Western Loire

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	LOIRE-ATLANTIQUE - Département 44 Welcome to Loire-Atlantique, where land and sea meet to create a perfect balance. From the ocean to the majestic Loire river, water is everywhere - rivers, ponds and lakes abound. Bountiful untouched land, forests and countryside offer everchanging scenery. Its architectural heritage is evidence of an outstanding past. The fruits of the vine, such as Muscadet, accompanied by farming and sea produce are the delight of even the most demanding gourmets. From ocean beaches to wooded paths, your hosts extend their hospitality for a relaxing or adventurous holiday in a haven of fine fare and wine. TOWNS: Nantes, Châteaubriant, St-Nazaire, Ancenis.
	VENDÉE - Département 85 Come and explore the multi-faceted Vendée. Our département has over 200 km of coastline, with fishing and yachting ports, seaside resorts and invigorating sea air. The hilly copse land is steeped in history, which you can get to know while out strolling along the many lanes and hollow paths. The Marais Poitevin marshlands are known as the "Green Venice" where earth and water merge and small boats slip gently through a world of silence. Last but not least, don't forget to visit the islands of Noirmoutier and Yeu before you leave. TOWNS: La Roche-sur-Yon, Les Sables-d'Olonne, Fontenay-le-Comte.
	MAINE-ET-LOIRE - Département 49 The only way to discover Anjou, which covers the Maine-et-Loire département, is through the gentle art of living specific to the banks of the Loire. Explore the wealth of châteaux, abbeys, manor houses and cave-dwellings which are still lived in. The luscious vineyards are ideal for getting acquainted with the local lively, honey or wild fruit-flavoured wines. Anjou is also home to an opulent cultural heritage, including Saumur's Cadre Noir Riding School, Fontevraud Royal Abbey and a host of museums and gardens. TOWNS: Angers, Segré, Saumur, Cholet. CHATEAUX OF THE LOIRE.
	MAYENNE - Département 53 The Mayenne, with a river of the same name flowing through it, is quiet countryside on the Normandy and Anjou borders. The horse reigns supreme here, and the forests and meadowland will delight strollers. A great many small châteaux and manor houses dot the landscape. The Mayenne exudes its charms under the ramparts of imposing fortresses, in the shade of a Renaissance window or in the hollow of bush-filled countryside. Its heritage is the result of a rich past which still finds its expression today in all areas. The Mayenne reveals its treasures and astounding beauty through exploration. TOWNS: Laval, Mayenne, Château-Gontier.
	SARTHE - Département 72 There are great times and simple times. Great times, when the heart responds to the colours and emotions of the "Twenty-four Hours of Le Mans", or when the senses awake to the lovliest gothic apse in the world, in Le Mans' cathedral of St-Julien. And also the quieter times of simple pleasure. Less than an hour from Paris by TGV express train, and easily reachable too from the Channel ports of Normandy, you can explore past centuries in Le Mans' historic quarter, or visit the oak forest of Bercé, largest in Europe. You can take a river cruise to the mighty Abbey of Solesmes, a world famous musical centre. In the Alps of Le Mans, sports lovers can enjoy horse-riding, hiking or canoeing and kayak. Indeed it is time to discover the delights of the Sarthe region. TOWNS: Le Mans, Mamers, La Flèche.