Weekend in Angers: discovering world heritage treasures

Welcome to Angers, a destination where history, heritage and exceptional natural beauty blend harmoniously. Come and enjoy the mild September days in Angers for a weekend.

Discover its Unesco World Heritage treasures.

What a program!

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

©Tapestry Apocalypse Angers Lamoureux|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

Discovering a unique work of art

Start your weekend with a visit to the Château d’Angers, a true medieval gem. Discover the chapel, the royal dwelling, the châtelet, wander through the regular and hanging gardens, stroll among the roses and lilies and don’t forget to take a look at the vineyard and vegetable garden.
Stroll along the ramparts for a unique panorama of Angers and the château gardens. We’ve saved the best for last! The Château des Ducs d’Anjou is home to a world heritage treasure: the famous Apocalypse Tapestry.
At 103 meters in length, this monumental work is the world’s largest surviving collection of medieval tapestries. Dating from the 14th century, it was commissioned by Duke Louis 1ᵉʳ d’Anjou and illustrates the Apocalypse according to Saint John. But rest assured, there’s no end of the world on the horizon here, just an explosion of color and incredible detail that will leave you speechless.

Since May 2023, the Apocalypse Tapestry has beenlisted on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, alongside the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen and General de Gaulle’s Appeal of June 18, 1940.
Its inclusion in this register confers universal importance, attesting to the major role played by this masterpiece in the history of artistic creation, and demonstrating the need for its preservation over the centuries.

It’s a real treasure, and a must-see during your stay in Anjou.

©Chateau Angers Lamoureux entrance|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

©Castle Walls|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

©Botanical Garden Chateau Angers Lamoureux|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

©Garden Chateau Angers Lamoureux|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

Continue your discovery of Angers and its heritage with a visit to the Musée Jean Lurçat et de la Tapisserie Contemporaine. The former Saint-Jean hospital has now become one of Angers’ cultural hotspots. You can admire the architecture of the site, in particular its covered gallery, and contemplate Jean Lurçat’s famous Chant du Monde tapestry, created in 1957. You’ll see that it bears some similarities to the Apocalypse Hanging. Indeed, it was conceived as a modern version of the famous medieval hanging. End your first day with a stroll through the charming Doutre district, pausing at the Cale de la Savatte. Enjoy the scenery and the view of the Château d’Angers!

Guided tours are available to discover the secrets of the Apocalypse Hanging. Various educational tools are available to help young and old alike discover the work and its history.

A bucolic stroll in the Loire Valley

On this second day, discover the landscapes of the Loire Valley and its majestic river: the Loire. The Val de Loire has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 . Recognized as an exceptional cultural landscape,the area stretches from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalonnes-sur-Loire. France’s longest river has been a major communications axis for centuries, shaping both rural and urban landscapes, and is home to numerous plant and animal species. The inclusion of the Val de Loire in the World Heritage List recognizes its universal value and the importance of preserving this exceptional landscape.

If you’re an early riser, be sure to take in the sunrise at La Bohalle (Loire-Authion), with its 360° view of the Loire and its wild flora and fauna. You won’t be disappointed!

Then opt for a cruise on the Loire with Loire Odyssée ( available until October 19). Embark on a relaxing stroll along the river’s waters, admiring the lush green banks and letting yourself be lulled by the lapping of the water.

In September, the golden lights offer breathtaking scenery. Cruises of various lengths are available. For a unique and authentic experience, you can also enjoy a trip aboard a traditional Loire boat with Batellerie de la Loire. The team will passionately explain the history of France’s longest river and the need to preserve this unique heritage.

The Loire Valley is also famous for its vineyards, especially Savennières. Now let’s set off to discover the vineyard estates, renowned for their exceptional white wines. Domaine du Closel,Domaine FL, Domaine aux Moines…
Join a tasting and a guided tour to learn more about local grape varieties and winemaking techniques. The winemakers will give you a warm welcome and share their passion for their craft.

©Jardin Mediterraneen Sainte Gemmes Mouraud|D. Mouraud - Destination Angers

©Balade Loire Ponts De Ce Lamoureux|Alexandre Lamoureux - Destination Angers

©Jardin Mediterraneen Ste Gemmes Mouraud|D. Mouraud - Destination Angers

Do you prefer hiking along the banks of the Loire? Don’t worry, we’ve got just the thing for you too!The Loire and Horticultural Plain trail, a 20 km stroll, will offer you calm and serenity along the way. Stroll along the banks of the Loire and enjoy the lush green countryside. For plant lovers, the Jardin Méditerranéen is a must-see stop on your walk. For art and culture lovers, the Rive d’Arts creative center is also on your route.

Alternatively, if you’d like to take a shorter stroll and simply enjoy one of the finest panoramic views of the Loire, its islands and sandbanks, we suggest the 6 km Beautés de Loire trail. In the heart of the Loire Anjou Touraine Regional Nature Park, discover the charming village of La Bohalle.

In low season, check the opening times and days of the various sites you wish to visit.