Shady paths and ponds in the Bois du Fouilloux, along with a 1.4-kilometre fitness trail: Saint-Martin-du-Fouilloux combines outdoor activities with its own cultural programme. When planning your stay, it helps to distinguish between the landscape and outdoor pursuits on the one hand, and the commune’s history on the other. The Bois and Parc des Fontaines are ideal for walks and outdoor activities; the Chemin patrimonial foliosain, Saint-Martin Church and municipal events offer a different perspective on the area.
Forest, Ponds and Paths
In the eastern part of the Bois du Fouilloux, ponds lie alongside shaded paths used for walking. The forest is designated an Espace Naturel Sensible (Sensitive Natural Area). Since June 2024, the Étang du Flageolet has also been open to the public again. You can reach it from the Bois or via the hamlet of Flageolet. This makes the pond a destination in its own right as part of a nature-focused stay, while the two access routes mentioned above help with finding your way.
For exercise, there is a 1.4-kilometre fitness trail in the Bois du Fouilloux. Its stated length sets it apart from the paths used for walking. The Circuit du Fouilloux runs through Saint-Martin-du-Fouilloux, passing through a succession of forests and by ponds. It offers another way to experience the woodland and waterways as a hiking route. The starting point is listed as the Mairie car park on Rue du Petit Anjou, 49170 Saint-Martin-du-Fouilloux. A public transport stop is less than 500 metres from the Circuit’s starting point.
Another natural attraction is Parc des Fontaines. This municipal park is intended for family walks and is also used for hiking and fishing. The activities on offer therefore differ: the Bois is known for its shaded paths, ponds and fitness trail, among other things, while Parc des Fontaines also offers hiking and fishing.
The former Petit Anjou narrow-gauge railway is part of the landscape’s history. Its route ran through the Bois du Fouilloux and connected Angers with Beaupréau and Cholet. The former railway line adds an aspect of transport and regional history to the area’s natural attractions, but should not be mistaken for a current transport connection.
Local History and Cultural Programme
The Chemin patrimonial foliosain is a visitor trail through nine landmark sites in the commune. You can get a free printed brochure about the trail from the town hall; it is also available to download. The trail offers its own way to explore the commune’s history, while the Bois du Fouilloux and the parks focus on the landscape and outdoor activities.
The parish of Saint-Martin was founded around 1146. The bells of Saint-Martin Church also tell of different eras: the smaller bell was cast in 1676, and the main bell in 1784. Both are protected as historic monuments. A feudal motte is also a protected historic monument. Together with the visitor trail, these landmarks offer a tangible starting point for anyone interested in the area’s history.
The municipal cultural programme complements the historic sites with events. Over the course of the year, the commune organises two to three exhibitions on different topics. Events for Heritage Days take place in early September. The commune also supports and promotes initiatives such as the FĂŞte de la Musique. Cultural offerings thus range from permanent historic landmarks to events and changing exhibition themes.
Through the Échanges de Savoirs programme, people of all ages can share knowledge and skills at friendly get-togethers. Possible contributions include simple bicycle repair lessons or sharing favourite local routes. The programme offers another community-based way to access local knowledge and practical skills.
Choose Your Focus for Your Stay
If you are looking for a hotel in Saint-Martin-du-Fouilloux, you can start by considering whether nature or heritage will be the main focus of your stay. Forest paths, ponds and parks offer a different experience from the historic sites, visitor trail and cultural programme. This lets you choose according to your interests, without having to fit every activity into a fixed itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Combrée, Villedieu-La-Blouère, Saint-Georges-Sur-Loire, Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Maulévrier, La Pommeraye, Briollay, Mouliherne.
See the broader travel overview: Maine-Et-Loire.
