Oree d anjou

Orée d'Anjou is a new merged commune in the Maine-et-Loire department, formed from several villages including Champtoceaux, Liré, Landemont, Drain and La Varenne, at the heart of the Anjou vineyards. The area runs alongside the Loire River and offers, from the Champtoceaux promontory on the Corniche Angevine, a well-known panoramic view over the river valley. Liré is recognised as the birthplace of the poet Joachim du Bellay, to whom a museum is dedicated. The commune sits within a typically rural Anjou landscape, characterised by vine-covered hillsides producing appellation wines, along with walking trails and a stretch of the Loire à Vélo cycle route passing through the area. The built heritage includes former winegrowers' houses and remnants of the old Champtoceaux stronghold. The overall atmosphere is quiet and countryside-like, well suited to nature-based stays close to the Loire, between Nantes and Angers. The mild oceanic climate allows outdoor activities for much of the year, including cycling, walking and visits to local wine cellars.