Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne include a rich array of historical, cultural, and natural features. This charming village is situated in the heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area offers picturesque landscapes and notable landmarks, making it ideal for exploring the local heritage. Visitors can discover ancient priories, tranquil ponds, and scenic river views.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
- The most popular attractions is View of the…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
View of the Loire from Le Thoureil
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Le Thoureil also has megalithic sites on its territory, including dolmens and menhirs.
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Brissac Castle
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Étang de Joreau
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Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory
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Saint-Maur
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According to legend, in the 6th century, Saint Benedict sent a disciple named Maurus , a monk from Monte …
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Popular around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
The Loire from ocean to the source – GR 3 from Angers to Tours
Cycling around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
MTB Trails around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
Gravel biking around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
Hiking around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
Running Trails around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
Other adventures around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne
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The church, located in the village of Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, dates from the first half of the 11th century and was then dependent on the Abbey of Saint-Aubin d'Angers; its rich past is reflected in its architecture. We enter the vaulted chapel (added to the original building in the 19th century) with the baptismal font. We discover the nave, which is connected to a bay whose 13th century vault rests on older walls. We then enter the choir, the only part of the building with a 12th century vault, where we can admire the ceiling with a pointed barrel vault. Outside the church, we see the Benedictine priory of Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, a picturesque building founded in 929 that was formerly dependent on the Abbey of Saint-Aubin d'Angers. This church, open from Easter to All Saints' Day, is part of the network of "Reception churches in Anjou" open to the public. Source: https://www.anjou-tourisme.com/fr/diffusio/visites/eglise-de-saint-remy-la-varenne-brissac-loire-aubance
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The Fête du Thoureil, a festival of Loire barges, is an Angevin tradition that takes place every year in spring on the banks of the Loire at Thoureil, in Maine-et-Loire, between Saumur and Angers. The programme includes barges and old Loire sailing ships, and Loire festivities. It is considered the first festival of Loire barges between Nantes and Tours.
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A large wide beach is waiting for you here. Enjoy the golden yellow vast sandbank and the wonderfully fresh water.
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The Abbey of Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil is an abbey in Thoureil. According to legend, in the 6th century, Saint Benedict sent a disciple named Maurus , a monk from Monte Cassino , to Gaul . There he founded the Abbey of Glanfeuil, the first Benedictine abbey in Anjou , which he governed for almost forty years. The Abbey of Saint-Maur, which was destroyed by Norman invasions around the middle of the ninth century and rebuilt in the same century under the reign of Louis the Stammerer , was built and fortified as a war zone, according to the custom of the time. During the reign of Charles V , the English , driven out of Maine by Bertrand Du Guesclin , had withdrawn from Pontvallain to the Abbey of Saint-Maur. Until the 1980s, the abbey was owned by the Assumptionists ; it was a reception centre. They sold it to the Apprentis d'Auteuil, who, because they had no right to build workshops, sold it in turn to the Maine-et-Loire departmental council. The building was classified as a historical monument in 1958, classified in 1979 and registered in 1996. Today, the Abbey of Saint-Maur is managed by the OVAL association. It has converted this place into an activity centre where discovery lessons are given during school terms, but also camps during the holidays. Source Wikipedia
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A castle to visit if you have the opportunity! Otherwise, it remains very visible from the road!
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This ancient castle of the county of Anjou is located on the edge of the D 55. You will not be able to miss it if you pass through Brissac during your outing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne?
The area is rich in history. You can visit the Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory, a former Benedictine priory founded in 929, known for its medieval fresco and Renaissance fireplace. Adjacent to it is the Church of Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, featuring distinctive Angevin Gothic architecture. For ancient history, explore the Dolmen de La Bajoulière, a significant megalithic monument, and numerous menhirs in the surrounding area. Additionally, you can discover four restored covered wash houses—Fontaine, Rochereau, Marigné, and Beau Regard—along a 15 km trail.
Where can I find scenic natural attractions around Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne?
Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne is nestled within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park. A must-see is the View of the Loire from Le Thoureil, offering stunning river vistas and a charming port with traditional wooden boats. The Étang de Joreau, originally a fish-farming pond, is now a tranquil spot perfect for leisurely walks and picnics within the natural park.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Étang de Joreau offers picnic areas and easy walks through the woods, where children can look for animal fingerprints. Brissac Castle, known as the 'giant of the Loire,' provides an engaging historical experience with its impressive size and architecture. The Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory also welcomes families to explore its historical grounds.
What outdoor activities can I do near Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and running. For detailed routes and difficulties, explore the guides for Hiking around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne, MTB Trails around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne, and Running Trails around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne. The area is also part of the renowned 'La Loire à Vélo' cycling route.
Are there any notable castles or grand estates nearby?
Absolutely. Just 15 kilometers south of Angers, you'll find Brissac Castle, famously known as the 'giant of the Loire.' It boasts seven floors and 204 rooms, making it the highest castle in France. The Château de Montgeoffroy is another significant historical site in the vicinity. While private manors like Les Cloteaux, Chauvigné, and Boissay are not open to the public, they add to the scenic charm and can be admired from a distance during local walks.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne?
The period from Easter to All Saints' Day (typically late March/early April to early November) is ideal, as many attractions, including the Church of Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, are open to the public during these months. This timeframe also offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities like walking and cycling through the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park and along the Loire River.
Can I find easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, there are several easy and pleasant walks available. The area around the Étang de Joreau offers accessible paths through the woods. For a short, easy hike, consider the 3 km 'Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory loop from Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne' trail. You can find more options in the Hiking around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne guide.
Are there any unique local events or festivals?
Yes, the region hosts cultural events. The Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory is known for hosting the 'Hortomnales,' a popular gourd festival. Additionally, the nearby village of Le Thoureil, with its small port, hosts the annual Fête du Thoureil, a festival celebrating Loire barges and traditional wooden sailing boats.
What are some of the most popular trails for outdoor enthusiasts?
For hikers, the 'Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory – Bajoulière Dolmen loop' (16.4 km, moderate) is a popular choice. Mountain bikers can enjoy routes like the 'Small mtb circuit – Le Thoureil bords de Loire loop' (32 km, moderate). Runners might like the 'Menhir de Cumeray loop from Le Thoureil' (9.4 km, moderate). More detailed information and routes can be found in the respective guides for Hiking, MTB, and Running around Saint-Rémy-La-Varenne.
Can I bring my dog to the attractions or on trails?
While specific dog-friendly policies vary by individual attraction, the numerous walking and cycling paths within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park are generally suitable for dogs on a leash. Always check local signage or specific attraction websites for their pet policies before visiting. Natural areas like the Étang de Joreau are often welcoming for dog walks.
Are there any ancient religious sites besides the Priory?
Yes, the Abbey of Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil in Le Thoureil is another significant religious and historical site. Founded in the 6th century, it was one of the first Benedictine abbeys in Anjou. Though it has undergone destruction and rebuilding over centuries, it is now an activity center and a classified historical monument.
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