Loire Mushroom caves
Deep inside the cool dark Caves des Roches at Bourré something is growing... slowly, silently and surely.
These are several famous funghi farms of the Loire Valley and this is one of the best. Here they pick 1000kg of mushrooms a week, grown in 12km of galleries on seven levels. They thrive in a natural atmosphere which ensures the most taste; they’re delivered all over France and around the world. The special Pied Bleu mushrooms grow here – destined for the very best restaurants. Oyster, Shitake and Paris button mushrooms are quite a sight to see, growing from the damp blocks that imitate a woodland setting - the smell is incredible, earthy and mysterious.
There's another secret in these caves: a giant sculpture of a medieval village carved in the stone by former mushroom pickers during their breaks. It's closed to the public as the stone discolours if touched, and they want to keep the sculpture safe for future generations.
Take a one hour tour, and don’t miss the chance to buy the freshest mushrooms. Take them home and fry them in butter with a little seasoning and some grated fresh garlic - absolutely delicious, a taste of the Loire. www.le-champignon.com
Practical information:
Discover loads more things to to in the Loire at www.valdeloire-france.com; www.anjou-tourisme.com; angersloiretourism.com; www.ot-saumer.fr; www.tourainevalley.com and www.coeur-val-de-loire.com