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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Montsoreau.
Nestled between the banks of the Loire River and the rolling hills of the Pays de la Loire region, Montsoreau is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Here, time seems to stand still as you wander through historical streets, explore majestic castles, and savor the flavors of local cuisine.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Montsoreau offers a world of possibilities that are just waiting to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Montsoreau:
1. Château de Montsoreau
A Renaissance castle situated in the Loire Valley of France.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the castle to see the beautifully restored rooms and learn about its fascinating history. Visit the contemporary art museum inside the castle, featuring works by artists such as Daniel Buren and Sarkis.
Take a stroll around the castle’s grounds, which include a moat and lovely river views.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the castle’s rooftop terrace, which offer panoramic vistas of the Loire Valley.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the offseason to avoid the crowds and get a more intimate look at the castle.
Make sure to check out the castle’s event schedule before your visit, as they often host live music and other cultural events.
2. Loire à Vélo cycling trail
Loire à Vélo is a cycling trail that runs along the Loire River in France, stretching for over 800 kilometers and passing through several picturesque towns and villages.
Montsoreau is one such town located on the banks of the Loire and is a popular stop for cyclists on the trail.
What to see or do: Cycling along the Loire à Vélo trail is the primary activity for visitors to Montsoreau. The town itself is quaint and charming, with narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and an impressive chateau that overlooks the river.
Along the trail, visitors will pass through numerous vineyards, historic landmarks, and scenic viewpoints.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a visit to the Chateau de Montsoreau, a 15th-century castle that has been expertly restored and now houses a museum of contemporary art.
Visitors can tour the castle’s interior, admire the views from the battlements, and explore the contemporary art exhibits.
Insider travel tips: – The trail can be steep in some places, so make sure to bring a bike with gears or plan on renting one in town.
3. Maison du Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine
Maison du Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine is a visitor center dedicated to promoting the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park.
What to see or do: Learn about the history of the park, its natural and cultural assets and the various activities and events organized by the park authorities.
You can explore the interactive exhibits and multimedia shows and get all the information about the trails, cycling routes, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities in the park.
Don’t miss: The vintage car exhibition showcasing the beautiful cars from the 20th century, used in the movies and TV shows shot in the park.
Insider travel tips: Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic by the scenic Loire River. Buy local wine, honey, and cheese from the park’s shop to support the local producers.
4. Abbaye de Fontevraud
A medieval abbey located near Montsoreau in the Loire Valley of France.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive Gothic architecture, visit the burial site of the Plantagenet dynasty, and wander through the serene gardens.
Don’t miss: The spectacular kitchen, which is the largest preserved medieval kitchen in France and boasts a huge fireplace and impressive chimney.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the audio guide to learn more about the history of the abbey and its fascinating past.
Additionally, the nearby village of Montsoreau is a charming place to grab a bite to eat or explore the local markets.
5. Musée de la marine de Loire
Musée de la marine de Loire is a museum located in the town of Montsoreau in the Loire Valley, France.
What to see or do: The museum is dedicated to the maritime history of the Loire River and features exhibits related to boats, shipbuilding, fishing, and river transportation.
Visitors can see a collection of models of traditional Loire boats, including the flat-bottomed gabares that were used for transporting goods.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of a 19th-century boat that visitors can board and explore.
The boat has been reconstructed using traditional methods and materials and offers a unique glimpse into the engineering and craftsmanship of the era.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in a picturesque setting overlooking the Loire River and the nearby Château de Montsoreau.
Visitors can combine a visit to the museum with a stroll through the town’s medieval streets and a visit to the chateau.
The museum is open every day from April to November and on weekends in March and December.
6. Domaine de Roiffé Golf Course
Domaine de Roiffé Golf Course is a championship 18-hole golf course located in the scenic Loire Valley in France.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a round of golf on this challenging course that has been designed to cater to both novice and experienced players.
The course features water hazards, sand traps, and fast greens that add to the excitement of this beautiful course.
Don’t miss: Aside from the golf course, visitors can also explore the surrounding countryside that offers stunning views of the Loire Valley. The Domaine de Roiffé Golf Course is also home to a restaurant that serves delicious French cuisine.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tee time in advance to avoid disappointment.
7. Les Caves Duhard wine tasting
Les Caves Duhard is a renowned wine shop and tasting cellar located in Montsoreau, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can taste and buy a vast selection of excellent wines from different regions of France, including Sancerre, Chinon, and Vouvray.
