THE REGION La Cornauille is situated in an area of rural charm 15 miles north of the Loire, with its designated river beaches for swimming and picnicking, between Nantes and Angers, ideal for holidays away from the hustle and bustle and yet within easy each of many lovely towns, chateaux and other places of interest. The River Loire itself is only 20 minutes drive away and is flanked by abundant vineyards where the local Muscadet and Rose wines can be tasted and purchased direct, and also the lesser known, but very good, red wines of the region. ATTRACTIONS The historic chateaux of Saumur, Chinon, Usse and Azay-le-Rideau are within two hours pleasant drive along the banks of the Loire, while the attractive Mediterranean influenced city of Angers is only 30 minutes and Nantes an hour. With their imposing chateaux and pedestrian boulevards they prove a photographer's paradise with plenty of interesting architecture. For horse lovers, riding facilities are close at hand with race tracks a little further afield. For golfing enthusiasts there are several excellent golf courses within 40 miles. Both indoor and outdoor swimming pools can be found nearby and just 45 minutes away there is a lake for swimming, windsurfing, sailing and fishing, with lakeside restaurants and cafes providing everything for a perfect day out. A one and a quarter hour's drive is all it takes to explore the Atlantic coast, where there are numerous picturesque fishing villages or on a larger scale, the casino town of La Baule with its vast sandy beach. If browsing around market stalls and antique shops sound appealing, there are street markets in many of the towns close by and 'brocantes' abound from junk to genuine. For lovers of walking, cycling, wildlife, the peace and quiet of the countryside, and for those who appreciate good food and wine, leisure activities and sightseeing, the possibilities are endless for a perfectly peaceful and relaxing holiday. BACK TO TOP OF PAGE