Towns & villages with intact charm

Going down the Loire, from Montsoreau to Thoureil

Around its imposing castle, Montsoreau is one of “the most beautiful villages in France”. It is a real fairy tale setting with its flowery alleys that go up towards the hillside planted with vines and its breathtaking view of the Loire.

Down on the shore, Turquant, Parnay et Dampierre combine all the ingredients of Loire charm: hillside troglodytes, vineyards and craftsmen promise pleasant walks.

À Saumur, the castle of Sleeping Beauty and the bustling city center will certainly hold you for several hours…

To the south of Saumur, you will pass through magnificent little villages, Chênehutte-Trèves-Cunault, religious buildings and other remarkable mansions, before reaching the town of Gennes and its splendid bridge. Run to the Thoureil, a small town of sailors nestled between the Loire and the wooded hillside. Sit on the holds and enjoy…

A few medieval towns, transformed into charming villages!

Stroll at random and let yourself be surprised by our many medieval cities. To the south of Saumur, a little away from the main roads, the village of Coudray-Macouard Looks straight out of a swashbuckling movie. Perched on its limestone mound, the fortified city is home to sumptuous 15th, 16th and 17th century residences along a maze of alleys.

Also perched, 106 m high, Le Puy-Notre-Dame has kept its ramparts, its collegiate church and developed its surrounding vineyards, today guaranteed by an AOC.

And what would a knight be without a castle? To put on the armour, stroll through the fortified streets of Montreuil-Bellay before visiting the castle overlooking the Thouet.