The village of Candes-Saint-Martin is nestled along the banks of the Loire, near the town of Saumur. This charming little village is renowned for its architectural and historical heritage, immediately captivating visitors with its timeless charm. Slightly elevated on the Loire’s foothills, it offers a beautiful panorama of the river.
Candes-Saint-Martin sits at the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers, which made it an important river port in the 18th and 19th centuries. This strategic position contributed to the village’s growth and its rich architectural heritage.
Recognized as one of the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” – one of France’s most beautiful villages – this designation reflects the quality of its heritage and the beauty of its surroundings. The white tuffeau houses typical of the region, along with slate roofs, create a striking contrast that enhances the village’s charm.
One of Candes-Saint-Martin’s gems is its Collegiate Church of Saint-Martin, built at the end of the 12th century. This fortified church features an impressive portal framed by two crenelated towers. Inside, visitors can explore the Chapel of Saint-Martin, believed to be the site where Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours, died in 397.
The village is surrounded by three renowned vineyards: Bourgueil, Saumur-Champigny, and Chinon. These appellations primarily produce red wines based on Cabernet Franc, giving visitors the opportunity to taste high-quality wines.
For history and heritage enthusiasts, Candes-Saint-Martin offers many other attractions. Nearby, you can visit the village of Montsoreau and its castle or discover the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, one of France’s most significant monastic complexes. Founded in the 12th century, it is famous for its architecture, gardens, and rich history, serving as the burial site for many French kings and queens, including Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities for lovely walks along the Loire. Traditional boats offer cruises on the river, allowing visitors to admire the village from the water and discover the landscapes classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Finally, the belvedere at the top of the village provides an exceptional viewpoint over the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers, complete with an orientation table to help visitors appreciate the landscape stretching from Touraine to Anjou.
Discover the wine treasures of the Loire Valley! Just a short distance from Candes-Saint-Martin, a multitude of passionate winemakers are ready to welcome you. Domaine Filliatreau and Domaine des Frémonclairs are among the many gems to explore. From powerful reds to elegant whites, you’re sure to find something you’ll love.
