visitor information p. 61

PIGNEROLLE, A BREATH OF FRESH AIR Built in the late 18th century for Sir Marcel Avril, Director of the Angers Equestrian Academy, the château de Pignerolle’s dimensions and architectural lines are reminiscent of the Petit Trianon at Versailles, of which it is an almost identical copy. Surrounded by listed formal gardens, the purpose of this superb neo-classical edifice, that is now home to the communication museum (more info p. 27), closely followed the sometimes chaotic meanders of history: the château was requisitioned in 1939 to house the exiled Polish government. It has witnessed some major historical events, including the installation of the German Kriegsmarine and its communications network during WWII, and the site has 10 hidden bunkers built by the Germans. One of these bunkers is open to visitors, as is a section of the underground passages that link Pignerolle château to the site’s largest bunker. Take a history tour for an unrivalled look at these unique sites. From June to September 2015, the garden is the setting for creative interpretations by the young people of Angers. 20 gardens designed by 27 students with a little help from the ‘Terre des Sciences’, all centred on the theme of ‘light’. • More information p. 61

FAMILY CHÂTEAUX IN ANJOU Anjou is in the privileged position of having a large number of inhabited châteaux, many by the same family for many centuries. > The château de Montgeoffroy in Mazé has been the home of the de Contades family since its origins in 1772. The resulting ensemble, a masterpiece of symmetry and sobriety, is striking by its size and its white harmony. Inside, the large wood-panelled rooms all retain their original furniture. > The château de Serrant in Saint-Georges-sur-Loire is a splendid 17th century princely residence in which Napoleon 1st briefly stayed in 1808. Furniture lovers will be delighted! Brochures available at the reception desks of the Angers and its region tourist offices. the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 19

KNOW-HOW MADE IN ANGERS

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

Angers, CENTRES OF COMPETITIVENESS

MAKING IT HAPPEN IN ANGERS! Ask for a copy of the latest Angers Meeting Plan ner ’s Guid e or download it at www.meetingangers.com Ange rs has a team of experts dedicated to ensuring that your event is a success.

GLOBAL INNOVATION IN HORTICULTURE Végépolys, based in Angers, is recognised throughout the world and acknowledged as a centre of excellence. Horticulturalists, gardeners and nursery growers produce over 1000 different varieties of plants. It is a plant research co-operative comprising 4,500 companies with over 30,000 employees. Its mission is promoting understanding and jobs through an innovative approach to horticulture. Based on the university campus, VEGEPOLYS receives over 40,000 professional visitors each year, who come to discuss the latest research and see plant innovation in action. In addition, Angers is also home to the Office communautaire des variétés végétales (OCVV), the plant variety classification authority.

BUREAU DES CONGRÈS ET DES ÉVÉNEMENTS bdce@angersloiretourisme.com +33 (0)2 41 23 50 50 www.meetinangers.com for you! Angers is the destination that works Up and coming major events: re 2022 > World Cong ress of Horti cultu

ADVANCED ELECTRONICS With 4,400 employees in the region, the electronics industry is a significant economic activity with high growth potential. Already, there are many renowned international companies based in and around Angers. ‘Le Cluster’ brings together businesses, schools, universities and laboratories funded by public and private institutions with the aim of creating a centre of excellence in Europe. In its planning stage is a techno electronic campus with laboratories, R & D centres, transfer structure, companies and schools.

(3500 participants)

> Congress of Arts and Crafts 2015 (1000 participants)

s 2015 > International Symposium Hastu (300 participants)

(300 > 8th Rosacae Genomics Conference 2016 participants)

> Greensys Congress 2019 (500 participants)

ANGERS, CONNECTED The Internet of Things (IoT) will revolutionise the world of business across many sectors. Angers is promoting a real ‘project accelerator’ for start-up businesses that want to be at the leading edge of innovation. It is a dedicated environment, with a favourable ecosystem, that will ‘go the mile’ to promote the Made in France brand. From conception through to production, Angers is the place where it happens.

insider tips Loire! Visit the companies of the Pays de la that ee the complete list of companies •S can be visited all year round at www.visiteznosentreprises.com ‘Business week’ in the Loir Anjou. st urther information from the Touri •F Office - Loir en Anjou.

MADE IN ANGERS : THE LABEL OF INNOVATION r businesses take part in a month-long More than 140 companies and 50 othe h, . Held from mid February to mid Marc event that highlights their expertise hbouring neig and city the of omy econ mic the event is a window onto the dyna uction, research and the skills of Angers’ areas with a behind scenes look at prod pharma and electronics. ch, hi-te leading employers in agriculture, ersloiretourisme.com More information at www.ang •

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 21

Open from the 25th of March to the 10th of October

Avenue du Lac de Maine 49000 Angers +33(0)2 41 73 05 03

MY PAD

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KNOW-HOW MADE IN ANGERS

success STORIES

Their story is a bit like a photo album that has been preserved in the memory of the Angevin

BLANC DE SABLE, GOURMET SPECIALITY OF THE LOIRE Initiatives of the communes of the Vallée Loire-Authion, 4 bakers have pooled their talent and energy to create a chocolate treat without comparison. For nearly two years these bakers met, pooled their resources, tested, refined and finally found the balance of flavours and consistency that is now: ‘Le Blanc de Sable’. The result is a fondant delicacy of white chocolate-coated berries on a crispy chocolate-hazelnut base, which colourfully hints at the elements of the land and riverscape of the region. Available at bakeries throughout the region and from the Tourist Office in Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire… it’s a treat to be enjoyed without moderation!

•M ore information at www.vallee-loire-authion.fr Philippe Blanchar at la Daguenière, Fabien Thomy at St-Mathurin-sur-Loire, Sébastien Genneté at Corné & Pierre-Yves Maugin at la Ménitré >

COINTREAU, GIFFARD, A FEW DROPS OF THE FAMILY ESSENCE Created between 1840 and 1885, these landmark distilleries in Anjou have stood the test of time and still delight the taste buds of fans of these ancestral liqueurs. The most famous, Cointreau, is a skilful mixture of bitter and sweet orange peels distilled in copper stills. It is available in 200 countries with 15 million bottles sold every year worldwide. Giffard was made famous by its Menthe Pastille hinting at the mint pastilles that were so fashionable in 19th century, when the distillery was still only a pharmacy. Four generations later, Giffard is still a family business but now produces fruit crèmes, liqueurs and syrups. •V isits to the production sites, see information p. 24

JACQUES BRIANT, INNOVATIVE HORTICULTURALIST It was in 1955 that Jacques Briant, son and grandson of nurserymen, created his own nursery in Angers. Within 5 years, he had launched his first mail order catalogue to gardening enthusiasts throughout France. Jacques' mission was to experiment and source the best varieties of plant. Innovative thinking led him to develop ‘ready to plant’ kits in 1993. A year later, his son Nicolas took over the business and rebuilt the 7,000 m2 site at Saint-Sylvain-d'Anjou, which is open to the public and brings pleasure to enthusiasts and tourists every Sunday. The business has grown substantially and now fulfils over 500,000 orders a year throughout France. Over 60 years of passion and innovative thinking has made this one of the big success stories in Angers.

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KNOW-HOW MADE IN ANGERS

TECHNICAL

museums

LE CHÂTEAU-MUSÉE DE LA COMMUNICATION A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

A host of museums that pay tribute to the production and technological skills of Angers and the surrounding area.

CARRÉ COINTREAU, A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES

You can learn the secrets of the production of Cointreau by visiting the unique production site of this famous liqueur. You will be guided around the distilling room scented by the subtle aromas of sweet and bitter orange zest, then share a unique product experience in a friendly atmosphere with our barman! Guided tour by appointment only. Call J+33 (0)2 41 31 50 50.

GIFFARD, FROM FRUIT TO LIQUEUR, GIFFARD EXTRACTS NATURE’S BEST Discover the flavour of MenthePastille and enter the world of Giffard: A tour though more than 125 years of history that includes the 'visitors’ tour, a special tasting area, the scent bar and the shop. Guided tours by prior arrangement only on J+33 (0)2 41 18 85 14

ESPACE AIR PASSION, A TRIP UP INTO THE AIR

The Espace Air Passion is the first private air museum in France. A team of volunteer enthusiasts share its work in the preservation of aeronautic heritage. 40 historic aeroplanes and gliders make up the collection, which includes the plane in which René Gasnier made the first flight in Anjou in 1908.

rolle At the heart of the domaine de Pigne rolle, a (see p.19) stands the château de Pigne built replica of the Petit Trianon de Versailles, th century. by Bardoul de la Bigottière in the 18 to the A listed historical building, it is home retraces which tion, unica comm la de e musé iques the evolution of communication techn day. from prehistoric times to the present es for The sound and video guide (audio-guid h) will adults and children available in Englis to life! bring the great communication adventure

LE CHÂTEAU MUSÉE DES COIFFES ET DES TRADITIONS, AN EXCEPTIONAL COLLECTION

LE MUSÉE DU GÉNIE, THE HISTORY OF MILITARY ENGINEERING THROUGH THE AGES Relive the history of military engineering through chronological and themed areas. See the know-how of sappers from ancient times to the present day. The museum exhibits maps, engravings, paintings, weapons, uniforms and models alongside films and interactive screens. The entrance lobby has a shop where you will find souvenirs and books on engineering.

King René’s favourite home, the Château des Ponts-de-Cé. Today in its rooms over 600 headdresses are on display, alongside authentic costumes from the province of Angers. A world of lace, grace and charm dedicated to the women of Angers; centuries of work where needle and thread, patience and art made the women of Ponts-de-Cé the most beautifully dressed in the region. • Visitor information p. 59-60

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

“ the blue gold”of Angers SLATE,

A visit in Angers is always marked with white and blue stone... limestone and slate oblige! A dark-coloured city with walls of shale and roofs of slate, but also a white city adorned with cretaceous Loire limestone, Angers completes the colourful palette of the Anjou landscapes

A NOBLE MATERIAL, A NOBLE PROFESSION

TRÉLAZÉ, THE BIRTHPLACE OF BLUE GOLD

“l’Anjou noir”... Tools, machines, items of work clothing, samples of shale, slate models, etc.

Renowned worldwide for its exceptional fine quality, the reputation of Angers slate is set in stone! Industrially extracted in the quarries of Trélazé since the 19th century, slate covers the roofs and adorns the most beautiful buildings of the Loire Valley and other royal residences such as the château de Versailles.

For centuries, the town of Trélazé has moved with the rhythm of the ardoise slate mines. Known as ‘blue gold’, this blue-grey slate can be found on the roofs of almost every building in the region. As a result, the local landscape of Trélazé has some interesting and quite exceptional surprises. Walking/hiking trails (more info p.34) reveal the history of the mines with much of the original equipment still in place and show how nature is beginning to reclaim the site with some exceptional flora (orchids, lichens, and reed beds). There are now over 60 species of birds nesting on the site - a twitchers’ paradise.

The exhibition will explain the techniques used to extract and shape the stone. A shale splitter will demonstrate the ancestral techniques used to produce slates, and will reveal anecdotes and memories of the profession.

tourist office hints ROUGH PIECES OF SLATE… COVERED IN NOUGATINE ut It is unthinkable to leave Angers witho oise, having tried the famous Quernons d’Ard atine little rectangles of caramelised noug d in with almonds and hazelnuts, coate late. slate-coloured (bluish) white choco in 1966 These little chocolates were created nal and acquired regional and then natio Ruban renown, when they were awarded the year. Bleu prize in 1990 for best sweet of the

snapshot LA MINE BLEUE visit a Located to the north-west of Angers, former slate mine 130m underground! m • More info at www.laminebleue.co

insider tips of From June to mid-August, take advantage slate the “Pass Loire-Ardoise”. Discover the enjoy museum and “La Maison de Loire” and both a boat trip on the Loire. Ticket on sale at tourist sites.

LE MUSÉE DE L’ARDOISE, SHOWCASING ANCESTRAL KNOW-HOW The slate museum is a place to remember and learn about the work of shale miners, telling the story of

In 2012, the museum was completely redesigned and modernised to create an interactive and educational space that is guaranteed to excite visitors, no matter what their age! • Visitor information p. 60

FRESHWATER ESCAPADES

THE LOIRE VALLEY

Majestic and mysterious Listed in 2000 as a World Heritage Site, the Loire Valley is one of Mother Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crown jewels. The 16th century French poet Joachim du Bellay extolled it virtues with lyrical descriptions of its landscapes. Later the English painter William Turner, renowned the world through out for his watercolour landscapes, captured the very essence of the Loire and its magical light that never seems to fade. From land to sky and from air to water, the Loire shimmers with colour and moves majestically across a landscape shaped by man and nature.

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

THE LOIRE VALLEY, A FOUR-COLOUR IMPRESSION The cultural and natural landscape of the Loire valley has been shaped by man around four elements and four colours... The blue of the royal river: including its tributaries the Maine and the Loir, more natural and more wild. Its diversified environments: the riverside and sand banks, islands and wooded flood plains these are natural habitats rich flora and fauna. A range of birds frequent the banks of the Loire including the osprey, the grey heron, the great cormorant, the sand martin, kingfisher and tern. The white limestone: It is to this stone that helps to create the exceptional light that illuminates the buildings around the Loire and its rich architectural heritage of manor houses, abbeys, châteaux. Classic among these is the emblematic château fortress of Angers and its 17 duo-tone towers of slate and limestone.

THE PEOPLE OF ANJOU PLAY BALL

’ by the Listed as a ‘Ligerian heritage game a game Ministry for Culture, ‘boule de fort’ is is not typically played in Anjou. The ball ce is not quite round and the playing surfa d on the quite flat. The game was first playe kill boats of the Loire when fishermen would bottoms time by playing boules on the flat d in of their crafts. La Boule de Fort is playe e, players ‘societies’. On a curved playing surfac ble to try to land their ball as close as possi there the jack, known as the ‘maître’. Today ete in are still nearly 300 societies that comp challenge tournaments. societies • The fédération of boule de fort 2 02 in Western France: +33 (0)2 41 60 3 www.fedebouledefort.free.fr

The green of its parks, market gardens and horticulture: This ever-flourishing tradition can be seen in the rich and diverse landscapes: private and public gardens, botanical parks, etc. The red of the nectar of Bacchus: The Loire Valley in Anjou would be less elegant without the colours of the vines that adorn its hillsides and escarpments. For centuries, its cultural identity has been shaped around its vines and fine wines.

THE LOIRE, A LIVING RIVER The Loire is a river of life harbouring ancient and modern activity. Around its little ports you can admire traditional boats such as the Loire barges, the former goods boats that travelled up and down the Loire up until the 20th century, or the ‘toues cabanées’ which are still used by the last remaining professional fishermen. In canoes, on river cruisers, traditional boats or in a hot air balloon, the Loire is a source of surprising discoveries. Throughout the year, the Loire is the location for numerous events: jazz concerts, story-telling, cocktail-concerts - are just some of the new ways to discover the Loire through music and the spoken word.

insider tips A PERFECT GIFT: “THE LOIRE VALLEY FROM THE SKY!” cal Take off in a hot air balloon for a magi adventure between land and sky... • More information at www.angersloiretourisme.com the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 27

FRESHWATER ESCAPADES

typical VILLAGES

Cornilléles-Caves

Many villages in the Angers Loire Valley region are included in the area listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 2000, as an outstanding cultural landscape. Focus on a few of these characteristic villages...

St-Mathurinsur-Loire

SAVENNIÈRES, A VILLAGE TO SAVOUR

BLAISON-GOHIER AND SAINT-RÉMY-LA-VARENNE, BETWEEN THE LOIRE AND THE AUBANCE VINEYARDS

SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE AND LA MÉNITRÉ, ON THE ROUTE OF THE “GRANDE LEVÉE D’ANJOU”

At the heart of the Savennières winegrowing area (more information p.39) is the village that bears the same name. It is classed as ‘Petite cité de caractère’ and is a haven for lovers of historical monuments. The Church of Saint Pierre is one of the oldest Romanesque religious buildings in Western France. The surrounding area has a number of other historical monuments and buildings including several châteaux, manor houses and some magnificent parks such as Le Fresne and Les Vaults.

