Angers

Angers, the county town of Maine-et-Loire on the doorstep of the Loire Valley, is best known for its imposing medieval castle with seventeen schist and tufa towers, home to the Apocalypse Tapestry, the largest surviving medieval wall hanging in the world. An audio guide helps bring its scenes and historical significance to life. The visit continues pleasantly along the River Maine, where the town's quays and historic centre, dotted with timber-framed houses, unfold around Saint-Maurice Cathedral. Angers is also renowned for Cointreau, the local liqueur, and the Carré Cointreau shop offers an insight into its production and range of products. For a sweet or savoury treat, the Crêperie du Château is highly popular and booking ahead is advisable, while the Soufflerie d'Angers offers a distinctive experience built around sweet and savoury soufflés. A lively university town with a mild climate, Angers is well suited to unhurried strolls through medieval streets, gardens and riverside paths. It also makes an excellent base for exploring the nearby Loire Valley châteaux.