Discover Montreuil-bellay, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire

12.5 km hike from the church square in St Martin de Sanzay, village located 12km north of Thouars and the border of Maine and Loire. Walk that will allow you to discover heritage sites and appreciate the agrarian landscape, fruit of the long work of man on his environment. Download card http://randoendeuxsevres.fr/index.php?id_product=1705&controller=product and on sale at the Tourist Office of Pays Thouarsais

This path will allow you to appreciate the remarkable troglodytic heritage of the picturesque villages where the troglos were dug in the local blacnhe stone, the tuffeau. It will lead you to the heart of the vineyards, where famous grape varieties such as Cabernet Franc or Pinot Blanc de Loire are grown.

A short, signposted route through the Poitou vineyards at the gateway to Anjou. Within a small area, the historic and built heritage is incomparably rich: picturesque villages, troglodytic sites, mills, dolmens, wash-houses and dovecotes form an uninterrupted string of secret nuggets.

On the borders of Poitou and Anjou, Saix offers visitors its Poitevin hamlet, marked by the memory of Sainte-Radegonde. This path allows views on castles or wine estates, with beautiful panoramas on the North of Poitou where the vine and the tuffeau are married.

At the exit of the village of Saix, the path introduces you little by little in a forest environment. Come and live a pleasant moment in contact with these majestic trees. The views follow one another: dovecotes, vineyards or the chapel in memory of Sainte-Radegonde. Beautiful discoveries in perspective.

Follow the purple arrows and discover the vineyards and villages between the Thouet and Argenton rivers!

Discover the small villages Thouarsais between plain and hills and stop your eyes on the town of Tourtenay, unique village of Deux-Sèvres showing a troglodyte habitat!

This itinerary passes by the "Reine Blanche" bridge, named in homage to the passage of Queen Blanche of Castille in the 12th century. Cross the narrow streets dug in the tufa stone, the vineyards, discover the troglodyte dwellings, castles and chapels and finally come to admire the unique canal of the Dive in Poitou.

The Thouet Valley is discovered at the rate of cycling thanks to a marked route on small roads and farm tracks or bike paths. Affluent of the Loire, the Thouet is a discreet river which hides many treasures. Along its 150 km, it meanders through varied landscapes and authentic villages. This bike route is accompanied by loops that complete the discovery of Thouarsais, vineyards to the plains. More information on www.valleeduthouet.fr Le Thouet by bike is one of the sections of the Vélo Francette, a route linking Normandy to the Charente coast, via the Thouarsais. www.lavelofrancette.com So do not hesitate to ride your bike for unexpected and preserved discoveries! New: order online your picnic prepared by local restaurateurs with local products !!! All information on www.lebonpicnic.com

This circuit will make you see several dolmens, a "mound" where large slabs were collected by our ancestors of the Neolithic, a hike that alternates between fields and undergrowth that crosses pretty villages.

On the programme: a tour of the historic centre, with plenty of anecdotes and interesting facts. Halfway through the tour, you'll discover a typical Anjou game: boule de fort. TIME DETAILS : From 01/07 to 29/08/2025 Guided tour on Tuesdays from 3pm to 5pm.

A city tour specially designed for families. Children can fill in a short questionnaire and receive a "Grand Ambassador of the City" diploma. A snack is served at the end of the tour. TIME DETAILS : Thursday 17 July 2025 Guided tour from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. Thursday 7 August 2025 Guided tour from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.

The Gîte La Tour is located in the heart of the Petite Cité de Caractère (small town) of Montreuil-Bellay, just a stone's throw from the Château, the banks of the River Thouet, the Vélo Francette itinerary, the GR36, the vineyards... Nearby shops and numerous tourist attractions (Saumur 10 km, Fontevraud 16 km, Château de Brézé 8 km, Doué en Anjou 12 km, Center Parcs 13 km...). The flat sleeps up to 4 people. It has a living room with a lounge/dining area and a fully-equipped kitchen. Each bedroom (15 and 13 m²) has a 180x200 bed and an en suite bathroom. You can also make use of the communal outdoor areas, including the swimming pool. The 2000 m² property has several gîtes. Don't hesitate to ask Nathalie for more information about renting several gîtes or privatising the estate. Enjoy your stay in the Loire Valley!

