Discover the Vineyards and Hidden Treasures of Anjou and Saumur

Cover photo credit: © Getty Images / ribeirorocha

Located in the heart of the Pays de la Loire region, Anjou is a land of vineyards, castles, and villages with timeless charm. From the majestic Château de Brissac to the fine bubbles of Saumur and the sweet wines of Layon, each stage of the journey immerses you in a world of authenticity and elegance. Let yourself be guided on a wine tour through Anjou and Saumur, where every glass tells a story and every view invites reflection.

Explore the rolling vineyards of Anjou

Joachim du Bellay, originally from the Pays de la Loire region, described it as “the sweetness of Anjou,” far from the hustle and bustle of the court. Follow in his footsteps and discover the châteaux and villages that inspired his poetry.

A Wine Tourism Route: Château de Brissac

As you explore the region, you’ll discover a perfect harmony between nature and heritage. Featuring 27 appellations, this tour leads you through historic castles, troglodyte cellars, and iconic wine estates, where tasting and conviviality take centre stage.

The Château de Brissac, standing 48 metres tall with seven floors, is the tallest castle in France. Built in the 15th century, it impresses visitors with its majestic architecture and richly decorated rooms. The chapel, the portrait gallery steeped in history, and the landscaped park with French-style gardens come together to create an enchanting setting that tells the story of Anjou.

A wine tourism tour: Saumur wine

Saumur is renowned for its sparkling wine, a must for lovers of fine, elegant bubbles. Made using traditional methods, Saumur Brut rivals the finest French sparkling wines.

Immerse yourself in the world of wine with a tasting course in Saumur or Angers, perfect for refining your knowledge. Explore Maison Louis de Grenelle, nestled in a spectacular troglodyte cellar, for a truly unique tasting experience. These galleries, carved into the soft tuffeau stone, were once used for storage. Today, they provide a striking setting for discovering the region’s wines.

A wine tourism tour: an immersive underground tasting experience

In the Saumur region, wine can also be explored through a sensory and interactive experience. Head to the Edonis vineyards, where a troglodyte cellar carved into the tuffeau stone offers something unique: an immersive tour that combines the history of the vineyard with tastings of local cuvées, all in a spectacular underground setting.

Explore the castles of the Pays de la Loire

Wine Route Through Anjou: Château de Montreuil-Bellay

This estate spans 16 hectares, where Chenin, Chardonnay, and Cabernet grapes are cultivated with passion. It’s the perfect place to stop and taste elegant, refined wines while discovering the fascinating history of Château de Montreuil-Bellay. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with the Chatelier for a guided tour of the château and a tasting of local cuvées in this exceptional setting!

In 2025, the Château de Montreuil-Bellay will celebrate its 1,000th anniversary with a programme full of festivities. Relive the Middle Ages with historical re-enactments, jousting tournaments, and immersive experiences. It’s a unique opportunity to taste the estate’s wines while delving into the history of one of Anjou’s most beautiful castles.

Wine Route Through Anjou : les Coteaux du Layon

Produced in 27 communes, Anjou Noir benefits from a unique terroir, named for its schist and sandstone soils derived from the Armorican basement. These soils yield a distinctive wine with a youthful colour and flavours reminiscent of honey and fruit. It’s the perfect place to stop, savour an exceptional wine, and explore the subtleties of this remarkable terroir.

Wine Route Through Anjou : le Château Brézé 

The Brézé vineyard, a true gem of the Pays de la Loire region, is known for its refined red wines made from Cabernet Franc, the region’s iconic grape variety. Anjou is a land of remarkable wine diversity, where the grape varieties reveal an exceptional range of aromas.

Listed as a Historic Monument, the Château de Brézé, located just ten kilometres from Saumur, stands out for its impressive and remarkably well-preserved network of troglodytic dwellings. Its neo-Gothic architecture holds traces of history, revealing an underground bakery and stone-carved wine cellars. Between wine tastings and exploring the château’s secret underground galleries, this tour offers a unique immersion in both history and local terroir.

A Sporty Adventure: Try Cycling!

For a getaway that combines nature and wine tourism, follow the Loire à Vélo cycle route, which runs alongside some of the Loire Valley’s most beautiful vineyards. From Brissac to Saumur, passing through Montreuil-Bellay, this route invites you to discover the exceptional terroirs of Anjou, with a stop in Saumur.

Anjou and Saumur offer an enchanting getaway, where exceptional vineyards and historical treasures blend in perfect harmony. Between refined tastings, majestic castles, and landscapes shaped by the Loire, each stop reveals the authentic soul of the region. Whether you’re a lover of fine wines, a heritage enthusiast, or a traveller in search of new experiences, this wine tourism journey promises unforgettable moments filled with flavour, history, and wonder. With its remarkable architecture and unique culinary identity, the region captivates both wine lovers and history buffs alike.

Find out more by visiting our website. And extend your experience with us by discovering other ideas for stays and culinary experiences in our gift shop.

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By Emilie Fallot Nguyen