Saint-Martin-de-la-Place is a small rural commune located in the heart of the historic region of Anjou, in the Maine-et-Loire department. This tranquil location is near the majestic Loire River and stands out for its tuffeau architecture – the characteristic white limestone rock of the region, used for the famous castles. It is an ideal place for lovers of tranquility, wine, and for those wishing to explore the authentic, less touristy side of the Loire Valley, with charm accommodations in ancient residences.

What Our Travel Designers Recommend to See: Loire, Architecture, and Vineyards

• Loire Riverbanks and Traditional Boats (Bateaux Traditionnels) – Enjoy a walk along the UNESCO World Heritage Loire River, and admire the toues cabanées, the traditional flat-bottomed boats. We recommend a picnic with a river view.
• Tuffeau Architecture – Observe the houses and residences built with the characteristic white stone, which gives a luminous and historic atmosphere to the village.
• Saumur Cellars and Vineyards – The region is renowned for its wines. A visit to an underground cellar (often dug into the tuffeau) for a tasting of sparkling wines (Crémant de Loire) or Saumur-Champigny reds is an essential experience.
• Fontevraud Abbey (nearby) – A historic site of great importance, where Henry II of England, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Richard the Lionheart are buried.

Unique Experiences and Activities

• Bicycle Tour of the Vineyards – Rent a bicycle and ride the tranquil paths through the vineyards and fields, with the possibility of stopping for impromptu wine tastings.
• Visit to Saumur – The nearby city of Saumur is famous for its imposing castle and the prestigious Cavalry School (Cadre Noir), which offers world-renowned equestrian shows.
• Local Crafts and Markets – Buy local products in one of the area's markets, such as the Champignon de Paris mushroom grown in the tuffeau caves.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Fouaces – Breads baked in a wood oven, often stuffed with Rillettes or goat cheese. A rustic and authentic culinary experience.
• Pike with Beurre Blanc Sauce (Brochet au Beurre Blanc) – Freshwater pike cooked with the famous white butter sauce, a Loire specialty.
• Saumur-Champigny Wines and Crémant de Loire – The light and fruity reds of Saumur-Champigny and the elegant sparkling wines are the basis of local wine production.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Saint-Martin-de-la-Place
• Official Anjou Tourism Website

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations (Historic Charm)

• Château de la Bourdaisière (Montlouis-sur-Loire, distant but luxurious) – Although a bit far, it is a historic luxury castle with an exceptional atmosphere.
• Demeure de la Vignole (Fontevraud, nearby) – A charm residence partly dug into the tuffeau, offering a unique stay experience near Fontevraud Abbey.
• Château Le Prieuré (Chênehutte-Trèves-Cunault, nearby) – A luxurious castle-hotel with a dominant position over the Loire.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants (Fine Dining and Tradition)

• Le Gambetta (Saumur) – Michelin-starred restaurant in Saumur, offering refined cuisine that enhances the products of the Loire.
• L'Abbaye de Fontevraud Restaurant – Modern gourmet cuisine in an exceptional historic setting, often praised by critics.
• Auberge Saint-Pierre (Mont-St-Michel, distant but iconic) – Although far away, the famous Omelette de la Mère Poulard is an icon of French tourism.