Saumur is home to one of the most important military schools in France – it’s huge and takes up 20% of the entire town’s footprint. There’s also an important equestrian school which puts on a famous annual event.
A beautiful chapel in the town (now a school) was once a pilgrimage site of major importance and spawned a rosary making industry in Saumur, in fact they still make them here.
Where to eat in Saumur:
Locals love: Bistrot de la Place, there’s a good choice of dishes and if you go for a beer or glass of wine they serve great nibbles! It's very traditional, on a sunny day the tables spill out onto the pedestrianized Place St Pierre.
Opposite is Les Tontons (which means “the uncles”) with a welcoming landlord who's regarded as a local "character". There's a fun and friendly atmosphere and traditional cuisine. This place is a favourite with the locals.
Insider secret: On a little island in the River Loire is the Pub House. Run by two young guys this is the place to go if you fancy a long, cool beer. They play good music and have a great choice of beer on tap. This modern bar is loved by locals not just for the brew but the great saucisson and cheeses they offer..
Local specialities include mushrooms and fouées a sort of bread: eat it like the locals filled with cheese, "snail butter", Nutella or jam - Loire valley style street food.