The “village de charme” of BlaisonGohier, ‘Petite cité de caractère’, has some beautiful buildings all along the discovery trail. Its flower-filled streets and its monuments (château de Blaison, collégiale Saint-Aubin) are worth a visit.

The tourist route that runs alongside the Loire from La Daguenière to La Ménitré, passes through many villages full of character, exceptional cultural and natural heritage. Pause in St-Mathurin-sur-Loire to admire its architecture and its unique setting on the river. The village of La Ménitré, a “station verte de vacances”, offers a chance for real relaxation at the Port St Maur, listed for its outstanding landscape.

Nearby, the village of St-Rémy-laVarenne, situated between the riverbank and wooded hills, has a rich history, much of it due to the Benedictine Priory. • More info p. 13

nearby Cornillé les Caves: This troglodyte village with its unusual heritage is an official Traditional Village. Its caves are partially open to visitors (appointment only) and stretch nd, for over 12 miles unde rgrou th hollowed out between the 16 and u 19th centuries in order to obtain the tuffea area. stone used to develop the surrounding

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

îles de Loire, THE VAGARIES OF A RIVER tourist office hints LA MAISON DE LOIRE EN ANJOU AT SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE space An exciting and unusual exhibition river: that looks at the 3 dimensions of the d the life along its banks; the men who worke al flora, river and the river itself with its natur photo fauna and wildlife. With permanent plus a displays and temporary exhibitions es programme of ‘edutainment’ that includ al themed walks, twilight trails and an unusu for treasure hunt - there’s something everyone to enjoy. • More information p. 34 and p. 68 e, valid Enjoy the benefits of the Pass Entré and a for a year to visit la Maison de Loire ère. ticket with the Bateaux Loire de Lumi • Events diary at: www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr

The Loire’s sandbanks, known as grèves, move according to the currents, changing the landscape. Over time, the Îles de Loire were formed.

L’ÎLE DE BÉHUARD, A SPIRITUAL ISLAND

Béhuard is a “Petite Cité de Caractère” and the only town nestling on an island on the Loire. It has been famous since the Middle Ages for its Pilgrimage to the Virgin Mary, its church of NotreDame and its sanctuary built on the orders of Louis XI.

L’ÎLE AUX CHEVAUX, NATURE AT ITS WILDEST

Located in Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire, l’île aux Chevaux is one of the Département’s largest islands on the Loire. Previously farmland, the island today is used for pasture. Nestling alongside the l’Ile aux Chevaux (opposite SainteGemmes-sur-Loire) is the I’Ile Courgain, which is accessible by river shuttle boat from June - September. • More information p. 30

FROM THE GRANDE LEVÉE D’ANJOU, YOU CAN SEE NUMEROUS OTHER ISLANDS OF THE LOIRE THAT PUNCTUATE THE RIVER: l’île du Grand Buisson in Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire, l’île Sorin in La Bohalle, l’île de Mezangeon in La Daguenière or l’île de Blaison in Blaison-Gohier… • Walking and rambling paths p. 34

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 29

FRESHWATER ESCAPADES

countryside

EXCEPTIONAL LES BASSES VALLÉES ANGEVINES, FRAGILE AND PRECIOUS Covering over 6,000 hectares and listed by the Natura 2000 network since 2004, the Basses Vallées Angevines are among the most beautiful and exceptional natural wetlands in Europe. These vast floodplains to the north and south of Angers are crossed by the rivers Mayenne, Sarthe and Loir, which join the river Maine before flowing into the Loire. They constitute one of the principal nesting areas in Europe for a large number of bird species. The Basses Vallées Angevines are on Western Europe’s principal migratory route. Throughout the seasons, thousands of birds make a stop in these wetlands, which host up to 100,000 water birds during the winter period. But above all, these floodplains are the final refuge for a species that is endangered throughout the world: the Corn Crake. These alluvial valleys have preserved a diversity of rare plants. About thirty species of the 250 local meadow plants now have protected status. Amongst them, the most emblematic and spectacular of all is the Fritillaria meleagris or Snake’s head with its mauve-checkered, bell-shaped flowers.

PROTECTED ECO-SYSTEMS... AT THE GATES OF ANGERS Île Saint-Aubin (also listed in the Natura 2000 area) is located close to Angers, at the confluence of the Maine basin, in the heart of the Basses Vallées Angevines (Anjou floodplains). The island stretches over an area of almost 600 hectares and constitutes an ecologically rich agricultural environment. Other outstanding sites such as the commune of Corzé on the Loir, the Marshes of Montreuil-Juigné and the Meadows of La Baumette, downstream from Angers, boast exceptional biodiversity. And not forgetting Lac de Maine and Saint-Nicolas and Balzac parks in Angers...

THE LOIRE-ANJOU-TOURAINE REGIONAL PARK, THE LARGEST IN THE LOIRE VALLEY On a site of 271,000 hectares, straddling Anjou and Touraine, the Loire-AnjouTouraine regional park brings together 141 towns and villages in order to preserve its rich natural, historical and 30

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

cultural heritage. From vineyards to forests, troglodyte caves to abbeys and châteaux... there is so much to discover.

tourist office hints

A GREAT DIVERSITY OF FLORA AND FAUNA... The great diversity of natural environment across the territory enables numerous animal and plant species to flourish. Over 200 bird species have been spotted here. Along the Loire, between La Daguenière and La Ménitré, in Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne or Blaison-Gohier, you can see a variety of animal species, some rare or protected (including the osprey, colonies of river terns and sand martins, the European beaver) that frequent the sand banks, the plains, the river banks and the islands of this section of the Loire, which is listed on the Natura 2000 network.

L’AUTHION Known as the ‘cradle of plants’, a trip along the Authion reveals a chequerboard of fields of flowers and speciality crops, quite literally a maze of colour. This important horticultural area is found at the mouth of the tributary with the Loire, where it joins e at the old river port of la Chevaleri à Sorges, which is known for its box bridge spanning the Loire.

AN AREA TO EXPLORE... Discover y and heritage trails, bridleways, canoe-kayaking trips, nature walks... there are many ways to explore this unique park. Explorer’s book and tourist map available at Tourist offices.

• More information at www.parc-loire-anjou-touraine.fr

LE LOIR ty The source of the Loir is located twen kilometres from Chartres and runs for around 320 km through the south of the u. Eure, the Vendômois, Maine and Anjo joins Loir the rs, Ange of h Nort To the the Sarthe and the Mayenne to form re the Maine. The river is a major featu of the landscape and is dotted with many watermills, bearing witness to the past activities of millers, and with some fine châteaux. Rece nt popl ar plan tatio ns and hedgerows line the banks of this stillwild river, protecting and sheltering it. s The Loir is non-navigable, impetuou in the winter and calm in the summer, perfect for fishing and canoeing.

Bon voyage

ON THE WATER DISCOVER THE CHARMS OF THE RIVERS OF ANJOU ON A NETWORK OF 300 KM NAVIGABLE RIVERS. TAKE TO THE RIVER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE LUNCHTIME OR DINNER EXPERIENCE. All aboard for a river cruise with commentary from the man who knows - the captain of your boat l'Hirondelle will reveal some of magic of the riverbanks, the châteaux dotted along the shore line and the river towpath that follows the Mayenne river. Lunchtime or dinner, this is a cruise like no other. Or take a trip on the 'Loire de Lumière' for a illuminating (forgive the pun!) trip along the mightyLoire.

snapshot QUIET PLEASE...WE'RE FISHING! Fishing ‘Fishing for all’ is the Maine et Loire A large Federation’s spearhead campaign. ing number of sites have been created includ lity, some for people with reduced mobi nce at such as: on the banks of the Auba ier, on Brissac-Quincé and Charcé-Saint-Ell ion in the Loir in Corzé and on the l’Auth Happy Corné. And that’s no fisherman’s tail. fishing in Anjou! • More information : oire : Fédération de Pêche de Maine-et-L +33 (0)2 41 87 57 09 ALL ABOARD ‘LOIRE DE LUMIÈRE’ ottoFrom April to September, these flat-b d tour med riverboats offer a one hour guide es and on the Loire. You’ll see the villag some river ports along the river as well as rs. of its wildlife including herons and beave ent It is a voyage of discovery from a differ perspective. trips: In July and August, there are themed noons bird watching on Wednesday after e; a hosted by the Bird Protection Leagu days, ‘twilight evening experience’ on Thurs special ‘drinks and a cruise’ on Friday, and evening concerts on Saturdays. 1 82 • More information on +33 (0)2 41 57 0 or at www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr

HOLIDAYS ON THE RIVER FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS. You are the skipper when you cast-off for a weekend break, mini or full week holiday on the river...Carry on cruising! • Visitor information p. 64 SPORTING HOLIDAYS. Take a hike along the riverbank of Europe's largest, untamed river. See the Loire and its flood plain including the Basses Vallées Angevin and explore the heart of the parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Tourraine. Spectacular riverscapes, wildlife and fauna await! • To learn more including contact details for the boating and canoeing clubs go to p. 64

THE RIVER SHUTTLES, AN ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY Throughout the summer, set off on board the river shuttles and let yourself be carried away towards the Loire and Basses Vallées Angevines (Anjou wetlands)… Choose your own programme for the day… Embark from the river port of Angers aboard a traditional Loire boat known as a gabare or toue: the river shuttles invite you to discover 10 towns and villages among the tourist attractions of the Anjou region. A range of different destinations to choose from with family or friends: on the Mayenne, Sarthe and Loire rivers. It is possible to load your bikes aboard (free by prior arrangement), which allows you to enjoy the local heritage to the utmost after disembarkation. You can also return to your point of departure on foot – by following the various walking routes shown on a map that is handed out by the bargemen – you can also return by bus or river shuttle. • From the 10th July to the 6th September - Prices : 4 € / 3 € Information and booking : Angers tourist office +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 31

GREEN EXPLORING

THE LOIRE

by Bike

For those who love exploring the countryside by bike, the “ Loire à Vélo ” guide has nearly 140kms of routes through the Anjou.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

A truly international tourist route dedicated to cyclo-tourism, this inter-regional route of over 800km (from Nevers to the Atlantic Ocean) provides all the emotions and environments of the river without demanding too much effort. On a European scale, the “Loire à Vélo” route is part of the Eurovéloroute river route between the Atlantic Ocean and the Black Sea (2,400km). The loop around Angers offers various routes of around 50km, winding through 5 exceptional sites : Angers old town; the Natura 2000-listed Maine towpath; the Savennières vineyard; the exceptional environment of the Trélazé slate mine with its extraordinary nature, its quarries and machinery; and the banks of the Loire - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. • The “Loire à Vélo Angers & sa région” map, available on request at the Angers Tourist office or downloadable from: www.angersloiretourisme.com • The “ La Loire à Vélo de Nevers à l’Atlantique ” sold in the Tourist office or at www.loireavelo.fr and www.anjou-vélo.com

spotlight ! THINGS TO DO DURING YOUR STAY to your Download this free app “Loire by bike” travel smartphone or tablet. You can use it for her, arrangements, accommodation, weat ! route suggestions and so much more a wealth CYCLOPEDIA is a free app that holds ge and of information about the culture, herita about the natural environment… plus news Don’t activities and events all along the Loire. go out without it!

La Loire à Vélo Liaison Loire Aubance

insider tips EN YOU NO LONG ER NEED TO BURD YOURSELF WITH LUGGAGE sal left luggage facilities are at your dispo cin the Tourist office of Angers and Brissa Loire Aubance. FOR BIKE HIRE ble in The list of bike hire agencies is availa the Tourist office. WEEK-END IDEA : DISCOVER ANGERS BY BIKE e of Discover the many sides and atmospher and its the city: its flavours, its know-how unusual sights... all by bike! hotel 2 days / 1 night in a 3 or 4 star From 62€ per person 0 00 or • I nfo and booking: +33 (0)2 41 23 5 on www.angersloiretourisme.com

LIAISON LOIRE-AUTHION Between the Loire and the Authion, 36 km to explore the fields of flowers, specialised agriculture and typical houses of the valley at your own pace. A fabulous panorama awaits you.

THE LAYON AUBANCE ROUTE This secure 60km circular route is a variation of the “Loire à vélo”, taking riders through the vineyards of the Aubance, its wine-producing villages and its heritage, including the Château de Brissac, nicknamed the Loire Valley Giant.

THE LOIRE-AUBANCE CYCLE PATH It winds between the Loire and vineyards, over a distance of 24 km, making it possible to set out from Brissac-Quincé and joins the Loire à Vélo cycle trail at Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne. Remarkable natural landscapes, a protected environment and a major natural heritage form a wonderful combination on this undulating trail. Specially designed facilities for cyclists have been put in place along the route: bar bike stands, tables, bike shelters, luggage lockers etc.… so many facilities provided in order to allow everybody to enjoy our welcoming villages.

THE MAYENNE TOWPATH A towpath with a difference, now a cycle path that forms part of the ‘La Vélo Francette’ cycle route that begins at the ferry port of Caen/Ouistreham and traverses the Pays de la Loire on its way to La Rochelle. In the Anjou, there’s a new section of the route between La Jaille Yvon and the l’ île St Aubin. Cycle enthusiasts can join the Loire à Vélo route at Bouchemaine. • More information at the Tourist office, on www.angersloiretourisme.com and on www.anjou-velo.com

the

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Book your accommodation, holiday or gifts online.

Réservez votre hébergement, séjour ou vos idées cadeaux en ligne.

89 km >

DÉGUSTATION VINS DU VAL DE LOIRE LOIRE VALLEY WINE TASTINGS

D102

Bureau des Congrès et des Événements, Convention Bureau

(33)2 41 23 50 50 bdce@angersloiretourisme.com - www.meetinangers.com toute l’année lun > ven, Mon > Fri 9:00 > 13:00 - 14:00 > 18:00 all year round

Maison du Port, Maison du Port

38, bd Henri-Arnauld - Cale de la Savatte - Angers - (33)2 41 23 50 02 horaires, se renseigner auprès de l'Office de tourisme 01/04 > 30/09 opening times: contact the tourist office

Office de tourisme Brissac-Loire Aubance Tourist Office

8 pl. de la République 49320 Brissac-Quincé (33)2 41 91 21 50 accueil@ot-brissac-loire-aubance.fr 02/05 > 30/06 - 01/09 > 30/09 lun > sam, Mon > Sat 10:00 > 12:30 - 14:00 > 18:00 jrs fériés, Public hols 10:00 > 13:00 ouvert 7j/7 01/07 > 31/08 open daily 01/10 > 30/04 lun > ven, Mon > Fri 13:00 > 17:00 jeu, Thur 09:30 > 13:00 - 14:00 > 17:00 Pour votre visite, baladeurs audio Baladoo disponibles à l’Office de tourisme Brissac-Loire Aubance et en téléchargement (mp3) sur www.angersloiretourisme.com. To help you get more out of your visit, Baladoo audioguides are available at the Brissac-Loire-Aubance Tourist Office. Mp3 downloads are available on www.angersloiretourisme.com.

L’Ar L’Arc

Itinéraire La Loire à V Loire by Bike route

AIRE DE STATIONNEMENT

Chalonnes-sur

Office de tourisme Loire-Authion Tourist Office

Port Charles-Sigogne 49250 Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire (33)2 41 57 01 82 - info@ot-loire-authion.fr 01/07 > 31/08 10:00 > 18:30 fermé mer matin 11/04 > 30/06 - 01/09 > 01/11 mar > sam, Tues > Sat closed on Wed morning 10:00 > 12:30 - 14:00 > 18:00 dim et jrs fériés, Sun and public hols 14:00 > 18:00 02/11 > 10/04 mar, Tues 10:00 > 12:30 mer > ven, Wed > Fri 14:00 > 17:30 sam, Sat 10:00 > 12:30 - 14:00 > 17:30 01/01 > 01/02 - 02/11 > 31/12 fermé, closed Pour votre visite, dépliants Circuits Découverte et fiches randonnée disponibles à l’accueil. To help you plan your visit, Sightseeing Tour brochures and walking guides are available at Reception.

