Parcay Les Pins – Surrounding Towns
Saumur
Saumur — “The Pearl of Anjou” is a startling white town built in the chalk tuffeau stone, characteristic of the Loire Valley and its chateaux. The magnificent chateau at Saumur is perched high on a rocky promontory overlooking the Old Town and the River Loire. The chateau houses the Decorative Arts Museum and the Horse Museum. There are fine views along the Loire from here, whereas in the Old Town you will find interesting buildings, a lively atmosphere and good bars and restaurants.
This is also the Kingdom of the Horse. Saumur stages famous equestrian events, military tattoos and riding galas each year. As well as the Horse Museum, there is a Cavalry Museum, the National Riding Academy and the home of the prestigious Cadre Noir cavalry.
Le Mans
Le Mans is less than an hour away. Le Vieux Mans has a network of medieval cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. The film Cyrano de Bergerac with Gerard Depardieu was filmed in the shadow of its cathedral. For motor enthusiasts the Musée Automobile, part of the 24-Hour Race Circuit complex, is a must.
Angers
A pleasant drive along the Loire valley to Angers. There you will find an impressive castle, some fine examples of “Plantagenet Gothic” architecture, ancient cobbled streets and pleasant pedestrianised areas. Visit the Chateaux de Pignerolles en route, dedicated to communications from old radio and TV to the very latest Internet technology or call at the impressive Cointreau Distillery. Angers is also an excellent shopping centre.
Chinon
Chinon is a town steeped in history. The town developed in the Middle Ages and was included in the French royal estates in 1205. In 1429, Joan of Arc came here to acknowledge Charles VII. The historic centre is a conservation area with some fine buildings. Chinon was the home of the writer François Rabelais, who sung the praise of its wines.
Combine a visit to the market with lunch in the Square under the shade of the trees, or include as part of your wine tour.
Bourgueil and St Nicholas de Bourgueil
Bourgueil and St Nicholas de Bourgueil sit happily in the heart of the vineyards amongst the countryside of a World Heritage site. The market each Tuesday bustles with life and delicacies – well worth a visit. It is a regular meeting place for many local people, either sitting in the bar by the old market hall or sampling the delicious Gallette Bourgueilloise – a specialty gateau of the town.
Places to visit are: the ancient Bénédictine Abbey which dates from the 10th century, Moulin Scée – a magnificent water mill which has recently been restored to working order and the Cave Touristique to discover the history of wine-making in the two appellations. There are numerous viticulteurs to visit too.
Tours
Tours is the original home of the French language and the art of living. It is rich in history, yet a thriving modern city. The old quarters are a delight – timbered buildings, animated streets with cafes and bars. La Place Plumereau, know as “Plum” to the locals is the place to eat and drink and soak up the atmosphere of old Tours.