Between the river and vines, wineries and windmills, allow yourself to be transported by the Aubance vineyards as you discover the incredible variety of scenery and appellations on this 57 km circuit.
Let’s hit the road for the Aubance vineyards
After a little look around Angers, head for the town of Ponts-de-Cé via the Dumnacus bridge. From here, simply follow the signs ‘Route des vins de l’Aubance’ from one picturesque village to another.
If you are looking for a spot with good views of the Aubance valley, the panoramic vistas at Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance are stunning in every season.
Visit Château de Brissac
Meet the ‘Giant of the Loire Valley’ close up. With seven storeys, Château Brissac is the tallest château in France. Take a guided tour to discover this extraordinary property which has been the residence of the dukes of Brissac for nearly over 500 years. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the magnificent château grounds which harbour centuries-old trees and even a small vineyard.
At the end of the visit, the guide will take you to the winery where you can taste the Anjou Villages Brissac and Rosé d’Anjou wines made on the estate.
Along your way, you’ll also find Domaine de Bablut, Domaine Sainte-Anne, Clos des Mailles, Domaine de la Gonorderie, Domaine de la Belle Étoile, Les Caves de la Loire and more.
Along the paths of the Coteaux de l’Aubance
Don’t hesitate to stop off in Blaison-Gohier. Classed as a ‘Petite Cité de Caractère’, this small traditional village where traces of 15-century-old buildings can be found.
Take a walk along the footpaths through the Aubance vineyards and enjoy a friendly welcome from winemakers at their wineries. Make the most of your visit to taste red, white, rosé or even sparkling wines, according to your tastes.
Along your route: Domaine de Rochambeau, Domaine des Deux Moulins, Domaine de Haute-Perche, Château de Bois Brinçon.
Enjoy exceptional vistas across the Loire
Next, head in the direction of Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire and cross the bridge; it offers an incredible viewpoint over the Loire, which is France’s longest river Wait until sunset for a magical experience on the riverbank.
In the morning, spend some time as a family at the Loire Odyssée visitor centre to learn all about Europe’s last ‘wild’ river.
Want to get out on the water? Consider taking a cruise on one of the excursion boats to see some magnificent scenery. Keep your eyes open and you might spot some of the Loire’s rich variety of wildlife.
To return to Angers, take the Loire ‘levée’, an old river embankment road dating from the 12th century. You will pass through Bohalle, then La Daguenière and its two islands in the Loire, Ile du Hardas and Ile de Mézangeon.
On arriving in Angers, it is worth having a quick look around the castle in the city centre. Unwind after your trip in one of Angers’ wine bars and restaurants where you can continue discovering Anjou wines and local specialities.