Offices de tourisme Angers Val de Loire

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Service Groupes, Groups Dept

(33)2 41 23 50 20 service.groupes@angersloiretourisme.com toute l’année lun > ven, Mon > Fri 9:00 > 13:00 - 14:00 > 18:00 all year round

Stay connected 24/7 with the mobile site: m.angersloiretourisme.com

Restez en lien 24H24 avec le site mobile : m.angersloiretourisme.com

@Angers_OT #angersloiretourisme #angersémoi

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Office de tourisme d’Angers Loire Métropole et centrale de réservation Angers Loire Métropole Tourist Office and hotel booking online

7 place Kennedy BP 15157 49051 Angers cedex 02 (33)2 41 23 50 00 - accueil@angersloiretourisme.com ouvert 7j/7 toute l’année, fermé les 1er mai, 25 déc et 1er jan open daily all year round, closed on May 1st, Dec 25th and Jan 1st

www.angersloiretourisme.com

Pour préparer votre séjour, les Offices de tourisme d’Angers Val de Loire vous donnent rendez-vous sur sur leur site web ! Planning your holiday? Check out the website of the Angers Val de Loire tourist offices!

Share your visits, your favourites and your holidays … And keep up with our latest news!

Partagez vos visites, coups de cœur, séjours… et suivez notre actualité

angersloiretourisme

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See all the walks on the Angers Loire Valley tourist map, available on request at Tourist Information Centres.

REGION DISCOVER THE LOIRE AUBANCE vines, with signposted bridleways... through hes, the Loire valley and woods, see churc as the mills and manor houses, as well stunning Château de Brissac. Brissac• Bridleway maps available from the Loire Aubance tourist office.

snapshot onsult their website at: C www.maine-et-loire.ffrandonnee.fr and for the full range of advice, dates walking guides. . • On sale in Angers tourist office shops BLIN G THE DEPA RTM ENTA L RAM ité COMMITTEE OF MAINE-ET-LOIRE (Com tre du Départemental de la Randonnée Pédesregion. Maine et Loire) helps you to discover the

for 1, 2 or 3 days Tourist Pass valid

Pour accéder au territoire, pensez à utiliser les modes de transport doux (trains, vélos…). To access the area, how about using an environmentallyfriendly form of transport (train, bike etc.).

Crédits photos Photographic credits - Couverture Cover : J.S. Evrard. Pages intérieures Inside pages: Angers Loire Tourisme, J.S. Evrard, G. Lebras, J.D. Billaud, Terra Botanica / B. Bechard, Espace Air Passion, C. Gagneux, C. Petiteau. Editeurs Editors: Office de tourisme d’Angers Loire Métropole - Société d’Economie Mixte Locale IM 049100006, Office de tourisme Brissac-Loire Aubance, Office de tourisme Loire-Authion et Office de tourisme du Loir en Anjou. Conception graphique Graphic design: bbcom - Parution : janvier 2015 Publication: January 2015 - Périodicité : annuelle - Frequency: annual - Tirage 52 350 ex. Circulation: 52,350 Imprimé par Imprimerie Vincent sur papier PEFC Printed by Imprimerie Vincent on PEFC paper L’abus d’alcool est dangereux pour la santé. À consommer avec modération. Alcohol abuse is dangerous to health. Drink responsibly.

Office de tourisme du Loir en Anjou Tourist Office

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2015 2016

PRESENTED BY THE ANGERS VAL DE LOIRE TOURIST OFFICES

d’Angers Val de Loire. This symbol on the map indicates places open to the public. On sale in Angers Val de Loire tourist offices.

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in the GUIDE TO CIRCULAR WALKS on sale Angers tourist office. es > N ature walk s in the Bass es Vallé Angevines - 10 € 14,50 € > Les Basses Vallées Angevines à pied ble Vigno et > 34 Randonnées entre Loire Brissac Loire Aubance - 6,50 € e Loire > 6 fiches de randonnées en Vallé Authion - 3 €  ” - 18 € > Ouvrage “ 30 randonnées en Anjou et Loire , Maine entre GR les > Itinéraire sur Layon - 12 €

CITY Avec ce symbole, retrouvez tout au long de cette carte les PASS lieux accessibles. En vente dans les Offices de tourisme

ud L‘O

sur-le-Loir MONASTÈRE DU BON PASTEUR OFFICE DE TOURISME DU LOIR EN ANJOU

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OFFICE DE TOURISME D’ANGERS LOIRE MÉTROPOLE

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homage to the beauty of the scenery. Both hardened hikers and occasional walkers can enjoy a breath of fresh air in the Loir valley... n se

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www.angersloiretourisme.com

LE VIGNOBLE / vineyards

Angers, 1re des grandes villes de France où il fait bon vivre*

Echangeur de la Baumette

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SLATE WALKS > The slate trail : ise (4 kms) starting from Musée de l’ardo a (the slate mine museum), revealing unique landscape > To the edges of the l’Authion : um (11 kms) starting from the slate muse specand ending at the river’s edge and its tacular slate scenery : > The quarries and their neighbours um; a (11 kms) starting from the slate muse and trail that merges historical, industrial modern urban planning

Val de Loire

LES CHÂTEAUX / castles

Angers, ranked no 1 in the list of best places to live

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The Loir valley has just as much to offer! Through villages or along the banks of the Loire, numerous footpaths pay and the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional park boast a vast diversity of flora and fauna and offer some beautiful nature walks. (more info p. 30)

THE BASSES VALLÉES ANGEVINES On horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage - an original way to explore the Loire valley and the Aubance vineyards with waymarked bridleways.

SADDLE UP !

On foot or by bike, take to the numerous marked footpaths and the GR3 to explore the scenery of the winegrowing valleys of the Authion.

WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS On the banks of the Loire, the Authion or the Maine, in the forests, the vineyards or on the vast wetlands, some fabulous natural riches await you. Whether you stroll, hike or simply walk, make exploring your favourite activity!

tourist office hints

any way you like r

14 bis, rue Henri Régnier, 49140 Seiches-sur-le-Loir (33)2 41 60 46 78 - (33)6 79 98 44 79 - tourismeduloir.enanjou@gmail.com http://tourisme-duloir-enanjou.over-blog.com fermé mer 01/01 > 30/01 lun > ven, Mon > Fri 10:00 > 13:00 - 14:00 > 17:00 closed on Wed fermé mer 01/02 > 31/03 lun > ven, Mon > Fri 9:00 > 17:00 closed on Wed 01/04 > 12/07 - 17/08 > 31/12 lun > ven, Mon > Fri 9:00 > 12:00 fermé mer 13:00 > 16:00 closed on Wed 13/07 > 16/08 mer > sam, Wed > Sat 9:00 > 12:00 - 13:00 > 16:00 Pour votre visite, des dépliants sont disponibles à l’accueil. To help you plan your visit, brochures are available at Reception.

Forêt domaniale de Longuenée

GUINGUETTE EN BORD DE LOIRE, ST-SATURNIN-SUR-LOIRE A CAFE ON THE BANKS OF THE LOIRE, ST-SATURNIN-SUR-LOIRE

D56

RANDONNÉE DANS LE VIG CYCLING IN THE VINEYARD

St-Clément-de-la-Place 4

D103

WALKING D10

D56

D96 3

St-Léger-des-B

Nantes

89 km > Angers D102

2 D7

St-Martin-du-Fo D

Jardin des kangourous Par du Fr

L’Arche

Chalonnes-sur-Loire

GREEN EXPLORING

Discovery TRAILS snapshot TEE OFF IN ANGERS ! the Lac The Avrillé Blue Green golf course and eurs, de Maine swing golf welcomes amat s to a professionals, families and friend g. On course with a beautiful natural settin -desthe banks of the Loire in Saint-Jean you to Mauvrets, the Golf d’Angers invites on the discover golf or practise your game Anjou oldest fairways in Angers and the vers, region. Classes for beginners, impro private competitions, intensive courses, ! lessons... So we’ll see you on the green p. 72 ation inform • Visitor

we love it! YARDS INTERPRETIVE TRAIL IN THE VINE gy' at OF L’AUBANCE: 'Vineyards & Geolo over St-Melaine-sur-Aubance; 'the vine ards time' at St-Jean-de-Mauvrets and 'Viney & Heritage' at Blaison Gohier. secrets With family or friends, discover the three of the Auba nce vineyards along enjoyable and insightful trails.. c-Loire Leaflets at the Tourist Office Brissa m Aubance and www.angersloiretourisme.co to cheer some After the effort, there's every come! The tourist office welcomes you for a Thursday morning in July and August, local tasting of the wines produced by the vineyards. • More information is available at and Brissac-Loire Aubance Tourist Office www.angersloiretourisme.com

Discovery trails combine the pleasure of exploring with the satisfaction of understanding. A variety of routes, all accessible and often educational, dotted with information boards to explain all the secrets of the Angers Loire Valley landscape.

NEAR ANGERS > Discovery trails: Angers old town > Nature discovery: Bouchemaine > Discovery trails: Île de Béhuard, Savennières, la Pointe à Bouchemaine, la Roche de Mûrs à Mûrs-Érigné and the parc des Ardoisières de Trélazé > Discovery trail “Si la pointe m’était contée”: Bouchemaine > Nature trail “A look at biodiversity”: Maison des chasseurs in Bouchemaine “Basses brosses et Chevalleries” regional nature reserve > Historic discovery trails: Briollay > Learn about wild flora at the Basses Vallées angevines marsh: Briollay > Touristic trail “Town, typical lanes and erstwhile activities”: Écouflant

> “Nature and made - man heritage” trail: Écouflant > Botanical trail: Villevêque

BETWEEN THE LOIR & THE FOREST > Loir loop and Boudré forest discovery trail: Seiches-sur-le-Loir

NEAR BRISSAC-QUINCÉ > The flora and the fauna of the Aubance: Charcé St-Ellier-sur-Aubance

IN THE VALLEY LOIRE-AUTHION > The tree circuit: Bauné

THE INTERPRETIVE MARSH TRAIL (UPSTREAM FROM BRAIN-SUR-L'AUTHION) At the heart of the marshes, this trail of discovery combines pleasure with knowledge. These are one of last wetlands of the Authion valley and they are home to many varieties of flora and fauna. This is a relaxing walk guid ed by Mot her Nat ure herself! the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 35

ANJOU VINEYARDS

UNDER THE SIGN OF BACCHUS The thousand-year-old cultivation of the vineyards of Anjou and Saumur developed alongside the construction of churches and abbeys. Our ancestors, ecclesiastical and common folk alike knew the importance of a temperate climate, rich and varied soils and underlying rock (slate, shale and limestone), to be the perfect mix for the good things in life; all the elements required for making excellent wines.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

ANJOU AT THE HEART OF THE LOIRE rd VALLEY

France’s 3 largest wine region

With over 30 Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), the Anjou and Saumur vineyards offer the most diversified range found in the Loire wine-growing region, both in colour and flavour: dry and sweet whites, dry and light rosés, fruity and full-bodied reds, and sparkling wines.

RS LA MAISON DES VINS DE LOIRE IN ANGE veAn essential starting point for disco ur, ring the vineyards of Anjou and Saum au the Maison du Vin, opposite the châte AOCs d’Angers, presents the vineyards, its or by and its tourist trail. By car, on foot for an bike, find the information you need ards, enjoyable exploration of the area’s viney landscapes and wine cellars. nsHere you will find courses and demo . It trations on the subject of winemaking eur, doesn’t matter whether you are an amat … for hedonist or connoisseur of fine wines of the those who are curious about the wines Loire - this is the place to be! ire.fr • More information at www.vinsvaldelo or +33 (0)2 41 88 81 13

Two grape varieties dominate the region: the "chenin blanc" for white wines (such as Savennières, Coteaux de l’Aubance, Coteaux du Layon, Bonnezeaux and Quarts de Chaume...) and the "cabernet franc" for reds (such as Anjou Rouge, Anjou-Villages, Saumur Puy Notre Dame and Saumur-Champigny) and rosés (Cabernet d’Anjou and Rosé de Loire). As many wines as there are flavours and colours: iridescent, delicate aromas of red fruits (blackcurrant, raspberry), fruity and floral hints of peach and apricot and so much more. Discovering the Anjou wine-growing region is also the discovery of its landscapes and its heritage. From the Loire to the Layon, via the Aubance and the Thouet, admire the scenery and hillsides that flank their feeder rivers and their picturesque villages with the vineyards which change over the seasons offering luminous, promising colours. On the edge of Angers, the Savennières, Coteaux de l’Aubance and Anjou-VillagesBrissac AOC are the most prestigious appellations of the wine-growing area.

LE SAVENNIÈRES A fine dry white wine made with a single grape variety, the chenin. It develops flavours of lime blossom, honey and flowers in its youth and with age acquires a powerful and complex aromatic structure.

LE COTEAUX DE L’AUBANCE A sweet wine also made only with the chenin grape variety, has an attractive yellow colour with green glints, evolving with age to amber glints.

weekend idea ! WE'VE GOT IT ALL ce should Lovers of wines and local produ rd wine be sure to visit France’s 3 largest grow producing region, whose vineyards along the banks of a wild river: the Loire! 2 days / 1 night in guest house From 103€ per person 0 00 or • Info and booking: +33 (0)2 41 23 5 at www.angersloiretourisme.com

L’ANJOU-VILLAGES BRISSAC An appellation of great renown, it is made with two grape varieties: the cabernet franc and the cabernet sauvignon. This red wine with a strong, often dark ruby colour is dominated by flavours of liquorice and black fruits.

* AOP : Appellation d’origine protégée. New term used in Europe to replace AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée)

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 37

ANJOU VINEYARDS

an aperitif cocktail

Escapade IN THE VINEYARDS The label ‘Vignobles & Découvertes’ (vineyards & excursions) is a welcome promise of quality in terms of reception, services and advice! First awarded in 2012, there are now 82 partners in the region, all of who are committed to developing wine tourism and destinations. Not only will you receive a warm welcome, you’ll also learn about and sample some of the finest that this region has to offer.

PLAN YOUR STAY IN A VINEYARD A stroll through the vineyards followed by a tasting or two! Sit with the viticulteur and talk with him about his passion for wine. Have lunch or dinner at a restaurant where the wine has been specially selected to complement the food. See the local tourist sites reflecting the history and cultural heritage of the region and take part in some of the special events that go on nearly all year round. • Get the’ Vineyards & Excursions’ brochure available from the Tourist Offices or you can download it at www.angersloiretourisme.com, click on ‘Brochures’.

* 'Caves Touristique' is a label awarded by Interloire to acknowledge wine cellars/caves that welcome visits by the public and offer tours.

