For most of us, when we think of the Loire Valley it's the grand chateaux and grand wines that pop into our minds – but there’s another aspect to this stunning part of France that’s no less impressive. Though the Loire Valley is UNESCO listed for its cultural landscape, historic towns and great architectural monuments, there is a rather sleepier side to the Maine et Loire department. It’s a place of hidden gems, amazing gastronomy, a village of roses, less well-known chateaux that look like something out of a fairy tale and towns that are pickled in the past.
So when you head for the greats – look out for the great but off the beaten track places and double the pleasure of your visit…
Saumur
Saumur is a tranquil sort of town with a friendly ambience. It’s a great place for those who love culture, history, beautiful architecture, wine and great French cuisine. And, let’s face it, it doesn’t get much more tempting than that does it?!
5000 years ago there were settlers here and just 2km from Saumur you'll find the biggest funeral chamber in Europe, left behind by those early inhabitants. A huge dolmen which bizarrely is located in the garden of a pub that's privately owned and currently for sale. If you’re interested in owning a property which dates back to
probably about the time the most ancient of Egyptian pyramids were being built –
have a look at the Dolman de Bagneux!
The Plantagenets bought good times to the town, building a bridge over the River Loire which helped it prosper. Then Saumur mostly seemed to go to sleep and not much happened until the religious wars began in France. Protestants from around the world found refuge and safety in Saumur. They bought with them new ideas, set up a university and changed the face and pace of this tranquil place.
Credit Derrick J Matthews