The Lower Angevin Valleys extend in particular around the Sarthe, Loir and Saint-Aubin island. This region is made up of wetlands that are flooded part of the year. Once the waters have receded, you can walk or cycle there for a moment’s peace and rejuvenation to the song of birds, the sound of the water and the rays of the sun glistening between the poplar groves.
In this area where protected plants and animals have taken up residence, you’ll discover towns like Briollay, Écouflant and Rives-du-Loir-en-Anjou, which are full of tourist sites and wonderful heritage!
The Lower Angevin Valleys also provide the perfect playground: swimming, hiking, horse riding, canoeing, kayaking... Whether you’re with friends or family, you’ll find the activity you need to switch off!
The essentials in the Lower Angevin Valleys
- Enjoy watching the sun rising over a field of snake's head fritillary flowers in April. These upside-down tulips with their fuchsia patterns are stunning!
- Pull on the chains of the Roche-Foulques ferry, as a family, to cross from the Villevêque bank to the Soucelles.
- Discover the educational huts on the banks of the Sarthe and watch the birds in Briollay.
- Try tree climbing with your other half in Écouflant; a walk balancing up in the trees.
- Laze in the sun on the beach after a summer swim at the Sablières d'Écouflant or near the Engrenage Mill in Villevêque.
- Listen to a jazz concert, a glass of Anjou rosé in hand, at Les Tonnelles restaurant on the banks of the Loir in Villevêque.
To discover several must-see tourist sites in our destination, book your Angers City Pass 24, 48 or 72 hours online. It’s great value and valid in the Lower Angevin Valleys and throughout the Destination Angers region.
Sites to visit in the Lower Angevin Valleys
Activities in the Lower Angevin Valleys
Recharge your batteries hiking or cycling
Sarthe towpath and Sablières - on foot
Along your route, you’ll follow the Sarthe towpath, where you can take a break in the shade of the oaks in the Sablières Park and enjoy a quick swim. Also, don't miss the garden of the presbytery and the five senses for a total change of scenery!
From Plessis-Bourré to the Lower Angevin Valleys - on foot
Start by strolling through the pretty town of Briollay, and don't forget to see the Palais de Justice which dates from the 12th century! You can walk along the banks of the Sarthe, stop there for a picnic break and continue to enjoy the soothing atmosphere of the Lower Angevin Valleys. You’ll also pass in front of Château du Plessis-Bourré, standing on its moat - simply sublime!
Tour of the banks of the Loir - on foot
A great way to experience this green setting on the banks of the Loir. By following this route, you can take the opportunity to visit Château de Villevêque and the water mill. Cross the river on the Roche-Foulques ferry to visit the town of Soucelles. Our advice: walk a few metres away from the path and climb the hillside to see the charming Saint-Julien chapel (12th century).
Circuit also suitable for bikes.
The Loir Valley - by bike
First stage (or last) of the major Loir Valley cycling route (320 km), this route is signposted to Villevêque (Rives-du-Loir-en-Anjou) and crosses part of the Lower Angevin Valleys.
In the heart of the Lower Angevin Valleys - on gravel paths
You’ll cross a marsh and follow rivers through the magnificent natural landscapes of the Lower Angevin Valleys. An ideal route to try gravel cycling (bikes for all surfaces).
The Lower Angevin Valleys aren’t the only treasure in this region... So why not continue your journey to discover the charming towns around La Mayenne, around the Loire and the slate quarries, or maybe the towns and villages in the heart of the confluence and vineyards?
