Guide to Western Loire

Leading to Golden Western Loire

Pays de la Loire is one of the true highlights of France. With rolling countryside, beautiful rivers and stunning chateaux, there is much more to this region than just its famous wine – though of course, there’s plenty of that to enjoy too.

Made up of five departments, stretching from the southern edge of Normandy down to the border of the former Poitou-Charentes on the western coast, it is one of the most exciting landscapes in the country. From miles of open countryside to lively cities with events throughout the year, Pays de la Loire is among the best places to buy a holiday home in France.

Its climate is warm through the summer – the Pays de la Loire area is often referred to as the Garden of France thanks to its abundance of grapes, other fruits and vegetables grown in ideal conditions. However, there is still frost through the winter and rainfall in the autumn, ensuring the countryside stays lush and green.

Pays de la Loire is rightly known for its wines. Driving through the Sarthe, Mayenne and Maine-et-Loire departments, you’ll soon notice how much of the farmland is filled with vines. The region has many leading wine estates, and there’s no shortage of tasting opportunities. It is also renowned for its striking castles, often open to explore along with their beautiful grounds, including formal gardens.

Le Mans, Angers and Cholet are just some of the cities in the heart of Pays de la Loire, while Saint-Nazaire and La Roche-sur-Yon are all bustling destinations closer to the coast, where the Loire-Atlantique and Vendée departments have long stretches of golden sandy beaches.

The most famous coastal town is Les Sables d’Olonne, but travel north or south from here and you’ll find miles of inviting beaches that are often all but deserted. La Tranche-sur-Mer, to the south of the region, is a particular highlight and, with its Atlantic coast, a great place to take to the seas for water sports and sailing. We very much enjoyed celebrating there at the end of our studies, and have many memories of this amazing friendly area. The coastal resort of Pornic, known for its beautiful beaches and charming harbor, is another gem along the French coast, offering a relaxing getaway.

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