6 Unique Gites in the Heart of the Loire

 
 
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Walking Holidays

walking

The Loire has many footpaths and trails to follow, many of which make use of the National Walking Paths which cross France. Walking is not an end in itself, but the best way to discover Nature and the world around us. Below is a suggested itinary of circular walks to make the most of your holiday; and make use of all your senses and see hear smell touch and taste all the delights of the countryside around La Roultiere. Maps are available at La Roultiere, however please do let Gill know if you would like maps forwarded to you before the start of your holiday, as this can be arranged by email. The walks suggested here are on a self'drive and self guided basis, and also give the time in the day to visit other tourist attractions on route. Gill has details of many more walks and rambles at La Roultiere.

Sunday: The Breilloise Stroll; an easy afternoon walk departing from La Roultiere. A circular walk on a waymarked trail around the back lanes of Breil and along some of the old cart tracks.

Monday : Heritage and Woodland; drive to FONTEVRAUD (famous for its abbey). A 7km walk through woodland and along field tracks, taking in views of the abbey, and alleys within the village. There is a picnic spot and playground in the village near the starting point. The Abbey at Fontevraud is a UNESCO world heritage site and is worth a visit. It is the final resting place of English King Richard the Lionheart. The village has several Salon du The and Cafes for refreshment.

Tuesday : Markets and Vineyards; Set of early and drive to the Market town of BOURGUEIL and take in the sights and sounds of the wonderful market, and of course buy some delicious regional food for your picnic. Afterwards, drive 3km to St Nicholas de Bourgueil to park and follow the waymarked trail through Vineyards and forests for 14km.

Wednesday : Medieval Trails:Drive to the medieval village of CUNALT on the banks of the LOIRE. This mostly shaded route is 8km and if mostly flat apart from a steep rise at the start. After your walk it is possible to drive back towards Saumur and visit the troglodyte attractions (Mushroom caves or Parc Minature Pierre and Lumiere, a cave full of sculptures of the Loire chateau and attractions) and the famous sparkling wine makers Bouvet Ladubay who make Saumur Brut (better than Champagne).

Thursday: Meandering Valley and undiscovered Loire Drive to MARCILLY SUR MAULNE (10mins away) for the start of this 9km walK passing through the village of Marcilly and Braye sur Maulne. This walk takes you along the beautiful Maulne Valley and river and is gently underlating. Has a very much "undiscovered" feel about it, being very much off the tourist trail!

Friday: Chateau and Flood Plain Drive to LANGEAIS and take time to visit the Chateau in the middle of town...if is one of the best preserved in the region, with original furniture and restored gardens. Afterwards drive across the old town bridge and head to Brehemont on the south side of the Loire for the start of a 12km stroll. It takes you through the landscape of the Unesco heritage site, with Brehemont having a unique geographical location. There is a bar and bistro in the village for refreshment, or return to Langeais for a meal.