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

ant This refreshing aperitif based on Crém de Loire is ideal in the summer. Ingredients : > bottle of Crémant de Loire > 1 lemon > 15 cl Cointreau > 12 cl sugar cane syrup Method : Loire . Chill the bottl e of Crém ant de e is Squeeze the lemon. When the bottl the well chilled, pour into a bowl, add juice. Cointreau, sugarcane syrup and lemon Serve chilled, drink responsibly.

tourist office hints region In the Angers Loire Valley wine ance/ (AOC Savennières, Coteaux de l’Aub 68 Anjo u-Vil lages Briss ac) there are . vineyards that sell directly to the public for A range of wineries that open their doors special tastings, tours and direct sales, plus events and open days...

to find out more LABEL VIGNOBLES & DÉCOUVERTES - THE OF QUALITY AND COMMITMENT is Created in 2009, this prestigious labeling awarded by ATOUT FRANCE, follow cil recommendation from the Higher Coun to desfor Wine Tourism (CSO). It is given comof er numb a tinations that provide ding plementar y tourism services (inclu recomaccommodation, dining or dining The gs). mendations, wine tours and tastin e and label is a promise of quality, servicDécoucommitment – look for ‘Vignobles & stay. vertes’ emblem and start planning your com/ • Infos at www.angersloiretourisme. / en/g astro nom y/go urme t-del ights vignobles-et-decouvertes-label

we love it! INTERPRETIVE VINEYARD TRAILS IN THE AUBANCE Three informative and easy trails: ‘Vineyard and geology’ in St-Melaine-sur-Aubance; ‘The vine over time’ in St-Jean-des-Mauvrets and ‘Vineyards and heritage’ at Blaison Gohier. With family, friends or just by yourselves, you can take a trip through time, exploring one of the great industries of France. t Office • Pamphlets are available at the Touris at: Brissac-Loire Aubance and for download www.angersloiretourisme.com se, Now, here is the best bit. After all this exerci t Touris well here comes the pleasure! The July in Office is open every Thursday morning r! and August for a tasting of the local necta

insider tips VINES, WINES AND WALKS events This is one of the big wine tourism diin the Loire Valley. Organised and co-or al ssion nated by InterLoire (the inter-profe are association for Loire Valley wines), there spec16 walks through some of the most walk tacular vineyards in the valley. Each give an is hosted by a viticulteur who will vines informative commentary on how the and are cultivated and how the wine is made lAppe the passion of those who make these end, the lations d’Origine Protégée (AOP). At the a tasting and gourmet snacks complete experience. ux > Walk : Anjou-Villages Brissac / Cotea in de l’Aub ance : 6 Sept embe r 2015 Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance. > Walk: Savennières (every 2 years): 5 September 2015

THE WINE INTERVIEW CHRISTOPHE DAVIAU SHARES HIS EXPERIENCES Wine grower extraordinary and owner of Domaine de Bablut (organic since 1996) located in Brissac Quincé, Christophe comes from an old Angevin wine growing family and can trace his roots back to 1546. He is Chairman of Anjou Villages Brissac wine trade association. Wine tourism is on the increase; from amateur lovers through to connoisseurs, the Anjou is now a popular place to visit and experience the distinctive flavours. Why? Growing numbers of tourists are turning to the Anjou for their vacation experiences; motivated by the chance to understand the interplay between the landscape, vineyards and grand homes and châteaux that help define this region. They want to learn about the history of winemaking and experience the variety of flavours and appellations that adorn the dinner table at home. Anjou is a major player in France’s wine industry. What characterises help differentiate the wines of the Anjou from other regions? Simply put, the Anjou wines are light and easy to drink and provide a perfect complement to most dishes. This is what many wine drinkers now want, along with a diversity of appellations. The Anjou also benefits from being one of the few regions that produce sweet wines, so you are guaranteed to find a wine that will suit your tastes and every occasion. Have you noticed an increase in demand for organically produced wine? Can you describe this trend? For a number of years, we have seen a growing interest in organic farming and viticulture. This positive trend is explained by the heightened awareness of the past use of chemicals to add flavouring and longevity. Today, people want to eat and drink in a healthy manner. In addition, the world is changing and we need to be more respectful of the environment and the natural landscape, which is why my own vineyard moved to organic viticulture nearly 20 years ago.

ALCOHOL ABUSE IS A HEALTH RISK, DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 39

Information & booking : 00 33 (0)2 41 31 50 50 Boulevard des Bretonnières - Z.I St Barthélemy d’Anjou www.cointreau.com

Drink responsibly.

ANJOU VINEYARDS

snapshot THE CLASSIC PLUM PIE Preparation : 20 minutes + 1 hour to rest the dough 35-40 minutes time : Cooking flour Ingredients : 125 g of water 500 g 1 egg 250 g butter 100 g sugar 1 pinch of salt 1 egg yolk 1,5 kg of greengage plums salt and Mix the flour, sugar, butter, egg, water. an hour. Let the dough rest in a cool place for of the Butter a pie dish. Spread a good half ang’ dough and line the pan, leaving an ‘overh a layer of 1-2 cm. Sprinkle with sugar. Arrange of plums on the dough base. the top With the rest of the dough, create ang’ to of the pie and fold in using the ‘overh to brown create the seal. Brush with egg yolk in the the lid of dough. Make an opening etres. centre by drawing a cross of 3 centim minutes. Put in a hot oven (180 ° C) for 35-40 When cooked, enjoy it warm or cold glass of Coteaux du Layon. Most excellent…!

with a

we love it! NDES LES CUISINERIES GOURMARME T DE L’AN JOU (TH E GOU MASTERS OF THE ANJOU)

with By appointment, you can spend time enjoying some of the grand chefs of the Anjou, a food experience like none other! • More information at www.cuisineriesgourmandesanjou.com

THE ANJOU MIX

ts, from A combination of restaurant exper ts to around the region, pool their talendining ensure that you have an unforgettable wines of experience complemented by the reau the Anjou and Saumur. To start, a Coint !. going aperitif to get the evening of the • For more information and a copy ’ go to: recipe booklet ‘36 Gourmet Ideas www.destination-anjou.com

ANJOU,

food fit for kings Of Anjou’s fertile land it is often said “everything grows except the olive tree. That said, we have never tried...”. Few regions can offer such a diverse range of produce: cereals, early vegetables, fruit (including the famous Doyenné du Comice, the delicious pear created in Anjou that still has pride of place on the top of many baskets!), vegetables, wine, liqueurs, etc. Anjou gastronomy is based on rural traditions, variety and high quality. Amongst the numerous fish of the Loire is the pike-perch which is complemented perfectly by sorrel, cream and beurre blanc. Some of the specialities that are omnipresent on market stalls: rillauds, small pieces of pork belly preserved in fat, in late summer, pâté aux prunes, a sort of pie filled with reine-claude plums, Crémet d’Anjou, a delicious dessert made with a crème fraîche base, often served with red fruits, Blancs de sable is a red fruits fondant coated in white chocolate and served on a chocolate-hazelnut base which will win you over. ( see p. 23 )…

Renowned for its wines, Anjou also offers a selection of liqueurs with evocative names: Cointreau, Menthe-Pastille, Guignolet… Like its scenery, the tables of Anjou are generous, authentic and welcoming!

ROUGH PIECES OF SLATE… COVERED IN NOUGATINE It is unthinkable to leave Angers without having tried the famous Quernons d’Ardoise, little rectangles of caramelised nougatine with almonds and hazelnuts, coated in slate-coloured (bluish) white chocolate. These chocolates were created in 1966 and acquired regional and then national repute when they were awarded the Ruban Bleu prize in 1990 for best sweet of the year. • La Petite Marquise - 22 rue des Lices - www.chocolat-lapetitemarquise.com

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 41

THE PLANT ODYSSEY

L’ANJOU

so very green!

France's #1 horticultural region.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

A heady mix of flowers, fruit, vegetables, seeds, vines, ornamental trees, medicinal and aromatic plants...what do you have? You have the greener Anjou, now the premier horticultural region of France. This tradition has gone from strength-to-strength creating a true centre of excellence. Today, it has a worldwide reputation as being the home to Végépolys, a cluster of over 4,500 horticultural companies who work together to promote innovation in growing plants and vegetables. For nearly 20 years, Angers has hosted the ‘Salon du Végétal’, the largest symposium and exhibition of its kind, bringing together both producers and buyers from around the world. ‘Le végétal en Anjou’ is a dynamic and cultural festival that encourages horticulturists and laboratories to open their doors and show their blooms > make sure you visit Ste Gemmes-sur-Loire and take stroll in its Mediterranean gardens > at the Château d’Angers, you’ll find its herb garden featuring the same variety of plants as those featured in the medieval Tapestry of the Apocalypse. You can also visit the garden of hydrangeas, combining old and new varieties to create a dazzling display.

tourist office hints FESTIVAL FABUL’EAU, end in Held annually on the last week Loir, September, in three towns along the are the gardens, parks and riverbanks from buzzing with excitement, as producers artists the region exhibit their creations and rful of every kind perform against this colou backdrop. • More information p. 57

2015: THE YEAR OF THE HYDRANGEA ‘‘BLOOMING BEAUTIFUL’ Today, the hydrangea represents the most important plant grown in France and most of this production is in the Pays de la Loire. This represents 6 million plants ‘ready to bloom’ - a massive 80% of all French production. In Angers, the Arboretum park hosts the all-important French reference collection. Some of the varieties grown in the Loire Valley are shipped around the world including to the USA, Japan and China. At the Château d’Angers, in the Royal House garden there are 30 varieties on show. Other varieties of this much-loved plant can be found at Bouchemaine, Ste-Gemmes-sur-Loire and Terra Botanica, Europe’s premier themed plant and nature park. So, in 2015 make sure that you take time out to visit the hydrangeas producers scattered around the local area and check out their blooming beautiful innovations. • More information p. 54-55

‘GROWTH’ IN THE ANJOU - A ‘POTTED’ HISTORY! 15th century > King René introduced the first plants. 1831 > The first experimentation in the Jardin Fruitier. (now called Jardin des Beaux-Arts). 1902 > The creation of the first laboratory and oenological station in Maine-et-Loire.

week-end idea FROM KING RENÉ’S CASTLE TO TERRA BOTANICA Angers! Enjoy a weekend of plant adventure in hotel 2 days / 1 night in a 2**, 3*** or 4**** From 49€ per person yrs) Based on 2 adults/2 children (4 to 12

0 00 or • Info and booking on +33 (0)2 41 23 5 at www.angersloiretourisme.com

1970 > INRA (The Institut national de la recherche agronomique) works with academics from the University of Angers, Agrocampus Ouest and the ESA to further research into plants and all things green. 1988 > OCVV ( l’Office Communautaire des Variétés Végétales) relocates to Angers. 2005 > Launch of Végépolys, a global competitiveness initiative bringing together researchers, students and producers to create a true centre of excellence. Find out more about plants : www.terre-des-sciences.fr/actualites/vegetal/ About public events and business visits organised by VEGEPOLYS and its partners: www.vegepolys.eu/vegepolys-events/ the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 43

THE PLANT ODYSSEY

Animations

Les jardins extraordinaires - Angers

Located at the gates of Angers, Terra Botanica is Europe’s first themed park dedicated to plants and nature opened for its sixth season in mid April.

275,000 plants from six continents provide a unique journey that stretches around the world. From Madagascar to Brazil, Mexico to Japan via France and the Anjou, the variety, colour and structure of these plants is amazing. You will discover phosphorescent and carnivorus plants alongside exotic blooms and vegetables; there's even a tropical jungle...This is one expedition that you don't want to miss.

H : JOURNEY TO THE CENTRE OF THE EART visual An exclusive new 4D movie from by the effects guru Eric Brevig and inspired work of Jules Verne.

THERE IS NOTHING LIKE IT ON EARTH! Europe’s first themed park dedicated to plants and nature. At Terra Botanica, there are 110,000 m² of gardens, water features and greenhouses. Over 40 spectacular attractions and activities (including 4D projection screens, animated stories, interactive games, water courses, tree-top houses and much more); Divided into 4 distinct themed sections, Terra Botanica mixes the spectacle of nature with an understanding of life on our planet. A great day out for family and friends... it’s fun and it’s educational too!

TAKE THE TIME TO BE ASTONISHED! Turn the corner and discover something different, it’s almost as if time has stood still. Whether in the shade of an old oak storyteller, relaxing to the sound of cicadas in the Mediterranean gardens or amongst the rows of plants, (there are over 275,000 varieties), the atmosphere here is seductive and the air filled with differing aromas. This is a great way to relax …in the park for all seasons! 44

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

IS IT A PLANE? …IS IT A BIRD? NO… IT’S A BALLOON! red With 30 passengers on board, this tethe to the balloon will soar above the treetops you dizzy heights of 150 metres. From here, the can see the world of Terra Botanica and it’s an river basin beyond. Dare we say it? best in amazingly uplifting experience – the Western France.

GOLD IS SO LAST SEASON! forest, Deep in the heart of a Nordic Pine meet there’s a secret place...there you’ll her Amber who will invite you to work with is her in a search for the precious stone that namesake! • Visitor information p. 65

THE GARDENS AT THE CASTLE FORTIFIED WITH COLOUR vegeSpectacular hydrangea blooms, fruit, ations tables, old and new varieties, innov at the in cross-pollination...you’ll find it all ure Château d’Angers. There is also a treas try of trove of plant references in the Tapes at the the Apocalypse - a permanent exhibit intecastle. By the way, twitchers should be arts rested too because the castle’s ramp ent and eaves are home to many differ worker species of birds and the occasional bee (or more) collecting the pollen. L’Hortensia d’Angers is a spectacular exhibition of hydrangeas, open all through the summ er. And, on 5-7 June make your special reservation for an ‘appointment with the gardens’, where you can get a closer look at what make Angers so colourful.

PARKS, GARDENS AND FORESTS

a breath of fresh air in town LE JARDIN DU MAIL These gardens came into being around the 17th century, born of the “jeu du mail”, a now obsolete French lawn game. The fountain, by Barbezat, and the large pond (1855) make up the central axis where the geometrically-arranged paths converge. The paths flanked by greenery, the flower beds and the exceptional floral displays in summer are worth a visit.

LE JARDIN DES PLANTES These gardens, laden with history, were the city’s first botanical gardens. Today, the park’s 4 hectares are laid out in an English style garden dating from 1904-1905. Its footpaths, waterfalls and statues give it a serene and romantic atmosphere, a perfect antidote to the bustle of the city. Things to see: a remarkable collection of ancient trees and the small animal enclosure.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 45

THE PLANT ODYSSEY

snapshot LE PARC DE BALZAC A perfect place to stroll along the banks of the Maine near the city centre. The designers of this park were inspired by the marshes of the Poitou region to compose a partial network of canals that have created a nature reserve of great ecological diversity.

LA MAISON DE L’ENVIRONNEMENT Parc This special place at the centre of the for de Loisirs du Lac de Maine is a place and familiarising, educating, informing, t. teaching the public about the environmen e.fr main .lacde www at ation • More inform E LE PARC DE LOISIRS DU LAC DE MAIN

LE PARC DE L’ARBORETUM Covering an area of nearly 7 hectares, the Parc de L’Arboretum consists of four public gardens dedicated to horticulture and the spontaneous flora indigenous to the Angers area. Combining the art of gardening with fine arts, the various landscapes incorporate a collection of bronze sculptures by the artist François Cacheux.

LES PARCS SAINT-NICOLAS Bridging the gap between town and country, this semi-natural park covers over 112 hectares at the heart of the city. Around the Brionneau lake, explore the Parc des Carrières, the Parc de la Haye, the Parc de Belle- Beille and the Parc de la Garenne. Things to see: animal enclosures, play areas, children’s rides at the Parc de la Garenne. • Find all these parks and gardens & all those dotted around the city of Angers at www.angers.fr/Menu Vie Pratique/Environnement/Parcs & Jardins

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

ming, For relaxing, strolling, boating, swim ising observing plant and animal life, pract Come sport, eating, meeting or sleeping... de and explore the Parc de Loisirs du Lac , Maine, organised around the sailing centre the and site camp r 4-sta a s, Étape Éthic has Maison de l’Environnement. This park everything to keep you entertained: swing g, an golf, tennis courts, swimming, fishin torienteering course, volleyball and baske s, ball courts, football pitches, playground kayak-water polo pool...

LE PARC DES SABLIÈRES, RELAX BY THE WATER For swimming, strolling, fly fishing and more... the perfect park for adults and children alike! An ideal place for family outings. Nearby, experience the treetop adventure trails at the Parc Anjou Aventure..

LES JARDINS DE MONTRIOU, THE CHÂTEAU GARDENS At the bottom of a pretty valley is a landscaped park with majestic trees and neatly trimmed shrubs. Close by is the impressive kitchen garden and a succession of gardens including the “Jardin de la Princesse” with its eccentric arbors of cucurbitaceae.

