Things to see and do Ancenis

The foundations of the fortress date from the year 984. They were ordered by countess Aremberge. Charles VIII decided to shave the castle before rebuilding it in the fifteenth century. The unique remnants of the ancient medieval enclosure are the two large, massive entrance towers. One can still see part of the fortress, leftovers and a polygonal bastion. In the courtyard there is a Renaissance logis of 1535 recently restored with its high-fronted windows and its square tower. Some pavilions were added in the seventeenth century. In 1977, the castle was classified as a historic monument and became property of the City in 1986. Starting in the 1990 s, work was undertaken: demolition of the nineteenth century chapel and the school building of the 1960 s and restoration of the châtelet.

Start the garage of the Pré-Clos and follow the course for 4 km. Then take the road to the parking and turn left. After 300 m, a road leads you to a small road. Cross it and catch another little path that will lead you to the railway. Go under another bridge and continue straight after the picnic area. The trail leads to the heart of the vineyards of the hamlet of the Pierre-Meslière. For return, take the same route in reverse directions.

What better than an old rig to discover the hidden charm of the islands of the Loire? Embark on a Nooit Volmaak, a tjalk of 1912 (Dutch sailing boat). This boat is allowed to accommodate twelve people and take you to a fabulous introductory journey. You can observe the fauna and flora on the last wild river in Europe thanks to the wise advice of the captain who knows this river as his pocket. Nice discoveries in the program.