Wanderlust – Exploring Maine-et-Loire, France

Wanderlust – Exploring Maine-et-Loire, France

I hope your week is going well and I know it is about to get better as it’s time for some Wanderlust and today we are off to explore the Maine-et-Loire region of France with Christina Sarah Photography. In case you’ve missed any of the wanderlust series you can catch up here.

Exploring Maine-et-Loire, France

Maine-et-Loire is a department in west-central France, in the Pays de la Loire region which is world renowned for its abundance of historic chateaux, all offering its visitors a unique experience.

As I was visiting the Vendee at the end of July I had the pleasure of visiting one of my favourite restaurants in France, Le Stofflet at Chateau Colbert, Maulévrier. Its wonderful location enables you to visit Anjou to discover the Loire châteaux, the Vendée coast or to tour the vineyards of Maine-et-Loire.

Le Stofflet is a gastronomic dining experience in the heart of the Loire. The gourmet restaurant, conveniently situated in the Maine-et-Loire near the Loire, Saumur and Angers châteaux, offers delectable menu selections accessible to one and all…Château Colbert, Maulévrier

The sophisticated fine-dining restaurant has period features throughout adding beautifully to your experience.Beautiful Chateau near Vendee France

“Stunning décor and fare to match… The gourmet restaurant Le Stoffiet, not far from Cholet, is a veritable theatre of flavours. Young Chef Sébastien Cramard stages a show of his creations in a superb setting opposite wide-view windows overlooking Maulévrier Oriental Park (the largest Japanese garden in Europe). In a showcase of gold and Grand Siècle crystal chandeliers, this native son sets the mood for lunch and dinner! His contemporary cuisine with a personal touch, inspired by the products of his homeland and the seasons, boasts the best of local goodness.”

The lunch menu was a very reasonable €34 and included two selections for each course. Of course we began our dining experience with an amuse bouche…places to eat in Maine-et-Loire

Then we commenced with a breathtaking starter of… Cubes de courgette basilic, biscuit parmesan, Saumon fumé par nos soins, followed by a faux filet main and of course a delicious cheese course.michelin star food in Maine-et-Loire

Brie de Meaux, Crémé de chévre aux noisettes et sa petite salade potagére…Fine Dining Chateau Experience

The deserts tasted just as amazing as they looked. We enjoyed… Blanc-manger à la noix de coco. Marinade de fruits rouges, sorbet fraise…Day trip ideas in Maine-et-Loire

To end your meal you’re offered coffee on the terrace with stunning views of the Oriental gardens situated at the rear of this historic establishment and who could refuse on such a wonderful summers day!Boutique hotel in Maine-et-Loire

This was then followed by a stroll around the manicured gardens and even a trip to the extravagant kitchen gardens (potager), which are not to be missed! During our walk we could see sneak peaks of the amazing Oriental Park. Maine-et-Loire, France

Maulévrier France

Top Tip: Enjoy a magical evening walk through the nearby Oriental park which takes on a completely new dimension coupled with the gardens discrete evening lighting and paper lanterns which are given to each guest on entry.French gardenWanderlust adventure en France

As I’m sure you’ll agree, one Chateau is never enough so why not head to Saumur to wonder around the medival streets, taste some of France’s fine wine and visit the town’s imposing chateau which over looks the Loire river.

things to do in Maine-et-Loire

kitchen chateau garden France

things to see in west France

French Chateau Experience

Just 30 minutes away from Chateau Colbert you will discover the world famous Puy Du Fou, France’s fourth most popular attraction after Disneyland Paris. It’s utterly unique and a real treat for the whole family. With some 1.5 million visitors per year.

During the summer months Puy Du Fou is home to the worlds largest evening show! You’ll never forget this breathtaking experience which takes place on a 23 hectare stage under the stars.

I hope you enjoyed todays wanderlusting!

Places to Visit

Oriental Park Maulevrier (the largest Japanese garden in Europe)
Chateau Colbert Maulevrier: Boutique Hotel and Fine Dining Restaurant
Château de Saumur
Terra Botanica: A Plant-Themed Amusement Park
Puy du Fou is a historical theme park in Les Epesses

 Snapshot of Exploring Maine-et-Loire, France

Snapshot Wanderlust – Exploring Maine-et-Loire, France

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