Best attractions and places to see around Coutures, located in Pays de la Loire, offer a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Loire River, providing scenic views and opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient priories, impressive castles, and tranquil natural areas like lakes and forests. This area provides diverse outdoor attractions near Coutures for various interests.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
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Gennes-Saumur-Les Rodiers sur Loire 40 km. Nice to do
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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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The bridge at Le Rosiers-sur-Loire has a turbulent historical background. For WWII enthusiasts, there is an information panel on the bank. Brief historical facts: At the end of May, beginning of June, German troops reach Les Rosiers. On 19 June, the battle for the bridge begins. A fierce battle between the two armies follows for two days. The bridges of Rosiers and Gennes are blown up. On 20 June, French resistance breaks. Fifteen of the 325 French cadets were killed and buried in the shadow of the Saint-Eusèbe church in Gennes. You can read the full story on the bank.
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The bridge at Le Rosiers-sur-Loire has a turbulent historical background. For WWII enthusiasts, there is an information panel on the bank. Brief historical facts: At the end of May, beginning of June, German troops reach Les Rosiers. On 19 June, the battle for the bridge begins. A fierce battle between the two armies follows for two days. The bridges of Rosiers and Gennes are blown up. On 20 June, French resistance breaks. Fifteen of the 325 French cadets were killed and buried in the shadow of the Saint-Eusèbe church in Gennes. You can read the full story on the bank.
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For natural beauty, consider visiting View of the Loire from Le Thoureil, which offers expansive river views and is known for its traditional wooden boats and nearby megalithic sites. Another excellent choice is Étang de Joreau, a tranquil lake within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional natural park, perfect for walks, picnics, and bird watching.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Don't miss Brissac Castle, often called the 'giant of the Loire' due to its seven floors and 204 rooms. You can also visit Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory, an impressive Benedictine priory with an 11th-century church, or the historic Abbey of Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil.
Several attractions are great for families. Étang de Joreau offers easy walks through woods, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching. Brissac Castle is also considered family-friendly, providing an engaging historical experience. The Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory is another option, often hosting events suitable for all ages.
The area around Coutures is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and running. For example, there are easy hiking trails like the 'Bourg Dion Dolmen – Dolmen d'Étiau loop' from Coutures, or more challenging running routes such as the 'Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne – Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory loop'. Explore more options on the Hiking around Coutures, Road Cycling Routes around Coutures, and Running Trails around Coutures guide pages.
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails. For instance, the 'Small mtb circuit loop from Gohier' is an easy 6.4 km route, and the 'Bourg Dion Dolmen – Dolmen d'Étiau loop from Coutures' is an easy 4.1 km path. These trails are generally well-suited for a relaxed walk and can be found in the Hiking around Coutures guide.
The Pays de la Loire region generally enjoys pleasant weather from spring to early autumn (April to October), making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions. During these months, temperatures are mild, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures for activities like hiking and cycling without the peak crowds.
Yes, some attractions offer amenities. For example, the village of Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, home to the Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory, has a grocery store and a gîte, which may offer food options. While specific cafes directly on walking trails are not detailed, many villages in the region will have local establishments.
While popular attractions are well-loved, you might find quieter moments at places like the Abbey of Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil, which, despite its historical significance, might offer a more serene experience than larger castles. The various megalithic sites near Le Thoureil also provide a unique, often less-trafficked glimpse into ancient history.
Many natural outdoor areas, such as the woods around Étang de Joreau and the walking trails along the Loire, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. For specific historical sites like castles or priories, it's best to check their individual visitor policies regarding pets before your visit.
Visitors frequently praise the scenic views, especially from spots like View of the Loire from Le Thoureil. The tranquility and natural beauty of places like Étang de Joreau are also highly appreciated for relaxation and walks. The historical depth and impressive architecture of sites like Brissac Castle also receive strong positive feedback, with many noting the rich history and beautiful settings.
Yes, Le Thoureil is known for the Fête du Thoureil, a festival of Loire barges. This Angevin tradition takes place every spring on the banks of the Loire, featuring traditional boats and Loire festivities. It's considered a significant event for Loire barges between Nantes and Tours.


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