Best attractions and places to see around Tuffalun, a commune in the Maine-et-Loire department of France, offers a blend of historical architecture, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its tuffeau and falun rock formations, which also give the area its name. Visitors can explore a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites within its boundaries and close vicinity.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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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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The region around Tuffalun is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Brissac Castle, known as the "giant of the Loire" with its seven floors and 204 rooms. Another significant site is the Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory, a picturesque Benedictine priory founded in 929, with its church dating from the early 11th century. Other notable historical structures include the Château de la Grézille, the Notre-Dame de Cunault Church, and various 16th-17th century manors like Vau Manor and Félonnière Manor House.
Yes, Tuffalun offers several natural attractions. The View of the Loire from Le Thoureil provides scenic vistas of the river, where you can also see traditional wooden sailing boats. Another beautiful spot is Étang de Joreau, a tranquil lake within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional natural park, perfect for relaxing and observing local wildlife. The region is also characterized by its unique tuffeau and falun rock formations.
Tuffalun is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking on marked trails that allow you to discover local flora and fauna. For cycling, there are routes like the "Saumur – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop" or the "Étang de Joreau – Cave house loop." Runners can explore trails such as the "Jorreau Pond – Étang de Joreau loop." Many of these activities can be found in the nearby hiking, cycling, and running guides for the area.
Absolutely! Families will enjoy Étang de Joreau, which offers walking paths, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching. Brissac Castle is also a fascinating visit for all ages. Nearby, the Bioparc – Zoo de Doué-la-Fontaine is a popular eco-committed zoo, and the Roseraie Les Chemins de la Rose offers a beautiful and fragrant experience for families.
For a glimpse into ancient human occupation, you can visit the Dolmen de Bois Raymond, a megalithic site that stands as a testament to prehistoric natural features and human interaction with the landscape. The town of Le Thoureil, near the View of the Loire, also has megalithic sites including dolmens and menhirs.
The name Tuffalun itself is derived from the region's characteristic geological features: tuffeau and falun rock formations. These underground layers have shaped the local landscape and architecture, notably influencing the construction of troglodyte dwellings found in the area.
Beyond historical buildings, the region offers cultural insights. You can explore troglodyte sites, such as the Mystère des Faluns and Visite troglodyte d'un site classé monument historique in nearby Doué-en-Anjou. The Musée Aux Anciens Commerces, also in Doué-en-Anjou, provides a fascinating look into past trades and local heritage.
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. The View of the Loire from Le Thoureil is loved for its scenic beauty and boat tours. Étang de Joreau is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. The historical depth of sites like Brissac Castle and Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne Priory also receives high acclaim.
Yes, the area surrounding Tuffalun is known for its vineyards. There are numerous wine estates (Domaines viticoles) that offer opportunities for wine tourism, allowing you to discover local wines and enjoy tastings.
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the art installations at the foot of the bridge in Le Rosiers-sur-Loire during summer months. This location also has an information panel detailing its turbulent historical background, particularly interesting for WWII enthusiasts. The unique troglodyte dwellings also offer a distinctive regional experience.
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Tuffalun, offering pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural and historical sites. During these seasons, you can fully enjoy the marked hiking trails, the serene Étang de Joreau, and the various outdoor events like the Fête du Thoureil.


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