Savennières brings together wine visits, cycling, scenery and local history. The signposted Loire à Vélo cycle route passes through the town; the “Sur les coteaux de Savennières” trail starts at Place du Mail and is suitable for cycling. If you are looking for accommodation, you can first consider whether wine, heritage or the scenery will shape your stay. For practical planning, it is also important to note the different visiting arrangements: some options are available year-round, while others require a reservation or an agreed appointment.

Wine visits and the history of Château des Vaults

At Château des Vaults, visits to the park and vineyard, along with tastings and sales in the wine cellar, are available year-round. Domaine Taillandier offers a different kind of visit: visitors are welcomed in the cellar by reservation, introduced to the vineyard, and then invited to a guided tasting. If you are considering both options, their main difference is that Taillandier requires a reservation, while Château des Vaults is described as offering visits year-round.

The estate also has a long history. The Fief du Vau was founded in 1495; in the 17th century it became Château des Vaults. The estate is home to one of Savennières’ oldest and most important wineries. This lets you place a visit to the wine cellar in the town’s historical context without confusing the different visiting options.

Cycle routes, the plateau and the landscape

For cycling plans, the signposted Loire à Vélo and the cycle-friendly “Sur les coteaux de Savennières” trail offer different points of reference. The signposted Loire à Vélo passes through Savennières. The Savennières plateau encompasses varied landscapes, including the valley slopes and the extensive bocage landscape west of Angers.

In Épiré, La Pierre Bécherelle is a 15-metre-high rock facing the northern tip of Béhuard Island. The Parc du Fresne offers a different way to experience nature: the park and its plane tree provide a preferred habitat for numerous birds and mammals, including rare bat species. Recreational fishing from the banks or by boat also continues on the Loire. Regulations may apply; check the rules in force if you wish to take part in these activities.

Churches, history and local visits

The Church of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Romain has been classified as a Monument historique since 1840. In 1214, the Battle of La Roche aux Moines between the Capetian and Plantagenet dynasties took place in Savennières. The Church of Saint-Aubin in Épiré is also part of local history: over the centuries, it was the seat of an important parish, documented since the 11th century.

The former rectory is documented in written records dating back to 1447. Its preserved salon features eight painted textile panels with a total length of 19.40 metres. You can visit the salon during Galerie Troismurs+ opening hours or by appointment with the town council, with or without a guide. As opening hours and visiting arrangements may change, it is advisable to arrange your visit in advance. The Oratoire Saint-Romain can be viewed from the public road at Carrefour Leglou, heading towards Route de La Possonnière.

Galleries and local events also offer opportunities to experience the area’s cultural history. During the Sunday market, Galerie Confluence is open all day and features creations by the artists present; their participation may vary by date. The La Concorde association holds five boules de fort competitions each year, as well as one pétanque and one belote competition. As the annual programme may change, check event dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Montsoreau, Saint-Martin-du-Bois, Chemillé-Melay, Parnay, Faye-D'anjou, Gesté, Chenillé-Changé, Beaufort-En-Vallée.

For the broader travel overview: Maine-Et-Loire.