Opening in August 2024, this is a lovely new cocooning address for your next stay in the Loire Valley, whatever the season. A beautifully restored and decorated stone house with a garden and lots of character, right in the heart of the town of Montreuil-Bellay. Everything has been thought of for a relaxing stay, all year round. An intimate atmosphere, just a stone's throw from the Château de Montreuil-Bellay (250 m), shops, entertainment and the River Thouet... Inside: on the ground floor, a pleasant living room (22 m²) with lounge, dining area and fitted kitchen; a comfortable glass roof between the house and the small garden. Upstairs, a large 18 m² bedroom with double bed, lounge with armchairs and bench seat. Small en suite shower room with wc. Please note: extra bedding in the bedroom in a BZ 140x190cm, bringing the total capacity to 4 people. Outside, you can enjoy the 100 m² garden with its trees and flowers, barbecue, garden furniture and sun loungers, as well as the Nordic bath. And, at the bottom of the garden, in a small outbuilding, discover the converted wine storehouse with tasting room and traditional sauna. A wood-burning stove to keep you warm in winter, a veranda to enjoy the surrounding countryside all year round, a garden, a Nordic bath with wood at 36°C all year round and an old wine storehouse for the pleasure of tasting the local wine... also with a traditional sauna (bathrobes provided)! You can even book (in advance of your arrival) solo or duo massage sessions... given by a professional masseuse. Beds are made on arrival. Relaxation, comfort and attention, as well as discovering the local gastronomic and heritage treasures: everything you need for an excellent stay in the heart of Montreuil-Bellay, a "Petite Cité de Caractère" listed as one of the "Plus Beaux Détours de France" (Most Beautiful Resorts in France), a green resort and a fishing resort. The owners also put 2 bicycles at your disposal. Enjoy your stay! Les Nids du Thouet also includes 2 other gîtes, "L'ancien presbytère" (sleeps 15) and "Le Dort'Thouars" (sleeps 5/6), all located between Montreuil-Bellay and Thouars along the Thouet river.

This year's patron is Catherine Salviat, actress and member of the Comédie Française. TIMETABLE DETAILS : From Thursday 28 to Sunday 31 August 2025. Opening evening on 28 August at 9pm at the château.

On the programme: a renaissance ball takes you back in time, a giant investigation game takes you into the fairytale world of Alice in Wonderland, you are introduced to fencing and archery like the greatest warriors, and you follow in the footsteps of a little donkey as he sings songs and tells tales. You can also marvel at the fireworks display designed for this anniversary year, compete in giant wooden games or dance to summer music. Finally, the millennium banquet brings this exceptional week of festivities to a close on Sunday 20 July with a participatory karaoke. For the occasion, participants are invited to dress in white to celebrate peace and light! There's something for all tastes and all ages! You can find the full programme on the Montreuil-Bellay website: www.ville-montreuil-bellay.fr TIME DETAILS : From 12/07 to 20/07/2025, every day.

This picnic area offers you, at the edge of a pond, many tables, sheltered or not, very spaced out from each other, play structures for children, a mini golf (2€50 per game), barbecue.

Fishing, tennis, village cottages (labellized Gites de France 2 ears), playground and picnic, mini golf, fitness trail, service area and parking for camper. Multisports ground. No swimming. 10 ha lake located on the bike route of the Thouet Valley. Fishing prohibited in December and closure of predator fishing in February and March. Close to hiking and biking trails

Located in the North of Thouarsais near the route of the VéloFrancette®, at the gates of Anjou, discover this botanical landscape park, replanted from 2017. You will find many varied plants of various origins as well as a collection of remarkable plants (hellebores, irises, peonies, roses, asters, hemerocallis, etc...). The owners select the plants and maintain the park according to the principles of organic agriculture without any synthetic chemicals. Throughout your visit, the local fauna will be presented to you, in particular the birds and bats (nesting boxes, food...). Also wine growers, the owners will make you discover the vineyards of the bourg Joly which are integrated into the park.

