Angers and its region

Photo: C. Martin, Destination Angers

Whether you're a couple, a family or a group of friends, cycling around Angers and the surrounding area is a must on your to-do list. From La Loire à Vélo to the Vélo Francette, not forgetting the Loir Valley by bike, all you have to do is get on your bike and enjoy the countryside as far as the eye can see.

Sports enthusiasts looking for adventure, freedom and wide open spaces: travel in bikepacking mode! All you need is a bike or a Gravel, some light luggage and you'll be ready to discover everything the Anjou region has to offer!

Photo: 2BROS Creative, Destination Angers

From 14 to 16 June 2024 / Lac de Maine, Angers

Nature is Bikethe festival of gravel and adventure cycling, from ultra to discovery, returns for a 4th edition from 14 to 16 June 2024 on the banks of Lac de Maine in Angers.The first of its kind in France, this event invites you to enjoy a weekend of cycling for all, in the spirit of gravel and adventure cycling: passion, exploration, sharing, reconnecting with nature and a good dose of conviviality.

On the programme: ultra-distance, bikepacking, gravel and mountain bike discovery, a free-access village with forums, workshops and evening events, and the gravel and adventure cycling trade fair bringing together the biggest names in bike equipment, bike manufacturing and outdoor leisure.

Photo: D. Mouraud, Destination Angers

Angers and the surrounding region invite you to explore its rich heritage, from châteaux and museums to historic towns and formal gardens.

Fortress of King René Château d'Angers is a must-see. Overlooking the Maine river, it is made up of an imposing wall and also houses the Tapestry of the Apocalypseinscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World register in May 2023! The narrow streets of Angers also take you back to the heart of the Middle Ages, with timber-framed houses such as Adam's, and the discovery of the Abbatiale Toussaint, home to the David d'Angers Gallery.

You can also take time to stroll around Angers and admire the Gothic style of Angers, also known as "Plantagenet", by visiting the Saint-Maurice CathedralCathedral, visiting the Jean Lurçat Museum of Contemporary Tapestry or discovering the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church.

A land of royalty, the Anjou region is packed with châteaux and manor houses that tell the story of several generations. Of particular note is the Château de Brissacthe highest in France and Europe, nicknamed the "Giant of the Loire Valley", the château du Plessis-Macéa fine example of the Gothic style in Anjou, the château du Plessis-Bourré which has been used as a film set, and the château de Serrant with its impressive collection of furniture and objets d'art.

Photo: Christophe Martin, Destination Angers

At the crossroads of several Loire wine routes, the region invites you to discover the Anjou-Saumur vineyards. Growing on schist and tufa soils, the Cheninand Cabernet France are two of the region's key Loire Valley grape varieties.

From red to white to rosé, treat your taste buds in moderation to one of the 27 Anjou Saumur Vin Royal appellations in the Loire! Each aroma reveals its own unique history and terroir.

During a hike or cycle outing, take the time to meet passionate winegrowers and visit their estates. They'll give you a warm welcome in their cellars to share their passion for their trade. Finish off with a tasting of some of the finest vintages for which the Loire Valley vineyards are famous.

Photo: Romain Bassenne, Destination Angers

The Loire, the Mayenne, the Authion, the Sarthe, the Loir... Numerous rivers criss-cross the region, creating magnificent landscapes. These have played an important role in the history of the area (towns, châteaux, vineyards, etc.). The beauty of the landscape of the Basses Vallées Angevines can be admired in every season.

Water is the common thread running through your discovery. You'll have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with this element as you stroll along theIle Saint-Aubintaking the Loire by bike or the Vélo Francetteor taking a trip on a gabare...

Take advantage of pleasant moments at the water's edge to swim, picnic along the Maine or spend the evening in a guinguette savouring the delicious specialities of Anjou!

Angers has a rich natural heritage and is a key destination for visitors. It is also home to Europe's leading botanical park, Terra Botanicawhere you can immerse yourself in an incredible world of plants.