PIGNEROLLE, EXPRESSIVE GARDENS An excellent example of French art de vivre, visitors will appreciate its landscaped gardens centred around the château, built in 1776, where art and nature come together beautifully. From June to September 2015, the garden is the setting for creative interpretations by the young people of Angers. 20 gardens designed by 27 students with a little help from the “Terre des Sciences”, all centred on the theme of ‘light’.

LE PARC ANDRÉ DELIBES, THE GARDENS OF THE MIDDLE AGES

PARC INTERCOMMUNAL DES GARENNES

Perfect for strolling, the undulating landscape of this park offers a surprising reconstitution of a motteand-bailey castle, the predecessor of fortified châteaux.

Today, these former opencast slate quarries, located at Juigné-sur-Loire and Saint-Jean-des-Mauvrets, form a 27-hectare park of unusual interest in terms of heritage, landscape and ecology.

LE PARC DES ARDOISIÈRES, BETWEEN MINERAL AND VEGETABLE

THE GARDENS AND GROUNDS OF THE CHÂTEAU DE BRISSAC

This former quarry, famous for its Angers slate has now been developed into a nature reserve of over 100 hectares in size. Alongside the deep pools of azure water, come and explore this remarkable setting crossed by the Eastern branch of the Angers circuit of the “Loire à Vélo” cycle route.

The gardens and grounds of the Château de Brissac offer some wonderful walks in the shade of hundred-year-old trees, along shady footpaths lined with flowers that wind their way around the lakes and along the Aubance river.

the on-site horticultural farm reproducing the tools of the trade, and an exceptional collection of plants. Entry to the collection greenhouses and to the arboretum.

BASE DE LOISIRS DE MALAGUÉ The lake of Malagué is located at Chaumont-d’Anjou, in the heart of a dense pine and oak forest, and delights adults and children alike every summer. It has a campsite and small restaurant with music, dancing and leisure activities like wake-boarding make it an ideal spot for spending wonderful days with the family.

ARBORETUM DE LA MÉNITRÉ For 40 years, the Centre National de Promotion Horticole (national centre for the promotion of horticulture) has prepared adults and young people for professions in market gardening and the production of flowers, ornamental and fruit trees, seeds and young plants. The CNPH’s originality lies in

• Find these parks and many more at www.angersloiremetropole.fr, “Parcs Communautaires” section. • Visitor information p. 63

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 47

JUNIOR FUNTIME

FOR THOSE WITH PARC DU HUTREAU in Angers A children’s fun paradise.

THE VILLAGE OF ACTIVITIES “ OXYLANE ” in Les Ponts de Cé For lovers of sports.

tons of energy

PARC ANJOU AVENTURE

PARCS D’AVENTURE,

At the heart of the forest of Écouflant, discover an adventure trail with a difference – it’s in the treetops! There are 9 courses suitable for beginners through to advanced athletes...choose your tree and away you go!

No matter what the season, no matter what the weather, this is the place to have fun! We mean lots of it and not just for kids. Plus the marmoset circus company 'Badaboum' and 'Skoubi parc'

(adventure park) at Écouflant

(indoor adventure park) in Angers

PARC DE LOISIRS DE L’ÉTANG

•w ww.parcanjouaventure.fr

A place in the countryside for fun with friends and family; donkey rides, inflatable castles, pedal boats, supervised swimming and a water slide, human table football (a sight to be seen) and many other games too!

Discover a whole range of activities for all the family that includes bowling, karting, paintball, ice skating, tennis... and much more!

(recreational lake) in Brissac-Quincé

• More information at www.angersloiretourisme.com

• www.parc-etang.com

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

• To find out more about the openning dates & hours

THE WORKINGS OF AN INGENIOUS AT VILLEVÊQUE

MILL

ive mill has Over the centuries, this impress neighbouring the for r pape and oil produced flour, of hydraulic case show a is it y, Toda . ities commun ’ to the close ‘up get engineering in action. You can Loir the of rs wate the used wheels and gears that for out day t grea A mill. e essiv impr this to power have will they well all the family, and for the kids, a friendly and their own guide in the form of ‘Léon’, ron. insightful elect

FOR THE CURIOUS

and the creative SERVICE VILLE D’ART ET D’HISTOIRE d’Angers

6 - 12 years

A series of fun workshops organised during the school holidays for kids into the history and heritage of Angers and it surrounding region. • www.angers.fr/sevah

THE CHÂTEAU of Angers… Tours and workshops for 4 - 12 year olds available during the school holidays.

THE MUSEUMS in Angers… During the school holidays there’s proof that work can be fun and exciting. A wide range of events that kids will find engaging, intriguing and entertaining! • www.musees.angers.fr

visitor information p. 65

ESPACE AIR PASSION

A CENTRE OF DISCOVERY

At Angers Loire airport, relive the adventures of the pioneers of aviation and share the incredible history of aeroplanes and gliders restored to working order by a team of enthusiasts. • www.musee-aviation-angers.fr

Le Centre de Découverte du Milieu Aquatique et de la Pêche is an exciting place where you can find out more about water, the environment, the wildlife along the riverbanks and aquatic flora.

MAISON DE LOIRE EN ANJOU

THE CHÂTEAU AND MUSEUM OF COMMUNICATION

at Marcé airport

at St-Mathurin-sur-Loire

This interpretive centre takes you on a journey of discovery along the Loire. In the school holidays, there’s a full programme of activities on land and water, including a treasure hunt, fishing, an adventure in the swamp (well marshlands!) and much more. • www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr

at Brissac-Quincé

at St Barthélemy d’Anjou

Here’s your chance to discover the world of communication, from prehistoric times through to today. There's plenty to see and do including recreational and educational events on the theme of science and technology including a series of science workshops... all available during the school holidays. • www.musee-communication.com the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 49

JUNIOR FUNTIME

Animal MAGIC EDUCATIONAL FARMS Discover a wide variety of animals and participate in various themed activities available during your visit. See the differing characteristics of animals, how they are fed and how to look after them. An 'edutainment' day down on the farm at Andard, Ecuillé, Jarzé and Montreuil-sur-Loir. • Visitor information p. 65

EQUESTRIAN CENTRES AND PONY CLUBS You can discover the world of the horse and learn how to ride. If you are already comfortable in the saddle then you can upgrade your riding skills! Introductory sessions, dressage, jumping or trail riding, it’s all available in the Angers Loire Valley.

‘FUN’ PARKS AND GARDENS The garden at Le Parc du Mail with pony riding and a carrousel. Le Parc de la Garenne, a riverbank location and some rather special goats… • More information p. 45 et p. 63

• List of equestrian centres and pony clubs available from tourist offices throughout the region

KIDIKLIK: CLICKING GOOD! A complete guide to all the locations suitable for kids up to the age of 12 years. • www.kidiklik.fr

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

• To find out more about the openning dates & hours

SPLASH

out!

SWIMMING POOLS AND RIVER PARKS Relax, learn to swim, practise your diving! There are lots of pools to suit your needs. And, in the summer months, you can chill-out in the shade of the trees and then make a splash at one of the outdoor bathing sites. • Visitor information p. 72

AQUAVITA (WATER FUN PARK) Covering just over an acre with easy access, AquaVita includes an outdoor pool (open all year round), a training pool, water slides, a spa pool with massage jets, a wading pool, a kids’ water space and a lazy river. Go on – take the plunge! • Visitor information p. 64 visitor information p. 65

Techy KIDS GEOCACHING in Angers All you need is a route planner, a GPS-enabled device (Smartphone or hiking/hand-held GPS) plus a little bit of gumption and hey presto! You are off for a stroll in Angers with the chance of finding some hidden 'treasure'! There are several different itineraries all leading to that 'final cache'. It’s lots of fun and a great way to explore the city.

APP: “ PISTE ET TRÉSOR ” in Angers

A fun app designed for both young and old 'treasure hunters'. It's interactive, full of riddles and puzzles… it's easy to download to either your iPhone or Smartphone. On the other hand, you can borrow from the Tourist Office a digital tablet with the app already installed.

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 51

MY PAD

AROUND ANGERS Paris A SHORT HOP FROM THE LOIRE VALLEY TO THE ATLANTIC COAST… Less than an hour’s drive from Angers is Nantes, a city of art and history that enjoys some remarkable cultural and natural heritage for you to enjoy... The Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Lieu Unique, the Ile Feydeau, the Île de Nantes and the famous Machines de l’Île… Fascinating places to discover or rediscover! Before heading for the coast for a dip, call in at the Port of Saint Nazaire and enter the lair of the giants of the sea: board the “Escal’Atlantic” imaginar y cruise ship or visit the naval shipyards that are as big as they are spectacular! • More information at www.nantes-tourisme.com and www.saint-nazaire-tourisme.com

Mont-Saint-Michel Rennes

ANGERS St-Nazaire

SAUMUR,

elegance…

Blois Tours

Nantes

Port-Saint-Père

La Flèche

Saumur

Cholet

Doué-la-Fontaine

Puy-du-Fou Futuroscope

Stand on the left bank of the Loire at Saumur and you are in the shadow of its famous château standing high on the limestone escarpment. Saumur has a distinct feel of elegance, celebrating art, wines and horses; it is home to the Cadre Noir, the French mounted cavalry regiment. • www.ot-saumur.fr

NOT TO BE MISSED : > The Bioparc Zoo of Doué la Fontaine, Europe’s largest aviary Discover more than 70 animal species in the middle of an unusual troglodyte setting! • www.zoodoue.fr

CHOLET,

> Cave-dwellings and mushroom beds, life underground Travel the length and breadth of the Saumur region’s underground passages, France’s largest concentration of cave-dwellings. Today, many of them are still used as homes, but some of these galleries house mushroom beds, wine cellars and restaurants… • www.ot-saumur.fr

> Ackerman, established in 1811, is the original sparkling wine of the region. Now you can take an extraordinary 'journey to the centre of the bubble' via a dramatic exhibition of art in the caves carved deep within the limestone cliffs of the Loire. • www.ackerman.fr

a land of textiles

Famous for its red handkerchief, just one of Cholet’s textile specialities has over time earned it the reputation as ‘ the capital of the handkerchief’. However, the city is famous for much more! If you prefer chocolate to fabric, call in at the Palais d'Or to taste the Mouchoir Rouge, a little square of praline almond paste covered in red and white chocolate. Delicious! • www.ot-cholet.fr

NOT TO BE MISSED : >P arc Oriental de Maulévrier The largest Japanese garden in Europe. Treat yourself to a visit full of exoticism, mystery and tranquillity! • www.parc-oriental.com

> Camifolia Discover this garden of medicinal, aromatic and dye-producing plants in Chemillé, where over 400 plant species with amazing properties are on show to the public. • www.theatre-foirail-camifolia.com the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 53

CULTURAL DIARY

• 5th April ∫ Grande chasse aux œufs de Pâques - "Easter egg hunt" hâteau de Brissac C oth young and old go in search of 50,000 chocolate eggs hidden in the undergrowth and B gardens of the park at the castle. www.chateau-brissac.fr - +33 (0)2 41 91 22 21

• 10-13th April ∫ Flower festival hâteau de Brissac C ith a different theme each year, this unique decorative flower festival is a window onto W the world of competitive flower growing in the Loire Valley. www.chateau-brissac.fr - +33 (0)2 41 91 22 21

• 8th May ∫ Antique & book fair hâteau de Brissac C here are over 50 exhibitors showing their curios and collections in the castle's stables and park. You T will find everything from trinkets to old tools, from toys to old maps and books and much more. www.chateau-brissac.fr - +33 (0)2 41 91 22 21

• 10th May ∫ Heritage and tasting festival - Savennières n this special day, you have a chance to walk the vineyards of Savennières and then O sample the grape creation that make this region so important in the French wine industry. www.savennieres.fr - +33 (0)2 41 72 85 00

• 14-17th May ∫ Les grands pique-niques - Château de Brissac picnic with a difference! Within the shadow of the towers of Château de Brissac, you can A come to paint or watch other artists; take photos of the wildlife and flowering meadows around the lake or just chill-out and enjoy the day in the grounds of France's tallest château. www.chateau-brissac.fr - +33 (0)2 41 91 22 21

THE REGION’S TOURIST OFFICES HAVE INFORMATION ABOUT ALL THE EVENTS HAPPENING IN THE LOCAL AREA. Angers and the local area: a full programme of events taking place in and around the city including guided tours, spectacular events, heritage discovery trails and sites, the environment and much more! Loire-Aubance: offers a programme of heritage discovery visits at sites along the Loire. It has plenty of suggestions for those who want to explore the vineyards of the region. There’s also a full programme of events and interpretive walks through this beautiful landscape! Loire Authion: a calendar full of events for family groups and couples including two concerts to be held on the banks of the river. There are organised walks (12 July and 23 August) cruises down the Loire and cocktails aboard a boat where you do not have to worry about who’s driving (all aboard!). Loir en Anjou: events throughout the season, afternoon heritage discovery tours, guided tours of the local historic villages, a week dedicated to celebrating the expertise of local businesses…you name it, they’ve got it!

• 17th May ∫ La baillée des filles 536e édition - Douves du château Les Ponts de Cé A unique medieval festival in Angers. www.ville-lespontsdece.fr +33 (0)2 41 79 71 05

• 31st May ∫ Loire Mystery ; “Between parks and gardens” - La Ménitré themed event held in association with A the Centre National de Danse Contemporaine (CNDC) Angers and artists from the local area. Christian Bourigault presents choregraphy of contemporary dance alongside a market, gardening workshops and lots of other street entertainment throughout the day. Office de tourisme Loire-Authion +33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

• 5th-7th June ∫ A rendez-vous with the gardens of Angers - Angers chance to explore the many parks and A gardens of Angers including the magnificent display of hydrangeas at the castle.

