Fun Things to Do in Saumur | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Saumur Travel Guide
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Welcome to Saumur, a charming town located in the Loire Valley of France. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned wines, Saumur offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll be captivated by the medieval charm of the town, with its well-preserved castle and scenic views of the Loire River. Saumur is also famous for its equestrian heritage, hosting the prestigious Cadre Noir equestrian school, where you can witness breathtaking horse shows and learn about the art of dressage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Saumur has something to offer for everyone.
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Things To Do In Saumur
Saumur is a charming town located in the Loire Valley region of France. It offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Saumur:
1. Visit the Chateau de Saumur: This impressive castle overlooks the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Explore the castle's interior, which houses a museum dedicated to the history of the region.
2. Explore the Musee des Blindes: Saumur is known for its connection to the French cavalry, and this museum showcases a vast collection of armored vehicles. Discover the history of tanks and military vehicles through interactive exhibits and displays.
3. Take a stroll along the Loire River: Saumur is situated on the banks of the Loire River, providing a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk. Enjoy the scenic views, spot wildlife, and relax in one of the riverside parks.
4. Discover the Cadre Noir: Saumur is famous for its equestrian tradition, and the Cadre Noir is a renowned horse-riding school. Watch a dressage performance or take a guided tour to learn about the art of classical equitation.
5. Visit the Musee de la Cavalerie: This museum is dedicated to the history of cavalry and showcases a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and artwork. Learn about the role of cavalry in warfare throughout history.
6. Explore the Caves Louis de Grenelle: Saumur is known for its sparkling wine production, and this underground cellar offers guided tours where you can learn about the traditional method of making sparkling wine. Enjoy a tasting of their renowned Cremant de Loire.
7. Take a bike ride through the vineyards: Saumur is surrounded by vineyards, and cycling through the scenic countryside is a popular activity. Rent a bike and explore the vineyards, stopping at local wineries for tastings along the way.
8. Attend the Saumur Wine Fair: If you visit Saumur in September, don't miss the annual wine fair. This event showcases the region's best wines, allowing visitors to sample a wide variety of local vintages.
9. Explore the historic center: Saumur's old town is filled with narrow streets, charming shops, and historic buildings. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center, admire the architecture, and stop at a cafe for a coffee or a glass of local wine.
10. Take a boat trip on the Loire River: Experience Saumur from a different perspective by taking a boat trip along the Loire River. Enjoy the tranquil waters, spot wildlife, and learn about the region's history from a knowledgeable guide.
Overall, Saumur offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for travelers. Whether you're interested in castles, wine, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming town.
Tours And Activities In Saumur
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Best Time To Visit Saumur
The best time to visit Saumur is during the spring and summer months. This is when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, springtime is a great time to visit Saumur because it is when the famous Saumur Wine Fair takes place, offering visitors the opportunity to taste a variety of local wines. The summer months are also a popular time to visit Saumur because of the numerous festivals and events that take place, such as the Saumur Music Festival and the Saumur International Military Horse Show. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so the city may be more crowded and prices may be higher.
Flight Calendar For Saumur
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Best Areas To Stay In Saumur
Saumur is a charming town located in the Loire Valley region of France. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. When it comes to finding accommodation in Saumur, there are several areas that stand out for their unique offerings.
The Historic Center is the heart of Saumur and is a great choice for those who want to be immersed in the town's history. Here, you will find beautiful medieval buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and a vibrant atmosphere. The area is home to many boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts, offering a cozy and authentic experience.
The Loire Riverfront is another popular area for accommodation in Saumur. This area offers stunning views of the river and is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling or walking along the riverbanks. There are several hotels and guesthouses located along the riverfront, providing easy access to the town center and its attractions.
The Vineyards surrounding Saumur are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Staying in this area allows you to be close to the vineyards and wineries, where you can indulge in wine tastings and tours. There are a few charming guesthouses and countryside hotels nestled among the vineyards, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat.
The Outskirts of Saumur are ideal for those seeking a more tranquil and rural setting. Here, you can find charming country cottages and guesthouses surrounded by nature. This area is perfect for those who want to explore the countryside, go hiking or cycling, and enjoy the peacefulness of the Loire Valley.
Overall, Saumur offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer to stay in the historic center, along the riverfront, amidst the vineyards, or in the outskirts, you are sure to find a place that meets your needs and allows you to fully experience the beauty and charm of Saumur.
Hotels Map Of Saumur
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Transportation To Saumur
There are several transportation options to Saumur:
1. By train: Saumur has a train station that is well-connected to major cities in France. You can take a train from Paris, Nantes, or Angers to reach Saumur.
2. By car: Saumur is easily accessible by car. It is located on the A85 motorway, which connects it to major cities like Tours and Angers. The journey by car from Paris to Saumur takes around 3 hours.
3. By bus: There are bus services that operate to Saumur from nearby cities. You can check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option.
4. By plane: The nearest airport to Saumur is the Tours Val de Loire Airport, which is about 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Saumur.
5. By bike: Saumur is located in the Loire Valley, which is a popular cycling destination. You can rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride to Saumur along the Loire River.
Once you arrive in Saumur, there are local transportation options available such as buses and taxis to help you get around the city.
Nearby Destination From Saumur
1. Angers: A historic city known for its medieval castle and vibrant cultural scene.
2. Chinon: A charming town famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its association with Joan of Arc.
3. Tours: A bustling city with a rich history, featuring stunning cathedrals, museums, and a lively old town.
4. Blois: A picturesque town renowned for its magnificent Renaissance chateau and beautiful riverside setting.
5. Cholet: A vibrant industrial town offering a mix of modern attractions and historical sites, including the Textile Museum.
6. Nantes: A dynamic city known for its innovative architecture, vibrant arts scene, and the historic Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne.
7. Le Mans: A historic city famous for its annual 24-hour car race and its well-preserved medieval old town.
8. Angouleme: A charming town renowned for its comic book culture, featuring numerous murals and an annual international comic festival.
9. Poitiers: A city with a rich architectural heritage, including the stunning Notre-Dame-la-Grande church and the Palais des Ducs.
10. La Rochelle: A coastal city known for its picturesque harbor, historic old town, and beautiful sandy beaches.