Ideas for getaways less than an hour from the Pays Loudunais

Name: Less than an hour away
Address: FR

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For several years now, the Pays Loudunais has been our favourite destination when we need a break. Every time we visit, we take the opportunity to drop in less than an hour away. With Julien and our two curious friends, Emma and Noé, we get in the car and head for the treasures that surround this area that we love so much. And every time, it’s a delightful surprise. In fact, we rarely expect to experience so many highlights in a single day.

Travel back in time at Fontevrand Abbey

The first time we ventured less than an hour from the Pays Loudunais was to visitFontevraud Abbey, one of the largest monastic cities in Europe. As soon as I entered, Emma grabbed my hand to lead me under the immense vaults, as if she were walking through a film set. Noah, for his part, spent his time imagining the knights who must have trodden these flagstones centuries before. The sculptures, the immense halls, the royal tombs… each room offered us a suspended moment. We almost whispered as we walked along, awed by the beauty of the place.

Be amazed by Saumur's prestigious treasures

A few kilometres further on, the atmosphere changes completely when you arrive in Saumur. This town on the banks of the Loire exudes a gentle atmosphere. Julien, who never misses an opportunity to taste a local wine, let himself be tempted by a tasting while the children and I made our way to the Cadre Noir stables.

Watching the riders train fascinated Emma. The surroundings and the horses are so majestic! She could already see herself in boots and a bodice, proudly mounted on her steed. In the late afternoon, we rode along the banks of the Loire, bathed in golden light. It was a real moment of calm that did us a world of good.

Discover Chinon's captivating past

On an autumn day, we headed for Chinon. We’d heard all about the château, so we headed straight for the monument. The building dominates the town and offers a breathtaking view. Noé, who has a passion for history, bombarded us with questions about Joan of Arc and the kings of France. We loved letting him lead us up the stairs, convinced we’d discovered a secret passage.

Then, on the way back down to the town centre, we were charmed by the cobbled streets. Emma stopped every three metres to admire a piece of jewellery, a notebook or a wooden toy. All in all, Chinon appealed to the whole family, each in their own way.

Take a stroll less than an hour from the Pays Loudunais

And the town of Thouars is perfect for this. When we arrived, we were surprised by its understated elegance . Here, everything seems to tell the story of an era: the medieval facades, the half-timbered houses, the old stones. Faced with so many discoveries, we decided to slow down and walk around at random, guided by the children. While we marvelled at the serene atmosphere, they had fun spotting every detail and imagining what it meant.

A little later in the afternoon, a hot chocolate break in a café in the centre convinced us that this discreet little town hides its secrets. To understand and conquer it, all you have to do is let it take control. It uses its architecture and its history to seduce you.

The surprising Richelieu

For a day out that’s 100% history, we can’t recommend Richelieu enough. It’s a town that intrigues you just by its name. “Is there a link with the cardinal of the same name? Why name a town after someone? All the answers to your questions can be found on site. Here, everything has been designed to be perfect: streets lined up, harmonious architecture, open squares. Noé loved imagining the life of the cardinal and the construction of an “ideal city”. Emma loved the large park where we improvised a picnic at the end of the morning. It was a pleasant, calm and surprising place, almost out of time.

Stops in the surrounding countryside

There have also been times when we’ve wanted to do more than just discover a city. So we opted for more confidential destinations. For example, we took a trip to Mirebeau, a peaceful village where time seems to slow down. It’s perfect for recharging your batteries! Afterwards, we took a diversion to Montreuil-Bellay and its impressive fortified castle. The ramparts, the moat, the towers… it’s all there to make the children’s eyes sparkle. We ended the visit with a big collective “wow”, like a final bouquet.

Take a breather on the banks of the Loire

Another destination for a breath of fresh air is the banks of the Loire. The river is wide, majestic and mesmerising. We sat down for a few minutes to listen to the water, watch the birds and feel the fresh breeze. It’s the perfect way to take full advantage of all the region’s treasures.

The more you discover about the Pays Loudunais, the more you marvel at its incredible diversity. In less than an hour, you can travel through centuries of history, sample the local flavours, admire the varied landscapes and share some great family moments.

You’re guaranteed a day full of emotions, and the clear impression that this region still has a lot to reveal.

Ideas for getaways less than an hour from the Pays Loudunais

Travel back in time at Fontevrand Abbey

Be amazed by Saumur's prestigious treasures

Discover Chinon's captivating past

Take a stroll less than an hour from the Pays Loudunais

The surprising Richelieu

Stops in the surrounding countryside

Take a breather on the banks of the Loire

Here are some other inspirations

Château de Monts sur Guesnes

Domaine de Roiffé

In a pushchair

PMR

Events

PL’Souverain Heritage

Center parcs

EVJF/EVG

Free entertainment

Eco-responsible stay