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

• June - September ∫ Jardins d’expression - Pignerolle Park St Barthélemy d’Anjou Celebrating creation and innovation in plants, there are 20 ephemeral gardens featured in this summer festival. A theme of the "Wind of Madness" showcases the work of students and businesses who are part of the Végépolys co-operative. Also featured are 27 gardens designed around the theme of light and created by students studying soil sciences. www.angersloiremetropole.fr

• 8-27th June ∫ Festival d’Anjou Everywhere in the department rance 2nd largest theatre festival, the F Festival d'Anjou attracts over 25,000 visitors every year. The festival includes around 15 shows and more than 20 events. Performances take place every evening in the open air, beside the castles and historical buildings of the department. www.festivaldanjou.com +33 (0)2 41 88 14 14

• 14 June ∫ Fête du vélo en Anjou On the levée of the Loire he biggest meeting of bikes in Europe! T One of the most beautiful roads in France is reserved for bike riding for the day. The 20,000 expected visitors are guaranteed car-free and 100% natural environment or over 100 miles. A recreational and family atmosphere, allowing the public to discover the banks and villages of the Loire and its tributaries. www.anjou-velo.com +33 (0)2 41 81 49 49

• 27th June - 29th August ∫ Festival Estival de Trélazé - Trélazé

• 28th June ∫ À la Pointe de l’Art ouchemaine B journey of art through the gardens of A La Pointe. www.ville-bouchemaine.fr +33 (0)2 41 22 20 00

• 28 June ∫ Rando Vel’Authion Andard ake a mountain bike and explore this T newly landscaped trail along the banks of the river Authion. Office de tourisme Loire-Authion +33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

• 19th July, 23rd August ∫ Concerts at the chapelle de Montplacé - Jarzé L 'association de Sauvegarde de la Chapelle de Montplacé (the local association for the preservation of the chapel) organises classical concerts featuring renowned musicians playing the flute, the cello and piano. www.chapelle-montplace.com

very year, over 70,000+ music lovers turn E out for this eclectic music festival, now in its 20th anniversary year. This year's closing concert is for all head bangers, as Status Quo take to the stage to rock you! www.festival-estival.fr +33 (0)2 41 33 74 85

• July & August ∫ Angers, goes wild! City center - Angers

• 27th June - 23rd August ∫ Nov’art, art trail - Villevêque

I n the ancient quarter of Villevêque, heritage meets contemporary. Each year a dozen international artists take over the streets and parks to present art in its various forms but always on a grand scale. It's a visual experience like no other you have seen before and neither have the local inhabitants - as there's something new, every year! www.villeveque.fr - +33 (0)2 41 69 51 15

I n the heart of the city, the Place du Ralliement is turned into a gigantic summer garden, with a whole range of activities including evening concerts, special guided visits, cultural and sports events. For those who just want to soak-up the atmosphere... there's a "beach"! www.angersloiretourisme.com +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

ART DOCKSIDE LE QUAI FORUM DES ARTS VIVANTS Show venue, a creative space and a meetings auditorium, Le Quai has large forum and two theatres, chalking-up 200+ performances a year:

www.lequai-angers.eu +33 (0)2 41 22 20 20

> Theatre with the NTA (National Drama Centre Loire) 6th June : “One Saturday in town” > Dance with the CNDC (National Centre for Contemporary Dance)

27th April - 15th  May : Exhibition “Homage to Jean-Claude Gallotta” and 2 special events > Circus, music, young performers, visual art all staged by EPCC - Le Quai (the public organisation

responsible for cultural cooperation)

10 - 16th April 2015 : Festival CIRQUE[S]

> Lyrical arts with Angers Nantes Opéra

THE MUSEUMS OF ANGERS A full programme of events and exhibitions throughout the year. More information p 11

GRAND THÉÂTRE D’ANGERS in the Place du Ralliement, in the heart of Angers, this Italian-style theatre offers a wide range of entertainment, from concerts and theatre to chamber and baroque music, jazz, choral music and opera. With its eclectic programme and superb building constructed in 1789, the Grand Théâtre has become a key venue for cultural life in the Angers region. www.angers.fr +33 (0)2 41 24 16 40 41

ORCHESTRE NATIONAL DES PAYS DE LA LOIRE The National Orchestra of the Pays de la Loire gives over 200 performances in both Angers and Nantes and throughout the region. As well as performing symphonic works, the orchestra takes part in the Angers-Nantes Opera season. It also plays an active role in developing a taste for classical music amongst the young, particularly via its educational concerts programme. www.onpl.fr - +33 (0)2 41 24 11 20

www.musees.angers.fr THE COLLEGIATE OF ST MARTIN Exhibitions and events throughout the year. More information p 11 www.collegiale-saint-martin.fr

RIVE D’ARTS - CREATIVITY ON THE BANKS OF THE LOIRE Open all year round - Access FREE! rue Boutreux - 49130 Les Ponts-de-Cé - www.ville-lespontsdece.fr +33 (0)2 41 79 76 07 (point info tourisme) - tourisme@ville-lespontsdece.fr

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 55

CULTURAL DIARY

• July and August ∫ Summer events on the river - Au fil de l’eau he Loire de Lumière boats will take you T literally on a voyage of discovery. These themed events include an aperitif cruise with tasting of local wines; twilight trips to check out the local wildlife; themed music nights and bird watching tours. Every evening in July an August. www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr +33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

• 4-5th July ∫ Fête de la Rillaudée Brissac-Quincé rganised by the Festival Committee of O Brissac-Quincé +33 (0)6 12 83 66 44

• 4-5  July ∫ Les Montgolfiades Brissac-Quincé th

1 5 balloons rendezvous at Brissac Quincé. Over two days, they fly between the village and over the vineyards to the river. A photo spectacle, this is an event not to be missed! www.arcencieldanjou.com +33 (0)2 41 91 21 50

• 2 & 16  May, 10  July 28th August ∫ Aperitif cruises t Mathurin-sur-Loire ou la Menitré S nd

very Friday evening at 18h30, E all aboard one of Loire de Lumière boats for this 90-minutes narrated cruise and wine tasting!. www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr +33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

• 13th July - 19th August ∫ Tempo Rives ale de la Savatte, Angers C n annual contemporary music festival A held on the banks of the river Maine. It's a surprising celebration of talent with international artists sharing the bill with local Angers musical talent. www.angers.fr – +33 (0)2 41 05 41 48

• 13th July ∫ Tempo Vigne ale de la Savatte, Angers C unique festival held in a vineyard in A the heart of Angers. Lots to see and do! www.angers.fr

• 25-26th July ∫ 62e Festival international de Folklore d’Anjou et du Monde - La Ménitré colourful folk festival on the banks of A the Loire. A programme that features local, regional and international talent. Plus a fireworks display on 25th July. Office de tourisme Loire-Authion +33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

• 25-26th July ∫ Foire aux lumas auchrétien V ome and celebrate the 55 anniversary C of this unmissable event in Loire- Aubance, where over 150,000 snails are eaten each year. Free entrance. www.foire-aux-lumas.com +33 (0)2 41 74 94 69 th

• 15-16th August ∫ Montmartre à Briollay - Briollay xhibition and painters in the streets. E www.briollay.fr – +33 (0)2 41 42 16 84

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MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

• 30th August ∫ Fête de la plate et de l’artisanat - B ehuard - +33 (0)2 41 72 84 11 • 5-6th September ∫ Vineyards, wine and hiking - Anjou "not to miss event" in the Loire wine A tourism calendar. w ww.vvr-valdeloire.fr More information p. 45

• 11-13th September ∫ Les “ Accroche-Coeurs ” - Angers he city of Angers and Acqua Viva T Production come together to enhance your holiday experience and introduce you to a street art festival. Artists are in town with the Accroche-Coeurs (the “kiss-curls”) performing: theatre, music, film, circuses, dance, plastic arts… All of the shows are free and suitable for all audiences. www.angers.fr/accrochecoeurs +33 (0)2 41 05 41 29

• 19-20th September ∫ Heritage day heme: Heritage of the 21st century. T www.angersloiretourisme.com +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

• 25th September ∫ Nuit Européenne des chercheurs Château d’Angers www.terre-des-sciences.fr

• 26th September ∫ Foire St Maurice, la plus ancienne Foire d’Anjou Brissac-Quincé www.brissac-quince.fr - 02 41 91 74 00

• 23-31st January 2016 ∫ Festival Premiers Plans Centre des congrès d’Angers n unmissable event in the local, A regional and national cultural agenda, this annual festival offers a selection of around a hundred first films by young European directors as well as tributes and retrospectives. www.premiersplans.org +33 (0)2 41 88 92 94

• February 2016 ∫ Made in Angers A showcase for 130 production companies and 50 other businesses, all collaborating to demonstrate why Angers is a hotbed of industry and economic development. www.angersloiretourisme.com +33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

• 25-27th September ∫ Festival Fabul’eau Communauté de communes du Loir

• 24-25th October ∫ The 26es Hortomnales – St Remy-la-Varenne

his year's open-air cultural festival will T take place in the Loir towns of Sermaise, Cornillé-les-caves and la Chapelle St Laud. More information p. 49

• 4th October ∫ 23rd Autumn market Cornillé les Caves This important market day brings together over 70 local artisans, including glass engravers, stonemasons, jewellery makers, painters, local products and so much more. +33 (0)2 41 45 15 32

• 7th-10th October ∫ The Festival of Science www.terre-des-sciences.fr

" Squash" to you and me and we mean the vegetable! A festival of colour and flavour. Unbelievably there are 575 varieties in the national collection and local growers attempt to find another. Unusual and fun... it's definitely worth a visit. www.prieure-saint-remy.fr +33 (0)2 41 57 32 32

• November ∫ St-Martin's fair place La Rochefoucault – Angers he carnival begins on the first weekend T in November and lasts through to the last weekend of the month. Not to be missed, it is one the biggest fairs of its kind in Western France!

FIND MORE DETAILS OF THESE EVENTS AND MUCH MORE AT:

www.angersloiretourisme.com and www.sceno.fr THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS GRAND MARCHÉ ANIMÉ DE NOËL

22 e MARCHÉ GOURMAND DE NOËL DE LA TUFFIÈRE 12th and 13th december Lué-en-Baugeois.

21st and 22nd November The Château de Brissac-Quincé. www.chateau-brissac.fr +33 (0)2 41 91 22 21

+33 (0)2 41 45 11 47

December Center of Angers.

MARCHÉ DE NOËL FRANCO-ALLEMAND 5th and 6th december Seiches-sur-le-Loir.

PÈRE NOËL DES AVIATEURS 13th december Espace Air Passion.

www.angers.fr - +33 (0)2 41 05 40 00

+33 (0)2 41 76 25 42

www.musee-aviation-angers.fr

SOLEILS D’HIVER

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 57

VISITOR INFORMATION

CONTACT DETAILS AND OPENING HOURS OF THE TOURIST OFFICES

Angers Loire Métropole Tourist Office & Booking Office

Brissac-Loire Aubance Tourist Office

Loire-Authion Tourist Office

Le Loir en Anjou Tourist Office

7 place Kennedy BP 15157 49051 Angers CEDEX 02

8 place de la République 49320 Brissac-Quincé

Place du Port Charles Sigogne 49250 Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire

14 bis, rue Henri Régnier 49140 Seiches-sur-le-Loir

J+33 (0)2 41 91 21 50

J+33 (0)2 41 57 01 82

Çinfo@ot-loire-authion.fr

J+33 (0)2 41 60 46 78 n+33 (0)6 79 98 44 79

> From 02/05 to 30/06 & from 01/09 to 30/09 Mon. to Sat. 10-12:30pm/2-6pm bank holidays 10am - 1pm > Du 01/07 to 31/08 Mon. to Sat. 10-12:30pm/2-6pm Sun. & bank holidays 10am - 1pm > Du 01/10 to 30/04 Mon. to Fri. 1 - 5pm Thu. 9:30am - 1pm/2 - 5pm

> From 01/07 to 31/08 Every day : 10am - 6:30pm > From 11/04 to 30/06 & from 01/09 to 01/11 Tue. to Sat. 10-12:30pm/2-6pm closed on wednesday mornings Sun. & bank holidays 2 - 6 pm > From 02/11 to 10/04 Tue. 10 - 12:30pm Wed. to Fri. 2 - 5:30pm Sat. 10 - 12:30pm/2 - 5:30pm > Closed on weekends from 01/01 to 01/02 & from 02/11 to 31/12

> From 01/01 to 30/01 Mon. to Fri. 10am - 1pm/2 - 5pm closed on Wednesday > From 01/02 to 31/03 Mon. to Fri. 9am - 5pm closed on Wednesday > From 01/04 to 12/07 from 17/08 to 31/12 Mon. to Fri. 9 - 12 noon/1 - 4pm closed on Wednesday > Du 13/07 to 16/08 Wed. to Sat. 9 - 12 noon/1 - 4pm

(Société d’Économie Mixte Locale IM 049100006)

J+33 (0)2 41 23 50 00

Çaccueil@angersloiretourisme.com www.angersloiretourisme.com > From 16/06 to 15/09 Mon. 10am - 7pm Tue. to Sat. 9am - 7pm Sun. & bank holidays 10am - 6pm > From 16/09 to 30/09 & from 02/05 to 15/06 Mon. 10am - 6:30pm Tue. to Sat. 9am - 6:30pm Sun. & bank holidays 10am - 6pm > From 01/10 to 30/04 Every day 10am - 5:30pm, Closed on Tuesday mornings Closed on Sunday afternoon • Closed on 1st May & 25th décember

Çaccueil@ot-brissac-loire-aubance.fr

Çtourismeduloir.enanjou@gmail.com

Maison du Port 38, boulevard Henri Arnauld - Angers > April, may, june et sept. Every day 2:30am - 6:30pm, > July & august Every day 10 - 12:30pm/2:30 - 7pm

MARKET DAYS > TUESDAY 8am - 1pm Place Ney, Angers Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire > THURSDAY 8am - 1pm Place Bichon, Angers Place Clémenceau, Brissac-Quincé Seiches-sur-le-Loir > FRIDAY 4 - 7pm rs Square Chevillard - rue St Julien, Ange (local products market)

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

> SATURDAY 8am - 1:30pm s) Place Imbach (marché des brocanteur Mendès-France/Leclerc/Lafayettecentre-ville) Bd Bessonneau (grand marché du Place Molière (organic market) Place Grégoire Bordillon, Angers on request omplete list of the markets available •C at the tourist offices

* Prices quoted are subject to change in 2015

MUSEUM AND ¿ UNMISSABLE SITES Collégiale Saint-Martin 11

Opening Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days hours Adult/ child Other Info 02/01 to 31/05 01/10 to 31/12

Closed on 01/01, 01 & 08/05, 01 & 11/11, 25/12. Extra fee for temporary exhibition

4 € Reduced 3 € Free for under 26s

Closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01 & 11/11, 25/12.

10am-6pm

4 € Reduced 3 € Free for under 26s

Closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01 & 11/11, 25/12.

2-6pm

4 € Reduced 3 € Free for under 26s

Closed on bank holidays (except Ascension Day and Assumption Day).

1:30-6pm

4 € Reduced 2,50 € Free for under 12s

Groups by appointment (except in Januray). Family ticket.

4 € Reduced 3 € Free for under 26s

Closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01 et 11/11, 25/12.

Free

Guided tours by appointment. Groups all year round by appointment.

1pm-6pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-7pm

02/01 to 30/04 22/09 to 31/12

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6pm

J+33 (0)2 41 05 38 90 - www.musees.angers.fr

02/05 to 20/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-6pm

Musée des Beaux-Arts

02/01 to 30/04 22/09 to 31/12

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/06 to 30/09

Galerie David d'Angers

33, bis, rue Toussaint - 49100 ANGERS

14, rue du Musée - 49100 ANGERS

J+33 (0)2 41 05 38 00 - www.musees.angers.fr

Muséum des Sciences Naturelles

43, rue Jules Guitton - 49100 ANGERS

J+33 (0)2 41 05 48 50 - www.angers.fr/museum

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2/05 to 20/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round

Musée du Génie 24

3 € Reduced 2 € Free for under 18s

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

23, rue Saint-Martin - 49100 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 81 16 00 www.collegiale-saint-martin.fr

106, rue Eblé - 49000 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 24 83 16 www.musee-du-genie-angers.fr

Musée Jean-Lurçat et de la tapisserie contemporaine 4, boulevard Arago - 49100 ANGERS

J+33 (0)2 41 24 18 45 - www.musees.angers.fr

Fabrique des Bières d'Anjou

La Gare - 49250 La Ménitré J+33 (0)2 41 57 62 78 - www.lapiautre.fr

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/03 to 18/12

02/01 to 30/04 22/09 to 31/12

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6pm

02/05 to 20/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-6pm 9:30-12 noon 2:30-6:30pm Guided tours at 11am and 3pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round

Brasserie artisanale de Bouchemaine

36, rue des Moulins - Pruniers 49080 BOUCHEMAINE -J+33 (0)6 60 02 62 55 Çbrasserie@belledemaine.fr www.belledemaine.fr

Every day by appointment

Brasserie Dumnac Beers

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

Fri. 4-7pm Sat. 10-12 noon

01/04 to 30/06 01/09 to 30/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2-6pm

01/07 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

16/04 to 15/10

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2-6pm Sun. 3-7pm

1/07 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon/2-6pm Sun. 10-12am 3-7pm

16/10 to 15/04

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round 13, rue Rouget de Lisle 49130 LES PONTS-DE-CÉJ+33 (0)2 41 91 01 61

Château-Musée des Coiffes et des Traditions 24

4, avenue Charles-de-Gaulle 49130 LES PONTS-DE-CÉ J+33 (0)2 41 79 75 79 www.ville-lespontsdece.fr

Espace Air Passion 24

23 24 23 24

Angers Loire Aéroport 49140 MARCÉJ+33 (0)2 41 33 04 10 www.musee-aviation-angers.fr

Carré Cointreau

Boulevard des Bretonnières 49124 SAINT-BARTHELEMY-D'ANJOU

J+33 (0)2 41 31 50 50 - www.carre-cointreau.fr

Giffard Espace Menthe-Pastille

Chemin du Bocage - ZA La Violette 49241 AVRILLÉ J+33 (0)2 41 18 85 14 - www.giffard.com

Free

10-12 noon/2-6pm

3 € Reduced 2,30 € Free for under 12s

Groups all year round by appointment.

