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Fontevraud-l'Abbaye

This trail starts from Fontevraud-l’Abbaye. It then winds its way through the Saumur countryside of forests, mushroom farms, 'moulins caviers' on their conical towers, and vineyards. Before Saumur and its Château, the route passes through one France's most interesting and picturesque regions, with its unique troglodyte dwellings.
Distance: 20 km
Additional technical information: tarmac surface

STAGE 1: Starting from Fontevraud-l'Abbaye

Founded early in the 12th century, Fontevraud Abbey is the largest group of monastic buildings in Europe. Its foundation in 1101 soon led to the establishment of a village, which has its own rich heritage.

Where to sleep:
- La Croix Blanche
Where to eat: Find
Places to see or visit:
- Fontevraud Royal Abbey

Bicycle hire or repair:
in Saumur: Amster Cycles, Ile d'Offard, 25 rue paul Bert - Tel: 02 41 53 01 01 -
A Saint-Lambert-des-Levées: Cycles Cesbron, Centre Commercial Intermarché – Tel: 02 41 67 69 32 -

Montsoreau

Stage 2: Montsoreau

It's worth lingering in this village, rated "The most beautiful village in France" to get the full flavour of its narrow, picturesque streets. From the top of its hill, the Loire and the Château de Montsoreau can be encompassed in a single view.

Where to sleep:
     - Camping de l'Isle Verte
     - Hôtel Le Bussy
Where to eat: Find
Places to see or visit:
     - Château de Montsoreau
     - Mushroom farm at Le Saut aux Loups
     - La toue nomade

Saumur

STAGE 3: Arrival in Saumur

Renowned for centuries for its prestigious Protestant academy, Saumur is nowadays known as the capital of the Horse. Its cavalry school and its famous Cadre Noir have earned it a reputation well beyond the borders of Anjou. A sophisticated town, its historic centre has been perfectly preserved, with some elegant private mansions.

Where to sleep:
     - Camping de l’Ile d’Offard
     - Loire Hôtel
     - Kyriad Hôtel
     - Hôtel Anne d’Anjou
     - Hôtel de Londres
     - Château de Verrières
Where to eat: Find
Places to see or visit: Find

Bicycle hire or repair:
In Saint-Lambert-des-Levées: Cycles Cesbron, Centre Commercial Intermarché – Tel: 02 41 67 69 32 -

Order the guidebook
"La Loire de Montsoreau à l'océan", Edition Siloë