Listed as a Historic Monument, the church of Saint-Martin de Sanzay had eight centuries of construction between the twelfth and nineteenth century. This long construction has given it a Romanesque Touraine style.

This bridge was built in the thirteenth century to span the Thouet. His crossing was subjected to a "tithe" tax in kind (wheat, rye ...) paid by farmers. Partially destroyed by German troops in August 1944, it was rebuilt in 1966, when the construction of a stronger and wider bridge was made close to the old, to meet a passing vehicle more greater. Today, the arches of the old bridge are now visible through regular maintenance of land nearby. Characteristic of the territory, it is the largest medieval bridge kept Thouarsais. Included in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1943.

Anjou AOC wines - dry Saumur wine - Crémant de Loire. A collective of independent French winegrowers.

This picnic area offers three tables and six benches on the banks of the Losse. It also has a toilet.

The Château du Bois de Sanzay, built in the 15th century and rebuilt in the 18th century, has beautiful architectural features. In the French gardens stands a surprising dovecote. Located in St Martin de Sanzay, Thouarsaise commune in Deux-Sèvres, a few km from Thouars, city of art and history, and on the border of Maine and Loire and the Loire Castles. Visit in summer period.

AOC Anjou (Red, White, Rosé de Loire, Cabernet) and Saumur (gross Traditional method or semi-dry). Melons Haut Poitou (PGI). Home appointment outside the summer period.

A great address for receptions, theme evenings and business meals. Open every day.

Home cooking using fresh, seasonal and local produce!

Choose from a variety of recipes and order your pizzas to take away.

You can also make the most of the pretty garden in fine weather. The menu changes with the wind... Don't forget to book!

What emanates from the restaurant La Rencontre is love. The Chef's love of seasonal cuisine, plants and fresh produce, things done with taste.

A pleasant place to dine, with a breathtaking view of the Château de Montreuil-Bellay from either the dining room or the terrace. A gourmet break to plan when visiting the town, "one of the 100 most beautiful detours in France" and "Petite Cité de Caractère". You can also take advantage of the "salon de thé - glacier" service.

This fully restored 15th-century inn opens its doors to you for convivial moments with family and friends. Under a terrace shaded by lime trees, at the foot of the Montreuil-Bellay castle, discover a market-fresh cuisine based on the finest produce and flavours. The menus change regularly according to the season, making the most of the talents of local and organic producers, and the inspiration of chef Etienne Bresson. In the glasses, you'll find almost 700 organic and biodynamic wines from committed winemakers in France and elsewhere. Our wine list has been awarded Gault & Millau's "Plus belle carte découverte de Loire 2016" and "Meilleur Sommelier du Grand Ouest 2017". Our eco-responsible approach has been awarded the 3 Écotable label and recognised by the Collège Culinaire de France. Temporarily closed.

Discover the local speciality, fouée! It was at the time of Charles VII and Joan of Arc that the Lord of Montreuil-Bellay had the Tithe Barn built. Transformed into a restaurant in 1995, it now welcomes you to feast on the region's delicacies, including Fouée, a traditional speciality. This is a small hollow loaf, fresh from the still-smoking wood-fired oven, to be filled with various regional specialities (fine salted butter, rillettes d'Anjou, mogettes with duck confit, farmhouse goat's cheese, etc.). Closed Monday to Friday lunchtime in HS. Closed Mon, and lunchtimes Tue to Fri in S.

The Nobis guinguette at Camping Paradis les Nobis d'Anjou offers a trendy menu of gourmet snacks. Burgers, pizzas, salads, aperitif platters, and for those with a sweet tooth: crêpes, waffles, ice creams. Something for everyone. If you're not staying at the campsite, we're delighted to welcome holidaymakers, locals and tourists passing through. Situated in the lower part of Montreuil Bellay, by the river, come and relax for lunch or dinner. Open from 13/04 to 21/09. Closed on Tuesdays in HS.

