Things to see and do Baugé-En-Anjou

Of the great forests of Anjou, only a few are left, of which the forest of Chandelais is the most important. In the 15th century, King René used it for hunting, close to his residence in Baugé. Nowadays, the most remarkable trees of Anjou can be found there, oak and beech trees, as well as about fifty species of mushrooms. This 2,000-hectare forest offers numerous hiking, biking and horseback riding trails: 80 kilometers in total!

This historic site is made up of two distinct parts only a few dozen metres apart: a castle and a hospital with a magnificent apothecary. The first was, in the 15th century, the hunting lodge of King René who had it built on the ruins of the 11th century. Enter the place of pleasure of the Good King and meet the various characters who have marked the history of this domain and the region. A projection, followed by a show, presents chivalry and courtly love as practiced by the members of the Anjou dynasty. King René's bedroom, the star room of the visit, has been reconstructed from period documents.

As for the Hôtel-Dieu, it refers to the exceptional 17th century hospital complex, which was in operation until 2001. Note that it is only accessible with a guide. Through the exhibition in the large sick room, you will learn more about medicine at the time of Louis XIV. The visit ends with a visit to the admirable apothecary: 650 jars, flasks and other containers welcome you to this pharmacy dating from 1675, still filled with the products of yesteryear and a true testimony to a crucial period in the development of medicine. Don't miss the baroque chapel with its double choir, as well as part of the conventual buildings. To make the most of these places, theatrical tours rich in twists and turns are regularly scheduled.