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Places to Visit
Listed below are just some of the attractions, châteaux and stunning Loire Valley towns waiting to be discovered, all of which are conveniently close to 'La Bellevue'.
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Highly Recommended
Candes St. Martin: set along the banks where the Vienne and Loire rivers meet, Candes St. Martin is one of France's most beautiful villages and a must see whilst in the Loire Valley.
Montsoreau & le Château de Montsoreau: every 2nd Sunday of the month Montsoreau hosts a superb 'flea market' set along the banks of the Loire. Dominated by its imposing château, Montsoreau is extremely pretty and another must see of the Loire.
Fontevraud l'Abbaye: steeped in Anglo/French history Fontevraud l'Abbaye is one of the Loire's most popular attractions. The Abbey warrants a minimum half day visit and the quaint town of Fontevraud is a delight to discover.
Neighbouring each other, Candes St. Martin, Montsoreau and Fontevraud l'Abbaye are a highlight of the Loire Valley and make for a fabulous day or 2 days out.
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'Caveau'
Located in the heart of one of the most desirable and historical towns in the Loire Valley, why not drop into our caveau for un verre or une dégustation?
Oozing French charm and nesting on the bord de la loire the surroundings couldn't be more inviting.
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Châteaux
Château d'Angers: immense in size Château d'Angers is home to the Apocalypse Tapestry, 100 metres long the tapestry depicts the Apocalypse as described in the Bible in the Book of Revelations.
Château d'Azay le Rideau: surrounded by a lake Château d'Azay le Rideau is an exceptionally pretty chateau set in peaceful grounds, all of which ooze fairy-tale romance.
Château de Brézé: is rich in history and boosts some of the deepest ditches surrounding a château in Europe. Located 13 kms from Pouançay, Château de Brézé can be easily added to your 'must see list'.
Château de Brissac: is one of the few châteaux which still remains as a family home. Set in beautiful grounds, guided tours are conducted of the family residence. Well worth a visit.
Château de Montreuil-Bellay: dominating the delightful town of Montreuil-Bellay and located 8 kms from Pouançay, this will be your most seen château during your stay in the Loire.
Château de Montsoreau: the only château to be built with its 'feet in the water', Le Château de la Dame stands proudly on the edge of the Loire river and has been lovingly rennovated over the past 2 years.
Château de Saumur: proudly stands high above the medieval town of Saumur overlooking the Loire river.
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Golf Courses
Golf Today Course Guide: lists the available golf courses in the Anjou, Maine et Loire & Vendee region which vary in distance from La Bellevue.
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Hot Air Balloon Rides
France Montgolfières: operating throughout France, France Montgolfières offers breath-taking take-off's from some of the Loire's most famous châteaux.
Office de Tourisme de Tours: half or whole day excursions are available taking you to see your favourite châteaux from the sky.
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Museum's
Musée des Blindes (Museum of Tanks): located in Saumur, the musée des blindes has one of the largest collections of amoured equipment exhibited in the world. Started in 1950 the round-up of both WWI & WWII vehicles has been collected from a vast number of countries.
Musée du Champignon (Museum of Mushrooms): located in St-Hilaire-St-Florent, near Saumur, learn about the humble Champignon de Paris, the most commonly recognised mushroom, how it got its name and why over 80% of France's mushrooms are grown in the Loire Valley.
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Wine Festivals
The Wine Market, Saumur: held the first weekend in September, Saumur hosts the Wine Market, annually increasing in popularity and a small entrance fee of 3€, providing you with an attractive glass to sample the wines, the atmosphere is warm, festive and fun! Gérald and I were there, take a look at our photographs to see what the day involved.
Fête des Vendanges: this fantastic 3 Day Festival held in Montmarte, Paris celebrates the 'first cut' of France's oldest vines. Gérald and I were there representing Domaine de la Paleine, take a look at some of our photographs to see what adventures we had. If a long weekend in Paris appeals to you, I highly recommend taking it in October!
Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants: Porte de Versailles, Paris du jeudi 22 au lundi 26 novembre, 2007. With 1,000 vignerons from all over France this event is busy to say the very least as it is open to the professional sector and general public. Look out for Domaine de la Paleine, AOC Saumur.
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