The Gîte La Tour is located in the heart of the Petite Cité de Caractère (small town) of Montreuil-Bellay, just a stone's throw from the Château, the banks of the River Thouet, the Vélo Francette itinerary, the GR36, the vineyards... Nearby shops and numerous tourist attractions (Saumur 10 km, Fontevraud 16 km, Château de Brézé 8 km, Doué en Anjou 12 km, Center Parcs 13 km...). The flat sleeps up to 4 people. It has a living room with a lounge/dining area and a fully-equipped kitchen. Each bedroom (15 and 13 m²) has a 180x200 bed and an en suite bathroom. You can also make use of the communal outdoor areas, including the swimming pool. The 2000 m² property has several gîtes. Don't hesitate to ask Nathalie for more information about renting several gîtes or privatising the estate. Enjoy your stay in the Loire Valley!

Within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, Montreuil-Bellay is structured around a medieval space integrating around fifteen historic monuments including the castle, its ramparts and the Thouet river. Located in the center of Montreuil-Bellay, a small town full of character, Franck and Martine welcome you to present you a modern and spacious 110 m² gîte where the decoration invites you to recharge your batteries. You will find all the comforts for your stay with the proximity of shops and the most beautiful tourist sites in Anjou. Ideal for meeting with family or friends in a city rich in history. Franck and Martine invite you to settle in a comfortable duplex with a capacity of 4 to 8 people. Living room in a contemporary space, functional kitchen where you can cook good meals ... Room of 13 m² in a romantic and soft atmosphere, you will appreciate its 160 bedding. Room of 15 m² in a warm atmosphere, you you will appreciate its 160 bedding. Room of 17 m² in a cozy and soothing atmosphere, you will appreciate this room with 2 beds in 140, bathroom with private WC. When you arrive, the beds will be ready for you at no extra charge. The paintings exhibited in the cottage are the work of the owner of the premises and bring their charm and brightness to satisfy your stay. You have a crush, they are for sale ... You can take the opportunity to relax in the outdoor area with garden furniture. Martine and Frank will not hesitate to satisfy your well-being for an unforgettable stay!

Opening in August 2024, this is a lovely new cocooning address for your next stay in the Loire Valley, whatever the season. A beautifully restored and decorated stone house with a garden and lots of character, right in the heart of the town of Montreuil-Bellay. Everything has been thought of for a relaxing stay, all year round. An intimate atmosphere, just a stone's throw from the Château de Montreuil-Bellay (250 m), shops, entertainment and the River Thouet... Inside: on the ground floor, a pleasant living room (22 m²) with lounge, dining area and fitted kitchen; a comfortable glass roof between the house and the small garden. Upstairs, a large 18 m² bedroom with double bed, lounge with armchairs and bench seat. Small en suite shower room with wc. Please note: extra bedding in the bedroom in a BZ 140x190cm, bringing the total capacity to 4 people. Outside, you can enjoy the 100 m² garden with its trees and flowers, barbecue, garden furniture and sun loungers, as well as the Nordic bath. And, at the bottom of the garden, in a small outbuilding, discover the converted wine storehouse with tasting room and traditional sauna. A wood-burning stove to keep you warm in winter, a veranda to enjoy the surrounding countryside all year round, a garden, a Nordic bath with wood at 36°C all year round and an old wine storehouse for the pleasure of tasting the local wine... also with a traditional sauna (bathrobes provided)! You can even book (in advance of your arrival) solo or duo massage sessions... given by a professional masseuse. Beds are made on arrival. Relaxation, comfort and attention, as well as discovering the local gastronomic and heritage treasures: everything you need for an excellent stay in the heart of Montreuil-Bellay, a "Petite Cité de Caractère" listed as one of the "Plus Beaux Détours de France" (Most Beautiful Resorts in France), a green resort and a fishing resort. The owners also put 2 bicycles at your disposal. Enjoy your stay! Les Nids du Thouet also includes 2 other gîtes, "L'ancien presbytère" (sleeps 15) and "Le Dort'Thouars" (sleeps 5/6), all located between Montreuil-Bellay and Thouars along the Thouet river.