Top 12 Activities to Do in Saumur
Saumur, located in the Loire Valley, is a city full of history and charm.
Planning to visit Saumur? Discover our selection of 12 must-do activities in Saumur during your holiday at our campsite in Angers, Maine-et-Loire.
Discover Saumur Castle and the Horse Museum
Perched on its promontory 60 meters above the Loire River, Saumur Castle seems to watch over the town. With its slender towers, light-colored stone, and slate roof, it reveals a fairy-tale setting. Inside, two delights await: a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and a Horse Museum that will captivate both adults and children. From ancient saddles and armor to equestrian history, immerse yourself in a fascinating world to explore during your stay at our campsite near the Loire Valley castles.
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes: the climb is a bit challenging, and the staircase leading to the lookout point is quite steep! But the view is well worth the effort.
Experience the prestige of Saumur’s Cadre Noir
In the town of Saumur, the horse is king—and the Cadre Noir is its castle! Renowned worldwide, this prestigious riding school welcomes you for guided tours and spectacular gala performances.
In the stables, the large riding arenas, or beneath the impressive dome of the riding hall, you can discover the art of French classical horsemanship in all its nobility.
Une sortie idéale en famille, accessible même pour les non-initiés. Et si vous êtes curieux, optez pour la visite "en famille" : ludique et instructive.
Be amazed at the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud
Monumental and full of surprises, the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is a must-see on any visit to Saumur. This medieval gem of the Loire Valley is one of the largest monastic complexes in Europe. Here, you walk in the footsteps of the Plantagenets, whose effigies rest beneath the vaults of the abbey church.
But Fontevraud is much more than a static monument: it is a living place that blends heritage, contemporary art, and culture.
Venture into the depths of the Pierre et Lumière Troglodyte Park
Bienvenue dans un monde souterrain sculpté à même la roche ! Le Parc Pierre et Lumière abrite une œuvre minutieusement taillée dans le tuffeau, cette pierre blanche typique des Pays de la Loire. Églises, monuments et villages du Maine-et-Loire s'animent dans l’obscurité via des jeux de lumière.
The atmosphere is magical, almost surreal!
A little tip: consider combining this visit with the nearby Mushroom Museum.
Travel back in time at the Tank Museum
Impressive—that’s the word visitors most often use when leaving the Tank Museum. In this part of Anjou, more than 800 vehicles trace the evolution of tanks and armored vehicles from the 20th century to the present day. You can move from a World War I tank to a modern behemoth in just a few steps.
Everything is clearly explained, children love it, and even those who aren’t military history enthusiasts find it fascinating.
If you enjoy this theme, the Cavalry Museum perfectly complements your visit to this Saumur site.
Admire the Castle from the Loire River
During your visit to Saumur, head over to Île Offard, just across the bridge, to admire Saumur Castle. The view is simply magical! On clear days, this Loire Valley landmark is perfectly reflected in the water, seeming to float between the sky and the river.
For an even more unforgettable experience, hop on a traditional boat! Cruising on the water with the castle in the background is truly a charming and idyllic moment.
Uncover the secrets of the Combier Distillery
Looking for a unique and flavorful visit? Head to the Combier Distillery, right in the heart of Saumur. You’ll uncover the behind-the-scenes of a historic establishment founded in 1834, a pioneer in the art of distillation.
Among copper vats, antique stills, and intoxicating aromas, the visit is as sensory as it is educational. And of course, it ends with a tasting session (for those over 18!) to sample the house’s famous liqueurs and syrups.
Visit the Jardin du Puygirault, a Garden Paradise
Here’s a garden like no other: at Puygirault, more than just plants are cultivated—you’ll also find the preservation of an ancient craft. This educational garden takes you on a journey through time, tracing the history of kitchen gardens from the Middle Ages to today.
You’ll learn countless things about agricultural techniques, heritage plants, and the cycles of nature. It’s calm, peaceful, and beautifully arranged—a true little green haven where you’ll enjoy slowing down!
Taste the sparkling wines of Anjou in a fine bubbly cellar
It’s impossible to visit Saumur and the Loire Valley without tasting its iconic sparkling wine: Saumur Brut! And for that, nothing beats a cellar tour. Maine-et-Loire is full of wineries, many housed in former troglodyte galleries.
At Bouvet-Ladubay, Gratien & Meyer, or Ackerman, you’ll uncover the secrets of the traditional method. The tour is often followed by a tasting of several vintages in an elegant and authentic setting—perfect for your stay at our campsite near Saumur.
Venture into the tunnels of the Mushroom Museum
The Mushroom Museum, housed in former troglodyte tunnels, immerses you in the fascinating world of mushrooms. From cultivation to harvesting, as well as their culinary and medicinal uses, everything is explained clearly and simply.
And it’s not just a museum—it’s also a working mushroom farm! Here, you’ll discover oyster mushrooms, shiitakes, and other exotic varieties growing right on the walls.
Take a getaway to Château de Brézé, with its underground tunnels
À première vue, le Château de Brézé ressemble à un bel édifice Renaissance comme tant d'autres… mais son vrai trésor se cache sous terre ! En effet, ce château du Val de Loire possède un réseau troglodyte impressionnant, unique en Europe. On y découvre un monde insoupçonné : caves, boulangerie, douves souterraines…
The visit has two parts: first, you tour the classic castle with its furnished salons, then you descend into the depths below.
Stroll through the streets of Old Saumur
No detailed itinerary is needed to visit the town of Saumur and its historic center. Simply wander through its streets! Cobblestone lanes, half-timbered façades, cozy cafés, and charming squares—the town has preserved a timeless charm that invites you to slow down. A stop not to be missed during your stay at our motorcycle-friendly campsite.
Start at Place Saint-Pierre, the beating heart of Old Saumur, then lose yourself in the surrounding alleys. Every corner of this Maine-et-Loire town reveals a surprise: a craftsman’s shop, an old sign, a hidden courtyard...
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