The 10 Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Maine et Loire, Pays de la Loire

Clairefontaine is an old barn (XII-XIVèmes centuries) of Cistercian monks transformed into a noble mansion by the late fourteenth century. It is located in a landscaped park with flower gardens and ponds. Many domestic animals live in Clairefontaine. The mansion, private and inhabited all year round, is fully furnished with furniture XV-XVII centuries eras. The interior tour of the mansion is only guided and lasts approximately a quarter past one. It takes place for individuals and groups all year round by appointement.

Have a break at the Park Center, in Montsoreau. A sensory scenography dedicated to landscapes’ history brings you to the edge of the Loire or in the forest at nightfall. Each year, discover a new thematic exhibition. Enjoy precious family moments thanks to animations. And ask for advices to prepare your stay or plan your trip. FREE ADMISSION

This winery produces some of the most renowned wines in the entire Loire Valley.

Brissac is among the most impressive of all the Loire Valley Castles ! It is nicknamed " The Giant of the Loire Valley" !! And it is the home of the 13th duke of Brissac. It treasures inside a beautiful collection of ancient paintings and fine furnitures . The visit also includes the discovery of a unique private theater dedicated to Opera by a duchess of Brissac in the late XIX th century . Visitors will enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars of the wines produced on the estate ( especially the Rose of Anjou ) A beautiful landscaped gardened park of 200 are invites visitors to stroll alongside 5 romantic "promenade" ...

Visit and guided tours of the chateau and grounds that have had castles since 1063. Open 10 - 6:00 pm (18H) everyday during spring and summer.

Situated at 12m underground in the centre of Saumur, the Louis de Grenelle wine cellars have been producing, in the purest tradition, Cremant de Loire and Saumur Brut ever since 1859. In this former tufa quarry, you will discover the secrets of traditional wine-producing methods. After the guided tour there will be a commented wine-tasting session. You will also be able to discover wine in a wine-dedicated space.

Unique in its kind, Pierre et Lumière is an underground route where you can admire impressive sculptures representing the monuments and heritage of the Loire Valley. Hundreds of tons of stone were cut, cut and chiselled to the smallest detail. Nearly 3 years of work have been required to realize the sumptuous sculptures of castles, towns, villages and churches of our region, often carried out in low relief from the rock. A subtle luminous staging reveals the beauty of volumes and details. Lighting evolves, turns, changes colour to sublime every facet of the work. At the end of the visit, an unforgettable experience for children! A tuffeau stone, tools and wise advice. Here they are ready to create a memory that will remain etched in the stone and in their hearts.