On the banks of the Loire, Saint-Mathurin-Sur-Loire brings together nature, art and regional culture. Loire Odyssée offers a hands-on introduction to the river landscape, while galleries, historic architecture and seasonal events round out the picture. You can shape your stay around your own interests, without having to experience everything in the same way.
Loire Odyssée and the river landscape
The Loire Odyssée visitor centre is on the banks of the Loire and has more than 250 m² of exhibition space. The exhibition explores the river, its flora and fauna, and its special relationship with the people who live along its banks. An interactive presentation also explains how the Loire works, its biodiversity and its landscapes. The exhibition’s themes may be refreshed over time.
Those who would like to explore the natural environment outdoors can join regular guided outings along the banks of the Loire offered by Loire Odyssée. These include family activities on the European beaver’s tracks and aquatic life, held on Wednesdays during school holidays. Check individual dates and themes in advance. This gives you a choice between a visit to the exhibition space and guided nature experiences.
The Circuit and local heritage
The Circuit découverte – Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire starts and ends at Place Charles Sigogne, opposite Loire Odyssée. Its seven interpretation stops introduce the heritage history of the delegated commune of Saint-Mathurin-Sur-Loire. While Loire Odyssée focuses on the river and its natural environment, the Circuit turns the spotlight on local history. This distinction can help you decide which subject you would like to focus on during your visit.
The Église Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire also tells the story of the area’s architecture: it was built in campaigns in 1840 and 1846 under the architect Villers. There are two more places to see contemporary art, each with a different focus. The Atelier Guy Montis is a permanent venue for the works of painter Guy Montis and also hosts exhibitions by invited artists. Visitor arrangements and opening hours may change; check locally before your visit. The Galerie Hors-Champ is in the centre of the delegated commune and offers an annual programme of contemporary art exhibitions. Its programme changes with the seasons.
Events and regional specialities
Ban’Quai takes place each year on the third weekend of September in Saint-Mathurin-Sur-Loire and opens the Loire-Authion cultural season. Exact dates and the programme vary each year, so plan your visit around the relevant edition. Its recurring timing makes the festival a special seasonal fixture, while the details change from year to year.
For a more everyday glimpse of the town, there is the Marché Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire: it is held regularly on Tuesdays from 8 am to 1 pm at Place de l’Église. Check the market schedule before travelling. Blanc de Sable, a Loire-Authion speciality, is available at Boulangerie Maison Boisson, 10 place de l’église. As sales details may change, it is worth checking locally if this stop is important to your plans.
Getting there and finding your way around
The railway stop is called “Halte ferroviaire de St-Mathurin” and is located at Gare SNCF, 49250 Saint-Mathurin. Check service and connection information before travelling. La Loire à Vélo passes through Saint-Mathurin-Sur-Loire; check the route and signage before setting off. There is a free, accessible car park at Place du 19 mars 1962, below Loire Odyssée. Parking conditions may change during works or events.
Discover more destinations: Pruillé, Les Ulmes, Beauvau, Saint-Paul-Du-Bois, Artannes-Sur-Thouet, Neuvy-en-Mauges, Jarzé, Chambellay.
For the broader travel overview: Maine-Et-Loire.