6 € 3 € from 7 to 18 years, students & disabled Free for under 7s

Open daily during French hols (zone A) 2-6pm. Groups all year round by appointment (except monday).

Closed on monday mornings

2-6pm

For opening times and guided tours, contact us Booking required

10 € / Reduced 9 € 3,80 € from 12 to 17 years Free for under 12s (accompanied)

For opening times and guided tours, contact us Booking required

5,50 € 4 € stud. Free for under 12s

the

Shop open all year from Tuesday to Friday, 2 - 6pm.

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 59

VISITOR INFORMATION Château-Musée de la Communication

24 49

Château de Pignerolle 49124 SAINT-BARTHELEMY-D’ANJOU J+33 (0)2 41 93 38 38 www.musee-communication.com

Maison de Loire en Anjou

20, Levée du Roi René 49250 SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE J+33 (0)2 41 57 37 55 www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr

31 49

Prieuré bénédictin de St-Rémy-la-Varenne

Place de l'Église 49250 ST-REMY-LA-VARENNE J+33 (0)2 41 57 32 32 www.prieure-saint-remy.fr

Musée de l'Ardoise

32, chemin de la Maraîchère 49800 TRÉLAZÉJ+33 (0)2 41 69 04 71 www.lemuseedelardoise.fr

01/02 to 31/03 01/09 to 31/12

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/04 to 31/08

Mo.* Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

holidays zone A

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/01 to 08/02

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.*

09/02 to 10/04

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2-5pm

11/04 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12:30pm/2-6pm Sun. 2:30-6pm

01/05 to 31/05

10-12:30pm 2:30-6pm *from 01/04 to 31/05 : closed on monday

2-5pm (*Sun. 2:30-5:30pm)

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/06 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa.* Su.*

01/09 to 15/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

15/02 to 30/06 01/09 to 15/11

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa.* Su.*

01/07 to 31/08

2:30-6pm

+Bank holidays Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su. +Bank holidays

02/01 to 31/12

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

44, rue du Général de Gaulle 49140 VILLEVÊQUEJ+33 (0)2 41 76 88 07 www.musees.angers.fr

L’Engrenage – Moulin de Villevêque

15/04 to 15/06 15/09 to 15/10

J+33 (0)2 41 69 51 15 - www.moulindevilleveque.fr

16/06 to 14/09

Rue du Port - 49140 VILLEVÊQUE

¿ CHÂTEAUX Château d'Angers et tenture de l'Apocalypse

16 17

2, promenade du Bout du Monde 49100 ANGERSJ+33 (0)2 41 86 48 77 www.angers.monuments-nationaux.fr

Château de Brissac

49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 91 22 21 www.chateau-brissac.fr

Château de Vaux

02/01 to 31/12

Vaux - 49140 CHAUMONT-D'ANJOU J+33 (0)2 41 95 42 04 Parks & gardens in the Pays de la Loire

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

Closed for works from September

Groups all year round by appointment. If guided tour : 4 €/personne.

10-12 noon & 2:30-6:30pm

4,10 €/7,20 € Reduced from 3,30 € to 5,65 €, 2,10 €/4,20 € (6-16 years) Free for under 6s

All year visit showroom. Demonstration of splitting ardoise slate 4pm daily during tourist season

2-5pm

Prices 4 € Family ticket

2-6pm

2 € Reduced 1 € Free for under 26s

3-6pm 10-12 noon & 2-5pm (*2:30-6:30pm)

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10:30-12:15pm & 2:30-6pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10:30-12:15pm & 2:30-7pm

Park opened: May to Sept.: 10am to 20pm & Oct. to the end of April: 10am to 5pm. Museum closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01 et 11/11, 25/12.

Opening Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days hours Adult/ child Other Info 05/09 to 30/04

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-5:30pm 8,50 € Reduced 6,50 € Free for under 26s

Last access 45 min before closing. Closed on 01/01, 01/05 01 et 11/11, 25/12.

10 € Reduced 8,50 € Child 8/16 ans 4,50 € Free for under 8s

Guided tours only. Groups by appointment. Entry to grounds without the castle : 5 €.

2-7pm

Free

By appointment.

Guided tours: contact us

02/05 to 04/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su. Guided tours: contact us

9:30am6:30pm

01/04 to 30/06 01/09 to 31/10

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12:15pm 2-6pm

01/07 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-6pm

01/11 to 31/03

02/07 to 07/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

(Ressortissants UE)

Gratuit les 1er Sun. de chaque mois de déc. à mars

The National Monuments Centre, a public body, protects, restores, manages and opens up a network of almost 100 State-owned buildings (abbeys, castles, prehistoric caves, archaeological sites, etc.).

Destination Anjou, a club of 83 professionnals (tourist sites, restaurants, hotels) committed to providing a high quality service.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

Groups by appointment for guided tours. Closed in Christmas holidays.

See the website

J+33 (0)2 41 76 28 27 www.musee-boissons.com

Musée Château de Villevêque

5 € Reduced 2,50 € Family ticket (2 Adults + 2 Child) 13 € Free for under 7s

Closed on January, 01/05, 11/11, 24-25-31/12. Groups by appointment.

3-6pm 10-12 noon & 2-6pm (*2:30-6:30pm)

Musée des boissons et de la sommellerie 46, rue des Ponts-de-Cé 49130 SAINTE-GEMMES-SUR-LOIRE

5,50 € Reduced 4,70 € 2,50 € from 12 to 18 years Free for under 12s

Bikes welcome. A national brand that groups together approve businesses (accomodation, bike hire/repairs, tourist information) and caters to tourists travelling by bike. * Prices quoted are subject to change in 2015

¿ CHÂTEAUX (cont.)

Château du Plessis Bourré 19

Opening Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days hours Adult/ child Other Info 14/02 to 31/03 01/10 to 10/11

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

02/04 to 13/07 01/09 to 30/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

14/07 to 31/07

49460 ÉCUILLÉ J+33 (0)2 41 32 06 72 www.plessis-bourre.com

Château de Montriou

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6pm

01/08 to 15/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-6pm

16/08 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6pm

13/11 to 29/11

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

49460 FENEUJ+33 (0)2 41 93 30 11 www.chateau-de-montriou.com

01/07 to 31/08

Château du Plessis-Macé

11/04 to 31/05 01/09 to 01/11

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/07 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2 rue de Bretagne - 49770 LE PLESSIS-MACÉ J+33 (0)2 41 32 67 93 www.chateauplessismace.fr

2-6pm

10 € Reduced 8 € Child 6 € Free for under 7s

2-6pm

+Bank holidays

1:30-6pm 10:30am6:30pm

5 € Free for under 12s

7 €/5 € 4 € 7 to 12 years Free for under 7s

Visits only for the chapel & the gardens. Groups by appointment. Individual travel by appoint. in June, Sept. & Oct.

Groups by appointment all year round. Fixed price family.

Château à Motte de la Haie Joulain Parc André Delibes 49480 SAINT-SYLVAIN-D’ANJOU J+33 (0)2 41 21 12 82 www.ville-saint-sylvain-anjou.fr

VINEYARDS AND WINE GROWING (p. 37)

Only open site during animations. To address itself to the town hall of Saint-Sylvain-d'Anjou

Opening Openning Openning Comments dates days hours

Château de Bois Brinçon

Le Bois Brinçon - 49320 BLAISON-GOHIER J+33 (0)2 41 57 19 62 www.chateau-bois-brincon.com

Domaine de Bablut

Bablut - 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 91 22 59 - www.vignobles-daviau.fr

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9:30-12 noon 2-6pm

Closed on bank holidays. Discovery trail through the vineyards in high season (ask for prices).

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9-12 noon 2-6:30pm

Sunday & bank holidays by appointment.

9-12:30am 2-6pm Open on Sat. from 9-12:30pm

Booking your visit is recommanded. Closed on bank holidays.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6pm

Group by appointment. Closed on bank holidays & closed during the second half of august.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9-12 noon 2-6pm

Closed on bank holidays.

9-12 noon 2-7pm Sat. 9am-1pm/ 3-6pm

Closed on bank holidays.

9-12:30pm 2-6:30pm

Closed on Monday mornings and on Saturday. Afternoon from 01/01 to 31/03.

Domaine de la Belle Étoile

La Belle étoile - 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)6 62 32 99 40 www.domaine-belle-etoile.fr

Domaine de la Gonorderie

49320 BRISSAC-QUINCE -J02 41 91 22 80 n+33 (0)6 71 52 00 97 - www.gonorderie.fr

Domaine de Sainte-Anne

49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ -J+33 (0)2 41 91 24 58 www.domaine-sainteanne.com

Domaine du Clos des Mailles

Les Jauraux - 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 47 28 54 - www.leclosdesmailles.com

All year round

Les Caves de la Loire

Route de Vauchrétien 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 91 28 79 - www.cavesdelaloire.com

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

the

Labels Other Info

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 61

VISITOR INFORMATION WINEGROWERS (cont.) (p. 43)

Opening Opening Opening Comments dates days hours

Labels Other Info

Domaine des Deux Moulins 20 route de Martigneau 49610 JUIGNÉ-SUR-LOIRE J+33 (0)2 41 54 65 14 www.domaine2moulins.com

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9-12 noon & 2-7pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

8-12:30pm 2-7pm

By appointment, guided tour of the vineyard and the troglodyte cave followed by a commentated tasting session.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9:30-12 noon 2:30-7pm

Closed on bank holidays.

Domaine de la Tuffière

La Tuffière - 49140 LUÉ-EN-BAUGEOIS J+33 (0)2 41 45 11 47 www.vignoble-tuffiere.com

Domaine de la Bourrelière

La Bourrelière - 49130 MÛRS-ÉRIGNÉ J+33 (0)2 41 57 76 76

All year round

Domaine du Gué d'Orger

La Piquellerie 49130 SAINTE-GEMMES-SUR-LOIRE n+33 (0)6 14 76 66 01 - www.loicmahe.fr

All year round

Domaine de Haute Perche

7, chemin de la Godelière 49610 SAINT-MELAINE-SUR-AUBANCE J+33 (0)2 41 57 75 65 www.domainehauteperche.com

Domaine des Bonnes Gagnes

Orgigné - 49320 SAINT-SATURNIN-SUR-LOIRE J+33 (0)2 41 91 22 76 - www.hery-vignerons.com

By appointment only. Contact us

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9-12 noon 2-6:30pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2:30-6:30pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9-12 noon 2-7pm

Booking your visit is recommended.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 2-6:30pm

By appointment on weekends. Closed on bank holidays.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

Closed to 5:30pm

Open on Monday to Sunday, except on bank holidays. Groups by appointment only.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9:30-12:30pm 2-7pm

Sundays mornings & bank holidays by appointment only. Groups,contact us. Closed on 25/12 & 01/01.

All year round

Château d'Épiré

Rue de l'Ancienne Église - ÉPIRÉ 49170 SAVENNIÈRES J+33 (0)2 41 77 15 01 - www.chateau-epire.com

All year round

Clos de la Coulée de Serrant

Château de la Roche aux Moines 49170 SAVENNIERES

All year round

J+33 (0)2 41 72 22 32 - www.coulee-de-serrant.com

Domaine aux Moines

Chemin de la Roche-aux-Moines 49170 SAVENNIERES -J+33 (0)2 41 72 21 33 www.domaine-aux-moines.com

Domaine du Closel-Château des Vaults

1 place du Mail - 49170 SAVENNIERES J+33 (0)2 41 72 81 00 www.savennieres-closel.com

Domaine Taillandier

Varennes - 49170 SAVENNIERES J+33 (0)2 41 72 23 70

All year round

01/04 to 31/10

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-7pm Closed at Christmas, Easter and 01/01.

01/11 to 31/03

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round

10am-6pm 10-12:30pm 2-7pm 7:30pm on summer

Closed during harvest in October.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10-12 noon 3-6pm

Closed at Christmas, Easter and 01/01.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

2-7:30pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

6-7:30pm

All year round by appointment

EARL Damien Laureau

Chemin du Grand Hamé - Epiré 49170 SAVENNIERES J+33 (0)9 64 37 02 57 - www.damien-laureau.fr

Closed on bank holidays.

Domaine de Rochambeau

Rochambeau 49610 SOULAINES-SUR-AUBANCE J+33 (0)2 41 57 82 26 www.domainederochambeau.com

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

By appointment at other times.

all day

* Prices quoted are subject to change in 2015

WINEGROWERS (cont.) (p. 43)

Opening Opening Opening Comments dates days hours

Domaine de Conquessac

Les Landes - 49320 VAUCHRETIEN J+33 (0)6 82 34 65 19 www.domainedeconquessac.com

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

Domaine des Giraudières

Les Giraudières - 49320 VAUCHRETIEN J+33 (0)2 41 91 24 00 www.domainedesgiraudieres.com

Domaine Dittière

Chemin de la Grouas - 49320 VAUCHRETIEN J+33 (0)2 41 91 23 78 - www.domainedittiere.com

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

9am-6pm

Closed in August.

9-12 noon 2-7pm 5pm on Sat.

Closed on bank holidays except on Monday Easter.

9-12 noon 2-6:30pm 6pm on Sat.

Closed on bank holidays Open the 3rd weekend in March and December.

Labels Other Info

“ Vignobles & Découvertes ” - The label of quality and commitment. More information p. 38

PARKS, GARDENS, NATURE RESERVES Jardins du château de Préfontaine

Île Saint Aubin 49100 ANGERS

Préfontaine - 49140 LEZIGNÉ J+33 (0)2 41 76 98 02 (sur RDV min 10 pers.)

