Things to do in Pays de la Loire
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Region of France

Pays de la Loire

 Prefecture: Nantes

About the Pays de la Loire region

Open onto the Atlantic Ocean, Pays de la Loire combines a lively coastline, peaceful river valleys and Anjou gentleness. From the chic seaside resort of La Baule, with one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, to the salt marshes of Guérande, by way of the island of Noirmoutier and Les Sables-d'Olonne, the region breathes the open sea air and offers a wide choice of water activities.

Inland, the Loire Valley unfolds its Anjou châteaux, such as that of Angers and its Apocalypse Tapestry, and its renowned vineyard around Saumur and Muscadet. The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed the Green Venice, is discovered by boat along its shaded canals, in a peaceful and unspoilt atmosphere.

Nantes, the former city of the Dukes of Brittany, has reinvented itself as a creative and cultural metropolis. The famous Machines de l'île, with their impressive Grand Éléphant, the artistic Voyage à Nantes trail and the former shipyards make it a dynamic and surprising destination. Further south, the Puy du Fou, a theme park acclaimed worldwide, offers grandiose shows.

Rich in maritime heritage, towns of art and a tasty terroir — Guérande salt, Loire wines, fish and seafood — the region offers a varied palette. Between ocean, culture, nature and festivities, Pays de la Loire promises varied and convivial stays in every season.

To make the most of Pays de la Loire, alternate the Atlantic coast, the Loire Valley and the Nantes metropolis. Summer is ideal for the beaches, while spring and autumn suit the discovery of the towns and châteaux. Swimming at La Baule, a boat trip in the Marais Poitevin, visiting the Machines de l'île in Nantes, shows at the Puy du Fou and tasting Muscadet punctuate the stay. What to do in Pays de la Loire with family? Between ocean, culture, nature and festivities, the region delights young and old. Ideal for a weekend or holidays, it offers a varied range of activities in a convivial and welcoming atmosphere.
Departments Loire-Atlantique (44)Maine-et-Loire (49)Mayenne (53)Sarthe (72)Vendée (85)
Population
3 905 906
Area
32 359 km²
Density
121 hab/km²
Departments
5
Towns
1 226
Prefecture
Nantes
Community score
Not rated yet

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Photos: travellers & Wikimedia Commons.

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