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IN BRIEF
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On the road from Nantes to Paris, you cannot miss Maine-et-Loire: on one side its iconic castles (from Brissac-Quincé to Plessis-Bourré), on the other the walks and cruises along the water around Angers, between Loire, Maine, Mayenne, and Sarthe. Two attractions that elegantly mix history and nature. Essential information to jot down in your notebook: the Angers castle houses the Tapestry of the Apocalypse, the oldest and largest collection of medieval tapestries in the world.
From the Angers Corniche to the ramparts of Angers, Maine-et-Loire unfolds a setting where the Loire, the castles, and the secret villages echo each other. Here are two unmissable attractions – castles worthy of a novel and “water-side” getaways – as well as a vital piece of information to slip into any cultural suitcase: the fabulous Tapestry of the Apocalypse, a unique medieval treasure in the world.
On the road between Nantes and Paris, stop in Anjou and let yourself be guided by the Angers Corniche, this scenic little road that runs along the Loire before heading towards Angers. Between gentle nature, noble stones, and river delicacies, one effortlessly transitions from contemplative strolls to historical wonder, all enriched by charming villages like Baugé, Béhuard (situated on its island), or the astonishing troglodyte village of Rochemenier. And if you’re tempted to explore other gems, take a look at the inspiring ideas around the Favorite Village of the French 2025.
Castles of Anjou: from Renaissance emotions to medieval mysteries
When one mentions the Loire Valley, one thinks of a procession of castles. In Maine-et-Loire, the visit transforms into a genuine theatrical play where the scenery changes with each curtain rise. In Brissac-Quincé, the “giant” blends medieval accents with Renaissance boldness. The castle of Serrant boasts a romantic English-style park. The Plessis-Bourré reflects in its moats like a star that knows its angles. And on the banks of the Loire, the castle of Montsoreau invokes literature: fans of Alexandre Dumas will remember “The Lady of Montsoreau”.
Extend the stroll through noble streets: in Baugé, the private mansions play elegant behind-the-scenes roles; in Béhuard, the church and houses seem to float on the island; and underground, Rochemenier reveals its troglodyte world. In the mood for a fortified postcard detour? Head towards Montreuil-Bellay, a city with a medieval charm whose ramparts guard the spirit of the Anjou marches.
And for those who feel a thrill from old stones, some Loire residences feed stories of nocturnal hauntings and other apparitions — perfect to spice up the visit with these mysteries and haunted legends told with delight.
Angers along the water: peaceful cruises, bike paths, and secret spots
Angers is not just a city: it is an archipelago of rivers. To the south, the Loire majestically winds; at the heart of the city, the Maine winds its way; all around, the Mayenne and Sarthe open up bluish horizons. Embark on thematic cruises, floating picnics, or sunsets at the bow — a great starting point to discover Angers from the riverside and unfurl the sails without stress.
Prefer freewheeling over rocking? The towpaths are your red carpets. By bike or on foot, you glide along the banks, surprise a heron, take a break at the small harbor of Pruillé on the Mayenne, breathe in the park of Sablières and cross the Basses Vallées angevines, known for their stud farms and ever-changing light. Along the way, the ballet of waters orchestrates at the lock of Montreuil-Belfroy, impressive and always in operation.
In these humid landscapes, flood meadows and waters support a generous biodiversity. To delve into this nature chapter, unfold the map of these vegetal treasures that embody the gentleness of Anjou — one quickly understands why poets and painters have set down their bags here.
Essential information: the Tapestry of the Apocalypse, a world masterpiece at the castle of Angers
Within the powerful castle of Angers, behind the slate and tuff walls, lies an unparalleled treasure: the Tapestry of the Apocalypse. Dated to the 14th century, it constitutes the oldest and largest collection of medieval tapestries in the world, showcasing approximately 850 m² of scenes over nearly 140 meters. It is the visual representation of the Apocalypse according to Saint John: titanic battles, symbols, the triumph of good over evil… a biblical soap opera on a grand scale, where each panel reads like a gripping episode.
This centerpiece encapsulates the spirit of Anjou: a taste for the arts, a sense of staging, and that soft light that makes the colors sing. Before or after your visit, explore the old town, its green squares, and its museums; and to prepare your steps in Anjou, note the useful address: www.anjou-tourisme.com.