Jardin des Plantes

Jardin Méditerranéen et jardins du Presbytère

Ferme de l’Île Saint Aubin (ouverte selon accessibilité)

Place Mendès France 49100 ANGERS

Jardins du château (jardins intérieurs)

2, promenade du Bout du Monde 49100 ANGERS

Jardin du Mail

Jardin du Musée Saint-Jean

Boulevard Arago - 49100 ANGERS

(200 ha) 49 avenue du Lac de Maine 49000 ANGERS -J02 41 22 32 20 www.lacdemaine.fr

Parc de l’Arboretum

7, rue du Château d’Orgemont 49100 ANGERS

Parcs Saint-Nicolas

The corner of Rue La Bruyère and Camus Boulevard - 49100 ANGERS

Route de la Grimorelle 49000 ÉCOUFLANT

Parc intercommunal des Garennes 47

Château de Montriou 49460 FENEU J+33 (0)2 41 93 30 11

Avenue du Parc ou Rue de la Forêt de Verrières 49480 SAINT-SYLVAIN-D’ANJOU

Domaine de Pignerolle

Route de Beaufort en vallée 49124 SAINT-BARTHÉLÉMY-D’ANJOU

Parc des Ardoisières 47

(Parc de la Paperie, sites de l’Aubinière et de la Brémandière) 4 entrances :

Jardins du Château de Brissac

SAINT-BARTHÉLEMY-D’ANJOU : rue de la Paperie et rue du 8 mai TRELAZÉ : rond Point Saint-Lézin et port de la Chevallerie

J+33 (0)2 41 91 22 21 - www.chateau-brissac.fr

Arboretum de Charuau

49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ

Jardins du château de Jarzé

Lieu-dit Château de Jarzé - 49140 JARZÉ J+33 (0)2 41 95 40 05 n+33 (0)6 81 80 54 49 (sur RDV)

Arboretum de La Ménitré 47

49610 JUIGNÉ-SUR-LOIRE/ST-JEANDES -MAUVRETS J+33 (0)2 41 91 90 09 - garennes@orange.fr

Parc André Delibes 47

Jardins de Montriou

Access to park whithout access to the castle : 5 €

Avenue Yolande d’Aragon 49000 ANGERS

Parc de Loisirs du Lac de Maine 46

Parc des Sablières

Levée de Belle Poule 49130 LES PONTS-DE-CÉ J+33 (0)2 41 79 20 62 n+33 (0)6 80 73 69 39 www.chateaudebellepoule.com

Jardin du Musée des Beaux-arts

Parc de Balzac

Malagué - 49140 CHAUMONT-D’ANJOU J+33 (0)9 71 00 10 00 - contact@lacdemalague.fr - www.lacdemalague.fr

Jardins du Château de Belle Poule

Boulevard de la Résistance et de la Déportation - 49100 ANGERS 35, boulevard du Roi René 49100 ANGERS

Chemin de la Guichardière 49125 BRIOLLAY

Base de loisirs de Malagué 47

Lieu-dit Brignac 49140 SEICHES-SUR-LE -LOIR J+33 (0)2 41 76 94 90 (sur RDV)

Jardin Botanique

Port Thibaut 49130 SAINTE-GEMMES-SUR-LOIRE

Jardin Botanique

16 boulevard Daviers 49100 ANGERS

Jardins du château de Brignac 47

46, rue du Roi René - 49250 LA MÉNITRÉ J+33 (0)2 41 45 63 95 - info@cnph.fr www.cnph.fr (uniquement sur réservation)

Jardins du château de la Tuffière

La Tuffière - 49140 LUÉ-EN-BAUGEOIS J+33 (0)2 41 45 10 12 n+33 (0)6 73 17 21 83 (sur RDV)

49610 SOULAINES-SUR-AUBANCE J+33 (0)2 41 45 30 21

Parc du petit Serrant

LA POINTE/BOUCHEMAINE

Terra Botanica et Parc de loisirs du Lac de Maine see also section below 'Theme Parks and Recreation' p. 65

This label acknowledges friendly practices in environment and the management of green spaces

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 63

VISITOR INFORMATION

GOLFS Swin-golf du Lac de Maine

Golf Blue Green

Golf d’Angers Moulin de Pistrait

Centre Aqualudique AquaVita

Piscine de plein air de Brissac-Quincé

Baignade en Loire

Open all year round.

From 01/07 to 31/08.

July/August (depending on river level)

Av. du Lac-de-Maine - 49000 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 22 32 10 - www.lacdemaine.fr

Château de la Perrière - 49240 AVRILLÉ J+33 (0)2 41 69 22 50 - www.bluegreen.com/avrille

49320 SAINT-JEAN-DES-MAUVRETS J+33 (0)2 41 91 96 56 - www.golfangers.com

SWIMMING SITES

1 Place AquaVita - 49000 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 39 63 63 - www.angers.fr/aquavita

Piscine de plein air de La Ménitré

49250 LA MÉNITRÉ J+33 (0)2 41 45 63 63 - www.lamenitre.com

Closed in 2015.

Piscine de plein air de la Baleine Bleue

Complexe la Venaiserie - 49124 SAINT-BARTHÉLEMY- D’ANJOU -J+33 (0)2 41 93 81 22 www.ville-saint-barthelemy-anjou.fr July/August.

Rue du Marin - 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 91 23 32 - www.loire-aubance.fr

49250 SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE J+33 (0)2 41 57 01 82 - www.st-mathurin.org

Baignade de l’île du Château

Avenue de la Boire salée - 49130 LES PONTS-DE-CÉ J+33 (0)2 41 79 32 58 - www.ville-lespontsdece.fr From 20/06 to 31/08.

Baignade de Villevêque

Centre aqualudique Couzeo

5, chemin de la Houssaye - 49070 BEAUCOUZÉ J+33 (0)2 41 19 10 36 - www.ville-beaucouze.fr

Parc des Sablières et Lac de Malagué

49140 VILLEVÊQUE J+33 (0)2 41 69 51 15 www.villeveque.fr

See parks and gardens, nature reserves p. 63

Open all year round - Lifeguards in summer

WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES RIVER CRUISES & HIRE OF HOUSE BOATS (P. 31) >

Atoue Loire

32, rue des Carmes - 49100 ANGERS J+33 (0)6 85 40 26 23 ROWING & CANOEING (P. 31) >

L’Hirondelle/Maine Anjou Rivières

Loire de Lumière

Le Moulin 49220 - CHENILLÉ-CHANGÉ J+33 (0)2 41 95 14 23 www.bateau-hirondelle.com

Place du Port Charles Sigogne 49250 SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE J+33 (0)2 41 57 01 82 www.maisondeloire-anjou.fr

Les Canalous

Anjou Navigation

J+33 (0)3 85 53 76 74 www.fluvial.fr

1, quai Hirondelle - 49220 GREZ-NEUVILLE J+33 (0)2 43 95 14 42 - www.anjou-navigation.com

École et Club de Canoë-Kayak d’Angers (CKCA) J02 41 72 07 04 - www.ckca.fr École et Club de voile/planche à voile (NDC VOILE)

75, avenue du Lac de Maine - 49000 ANGERS -J+33 (0)2 41 73 83 00 - www.ndcvoileangers.com

Angers Nautique Aviron

Club Nautique Rue des Frères Gasnier

Club Nautique

Base nautique Port Saint-Maur

Club de Canoë-Kayak

Club de Canoë-Kayak de l’AAEEC

11, rue Larrey - 49100 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 48 23 61 www.angersnautique.org 49250 LA MÉNITRÉJ02 41 45 69 01 n+33 (0)6 17 08 91 75 - lana.catherine@orange.fr

49080 BOUCHEMAINE J+33 (0)2 41 77 22 36 www.cnbouchemaine.fr 2, rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste 49460 MONTREUIL-JUIGNÉ J+33 (0)2 41 42 92 44 - www.cckmj.org

¿ FISHING 49

Centre de découverte du milieu aquatique et de la pêche Montayer - 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ J+33 (0)2 41 91 24 25 - www.fedepeche49.fr

Atelier Pêche Nature des Amis de la Loire

M. Michel Thomas/49250 SAINT-MATHURIN-SUR-LOIRE J33 (0)2 41 57 05 34 - www.fedepeche49.fr

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS REGION

8, rue de l’île Saint Aubin - 49000 ÉCOUFLANT J+33 (0)2 41 34 56 38 www.kayakecouflant.com 30, rue Maximin Gélineau - 49130 LES PONTS-DE-CÉ J+33 (0)2 41 44 65 15 - www.canoe-kayak-lespontsdece.fr

Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days Adu./ Enf. Other Info Open all year. Groups by reservation.

Du 06/07 to 11/07

(5 € per half-day, 9 € a day)

9-12 noon

Gratuit

Sur réservation (18 places)

* Prices quoted are subject to change in 2015

Parc Terra Botanica 44

Route d'Épinard B.P. 80 609 - 49106 ANGERS J+33 (0)2 41 25 00 00 www.terrabotanica.fr

Parc de Loisirs du Lac de Maine

49 avenue du Lac de Maine 49000 ANGERSJ+33 (0)2 41 22 32 20

Ouistiti Compagnie 48

ZAC de l'Hoirie - Rue Aliénor d'Aquitaine 49070 BEAUCOUZÉ J+33 (0)2 41 37 86 94 www.ouistiti-cie.com

Badaboum Circus 48

1 boulevard Gaston Birgé 49100 ANGERSJ+33 (0)2 41 95 28 54 www.badaboum-circus.fr

Parc de Loisirs de l'Étang 48

Route de Saint-Mathurin 49320 BRISSAC-QUINCÉ

J+33 (0)2 41 54 80 65 - www.parc-etang.com

Parc Anjou Aventure 48

Parc de Loisirs des Sablières 49000 ÉCOUFLANTJ+33 (0)2 41 96 89 68 www.parcanjouaventure.fr

Skoubi parc

34, Boulevard Gaston Birgé 49100 ANGERSJ+33 (0)9 53 55 67 23

¿ EDUCATIONAL FARMS Ferme pédagogique La Clé des Champs

Les Grandes Boudinières 49800 ANDARDJ+33 (0)6 08 67 72 95 www.ferme-andard.com

Ferme de La Casserie

49460 ÉCUILLÉn+33 (0)6 99 04 65 13 www.fermedelacasserie.com

Ferme expérimentale des Trinottières Lieu-dit Les Trinottières 49140 MONTREUIL-SUR-LOIR J+33 (0)2 41 76 60 22

Opening Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days hours Adult/ child Other Info 11/04 to 30/06 01/07 to 31/08 03/09 to 27/09

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-6pm (7pm Sun. & bank holidays)

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

10am-7pm 10am-6pm (7pm Sun. & bank holidays)

Find out more about all leisure activities www.lacdemaine.fr

No entry fee All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/07 to 31/08

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

French school hols & bank hols

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

French school hols.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

Apr., May, June, Sept.

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/07 to 31/08*

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

01/04 to 30/06* 01/09 to 30/10

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

French school hols.

10am-7pm Fri. 16h-7pm

10am-7pm

8,20 € (1 to 3 years) 9,80 € (4 to 12 years) Free for adults, children under 1 year and accompanying persons

Groups by appointment on Mon., Tue., Thu. & Fri. outside french school holidays. Closed 25/12 to 1/01.

wed. 8,50 € (2 to 12 years) 10-12:30pm/2-7pm 5 € (1 to 2 years) wkend : 10am-7pm Free for children under 1 year and accom10am-7pm panying adults from 8,20 € to 8,90 €

see website

1/07 to 31/08

19,50 € Reduced 16 € 13,50 € (4 to 17 years) Free for under 4yrs

10:30am-7pm

Reduced : from 7,50 € to 8,20 €

In June open Tue., Thu. & Fri. from 10:30am to 5pm. Wed., Sat. & Sun from 10:30am to 7pm

Booking advised.

+ bank holidays

1:30 - 6pm

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

7 € (3 to 2 years) 2 € (1 to 2 years) Free for accompanying adults

Open on bank holidays except from 25/12 to 01/01

Opening Opening Opening Tarifs Comments Labels dates days hours Adult/ child Other Info

All year round

Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su.

4-6pm

2,50 €

4:30-7pm or by appointment

4,50 €

Free visit for individual. Closed in December. Groups by appointment.

Visits by appointment for groups only (min. 10 people)

7 €/pers. to 3,50 € (12 à 18 ans) Free for under 12s

Closed on 25/12 & 1/01

All year round

By appointment

Du 07/02 to 30/11

4 € Free for under 2s

By appointment

All year round by appointment

4 €

By appointment

De l’Âne aux traits… La Goupillerie 49610 SOULAINE-SUR-AUBANCE

J+33 (0)2 41 66 49 68 n+33 (0)6 07 79 76 20

www.delaneauxtraits.com

Gog’Âne Boissay

49250 ST-RÉMY-LA-VARENNE

J+33 (0)2 41 45 21 25/n+33 (0)6 82 15 02 26

www.gog-ane.fr

La Ferme d’Elizéa

Les Grands Bauchais 49320 LES ALLEUDS n+33 (0)6 98 30 91 51

the

MAG, ANGERS & ITS RÉGION 65

*Every day of the holidays zone A

THEME AND ¿ LEISURE PARKS

TRAVELLING TO ANGERS USEFUL ADDRESS IN ANGERS ó BY AIR •A NGERS LOIRE AIRPORT 15 min from Angers by airport taxi www.angersloireaeroport.fr • LONDON • NICE • TOULOUSE • DOLE • NANTES ATLANTIQUE AIRPORT 40 min by TGV + airport shuttle

> TAXIS 0 • Allo Angers Taxi +33 (0)2 41 87 65 0 2 • Accueil Taxi Angevin +33 (0)2 41 34 96 5

• PARIS-CHARLES DE GAULLE AIROPORT 2 h 30 by direct TGV www.aeroportsdeparis.fr

UBLIC TRANSPORT >P • Irigo (tram/bus) +33 (0)2 41 33 64 64 0 49) • Anjou Bus (Gare routière +33 (0)8 20 16 0 the • IRIGO Handicap (Transports for disabled) +33 (0)2 41 27 29 29

Ò BY TRAIN

AR PARKING >C 0 • Sara stationnement +33 (0)2 41 24 13 4

www.nantes-aeroport.fr

(Use your smartphone to check on parking spots.)

GARE TGV D'ANGERS less than 10 min walk and 5 min tram ride away from city centre •A tlantique Coast 60 min (Nantes 40 min) • Paris 90 min • Lille 3 h 30 • L yon 3 h 45 • B russels (Thalys/TGV) 4 h 10 • L ondon (Eurostar) in under half a day

k BY CAR Motorways A11, A85, A87 : Nantes - Angers : 45 min • Rennes - Angers : 1 h 45 • Paris - Angers : 2 h 30 • Bordeaux - Angers : 3 h 40 * For more information about all your transport needs within Angers Loire Valley. Go to www.angersloiretourisme.com

JOURNEY TIME*

Angers

Brissac-Quincé

St-Mathurinsur-Loire

Seiches-surle-Loir

15 min

25 min

20 min

Brissac-Quincé

20 min 15 min

30 min

St-Mathurin-sur-Loire

25 min

15 min 30 min

Seiches-sur-le-Loir

20 min

30 min

Brochure financed by the Agglomeration of Angers Loire Métropole, the Community of Municipalities Loire-Aubance, Commune of Loire-Authion Valley, and the Loir Community of communes.

available

AR HIRE >C list) esplanade de la gare (non-exhaustive • Sixt +33 (0)2 85 08 00 41 • Avis +33 (0)8 20 05 05 05 • Europcar +33 (0)2 41 87 87 10 • Hertz +33 (0)2 41 88 15 16 • National Citer +33 (0)2 41 86 89 89 THE ANGERS LOIRE METROPOLE TOURIST OFFICE IS CERTIFIED TOURIST INFORMATION SEAL OF QUALITY ny, known Angers Loire Tourisme is a citizen compa responsible for its quality services, and for being . and committed to quality 7 days per week, Commitment 1 - Multilingual services available year round. region. the on ion informat te Up-to-da Commitment 2 activities for individuals, Commitment 3 - Providing trips, visits, and groups, and business people. ic growth through econom region's the g Commitment 4 - Assistin g regional visibility. tourism and business relationships, and increasin listening to through ment Commitment 5 - Continuous improve bility, and accessibility customer feedback, environmental responsi for all.

GROUPS & MINI-GROUPS

( +20 PERS.)

( 10-20 PERS. )

UPES I-GRO T MIN PES E GROU ES — VISIT RS ET SÉJOU

Association, tourism industry group, friend, council employees - no matter who you are, if you feel like a day out or a longer stay tailored to meet your needs, then contact us for a free quotation.

Get our brochure 'Groups 2015' - it's a great guide for hikers and cyclists, wine lovers and gourmet seekers. Everything you need to have a great time.

J+33 (0)2 41 23 50 20 Çservice.groupes@angersloiretourisme.com www.angersloiretourisme.com and then click: 'my stay/as a group'

• Brochure available at the tourist office or download it at: www.angersloiretourisme.com

ANGE

S GROUPE -PARTA GEONS

ENCES NOS EXPÉRI

2015

Monday - Friday: 9am-1pm and 2-6pm. M - 02 41

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La Maison d’Adam The Craftsmen’s House

EXTENSIVE CHOICE OF ART CREATIONS FROM 80 CRAFTSMEN : Sculptures - Blown glass - Jewelry from 15 designers - Collectables - Local handicrafts - Tapestry hangings - Tapestry pillows and bags - Medieval statues - Murano glasswork - Silk scarves...

Don’t miss the outside, don’t miss th e inside ! All year round 9.30am to 7pm Sunday closed and monday morning place Ste Croix - ANGERS 00 (33) 2 41 88 06 27