Explore Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance via a clearly defined hiking trail, the Aubance wine country and sites of cultural and historical interest. The Sentier d'interprétation du vignoble de l'Aubance: vignoble et géologie is 4.9 kilometres long, rated easy and takes about two hours to walk. Other highlights include a viewpoint on the D127, Pont aux Moines and specific wine experiences. You can tailor your stay to your interests: exercise, scenic views, local history or tastings.
Hiking Trail and Wine Panorama
At 4.9 kilometres and approximately two hours on foot, the Sentier d'interprétation du vignoble de l'Aubance: vignoble et géologie offers a concrete timeframe for a hike. The time is an estimate, but it can help you fit the walk into your day. The viewpoint on the D127 in Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance offers a different perspective, with panoramic views across the Aubance wine-growing area. The trail is the option with a specified walking distance, while the viewpoint focuses on views of the vineyards. These two attractions appeal to different interests; they are not necessarily part of the same route.
Bridge, Name and the Aubance
Pont aux Moines is a two-arched bridge designated as a natural attraction along a route in Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance. Its name also has a historical connection: it recalls a toll once collected on the road by monks from the priory. The bridge’s design and the origin of its name offer two different points of interest to look out for during a visit. The Aubance, meanwhile, is a tributary of the Louet. Anglers value it for its stocks of bream, pike, roach and eels. Its connection to the Louet places the river in context, while the fish species mentioned highlight its appeal for fishing. Alongside winegrowing and architectural history, the river offers another theme to explore.
Winegrowing and Tastings
The Anjou Villages Brissac and Coteaux de l'Aubance appellations are produced locally in the Saint-Melaine-sur-Aubance area. Château Princé regularly holds open days. During tastings, the estate presents wines made using organic and biodynamic methods; wine tastings are also offered in a new tasting cellar. The estate has 15 hectares of vineyards, in a single contiguous area around the property. Free parking is available near the estate. The appellations provide regional context, while the tastings offer specific visitor experiences.
Another wine experience is available at Domaine de Haute Perche: the offering includes a tour of the vineyard and wine cellar, followed by a tasting of food and wine pairings. The experiences differ in format: Château Princé offers open days and wine tastings, while at the Domaine the tasting is combined with a visit to the vineyard and cellar. You can choose according to what interests you most. Dates and booking arrangements for the experiences mentioned may change; check the details before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Vihiers, Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Florent, Le Fuilet, Fontevrault-L'abbaye, Charcé-Saint-Ellier-Sur-Aubance, Chaudefonds-Sur-Layon, Saint-Jean-Des-Mauvrets, Chemellier
For the broader travel guide: Maine-Et-Loire.