The cellar also offers a wide range of Champagnes, spirits, and liqueurs to suit every taste and budget.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the rare and unique wines that are not widely available in other places.
The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about their wine, so be sure to get recommendations and insight from them.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to reserve your tasting in advance because the shop can get quite busy, especially during the summer months.
8. Les Jardins de la Rive
Les Jardins de la Rive is an ornamental garden located in the charming village of Montsoreau, Loire Valley, France.
What to see or do: The garden features a beautiful collection of perennials, roses, peonies, and clematis, as well as a pond with aquatic plants and a water fountain.
Take a stroll through the garden and admire the colorful and fragrant blooms, or simply sit and relax in the peaceful setting.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Les Jardins de la Rive is the stunning view of the Loire River.
Be sure to walk to the edge of the garden and gaze out at the picturesque scenery of the river and the surrounding hills.
Insider travel tips: Visit Les Jardins de la Rive during the spring and early summer months, when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is mild.
The garden is open everyday from April to October, and guided tours are available in English and French. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful views and unique flowers.
9. Musée des Blindés
Musée des Blindés is a military tank museum located in the village of Saumur, France.
What to see or do: The museum houses over 800 tanks and armored vehicles from different countries and periods, including the first tanks used during World War I and modern-day models.
Visitors can admire the impressive collection and learn about the evolution of tank technology through the years.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the opportunity to take a tank ride. Visitors can experience riding in a tank and feel like a soldier on the battlefield.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least half a day in the museum to see everything in detail.
10. Saint-Pierre Church
Saint-Pierre Church is a beautiful historic church located in the charming village of Montsoreau in the Loire Valley of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows. The church also houses several notable sculptures and paintings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the intricate details on the exterior of the building, including the ornate gargoyles and stunning flying buttresses.
Insider travel tips: If possible, try to visit during one of the church’s concerts or special events. It’s a wonderful way to experience the beauty and serenity of this historic space.
Additionally, be sure to take a stroll through the charming village of Montsoreau and admire the stunning views of the nearby Loire River.
11. Musée de la Figurine Historique
The Musée de la Figurine Historique is a small museum dedicated to the history of miniatures and figurines located in the beautiful town of Montsoreau in France’s Loire Valley.
What to see or do: The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 14,000 figures and models, ranging from the prehistoric era to the modern times.
Visitors can explore the evolution of the art of miniatures, from the earliest terracotta soldiers of Ancient China to the intricate metal figurines of the Renaissance and beyond.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s extensive collection of military figurines, which provides an impressive overview of the history of warfare from ancient times to the present.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a fan of miniature modeling or history in general, this charming museum is definitely worth a visit.
Plus, Montsoreau itself is a picturesque town with a stunning castle and a bustling Sunday market, so be sure to set aside enough time to explore the area.
12. Château de Brézé
A stunning château located in the Loire Valley, France.
What to see or do: Visit the underground tunnels beneath the château, explore the lavish interiors, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Don’t miss: The unique moat within the château walls, and the opportunity to taste the estate’s wine.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the quieter times of the day to fully appreciate the grandeur of the château without the crowds.
Additionally, take a short drive to the nearby town of Montsoreau for some charming cafes and restaurants.
13. Château de la Moze
A historic castle situated in Montsoreau, France that is now a luxury bed and breakfast.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the castle and its grounds, including the stunning gardens and vineyard. Relax in the outdoor pool or library.
Enjoy a gourmet breakfast or dinner on the terrace.
Don’t miss: The view of the Loire River from the castle’s rooftop terrace.
Insider travel tips: Book a suite with a balcony for the best views. Ask the staff for recommendations on local wineries and restaurants.
Take a bike ride along the Loire River for a scenic adventure.
14. Les Caves de la Genevraie wine cellar tour
Les Caves de la Genevraie is a wine cellar located in the charming village of Montsoreau in the Loire Valley.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the wine cellar to discover the process of winemaking and learn about the history of the vineyard and the production of wine in the Loire Valley.
You can also taste a variety of wines, including the famous Saumur Champigny, and purchase bottles to take home.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the unique white wine made from the Chenin Blanc grape and taste the sparkling wine produced using the traditional method.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance to ensure availability. If you plan to purchase wine, bring a cooler bag to keep it at the correct temperature during your journey.
Additionally, make a day trip of it and explore the picturesque town of Montsoreau, which is known for its stunning castle and art galleries.