Exploring Bretagne and Pays de la Loire: A Road Trip to Remember

If you're looking for a scenic road trip through the heart of France, consider embarking on a journey from Bain-de-Bretagne in Bretagne to Saint-Georges-Buttavent in Pays de la Loire. This route offers numerous opportunities to explore museums, parks, landmarks, and more.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Bretagne and Pays de la Loire regions are popular for their vibrant art scenes and incredible natural beauty? You'll experience both of these aspects as you travel from one location to the other.

Just about halfway through your trip, you'll come across the city of Vitré, located 35 km from Bain-de-Bretagne. This charming medieval city, with its towering castle and well-preserved old town, is a must-see attraction.

The total distance between Bain-de-Bretagne and Saint-Georges-Buttavent is approximately 165 km, taking about two hours to cover by car. The route takes you through several picturesque towns, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:

1. Musée Robert Tatin (Cossé-le-Vivien)

This art museum showcases the work of the famous French sculptor, Robert Tatin. Visitors can admire his unique and expressive sculptures, explore his studio, and even walk through a garden filled with his works.

Point of Interest: Visit nearby Château de Craon, a luxurious castle with grand halls, a sprawling garden, and a cozy chapel.

2. Jardin des Renaudies (Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei)

This beautiful garden, located in the stunning Alpes Mancelles region, is a true paradise for nature lovers. Filled with exotic plants and flowers, the park also has a quaint farmhouse that serves as a museum.

Point of Interest: Stop by the quaint village of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, which is celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

3. Château de Laval (Laval)

Situated in the heart of the historic city of Laval, this castle is a magnificent sight to behold. The castle boasts a rich history, having been occupied by numerous notable figures. It's also home to a fine arts museum.

Point of Interest: Don't miss the Jardin de la Perrine, a lush green space near the castle with stunning views of the river.

4. Musée Tatin (Saint-Nazaire)

This museum, dedicated to the work of Jean-Jacques Tatin, offers a fantastic collection of his intricate and imaginative sculptures. Visitors can wander through the serene gardens filled with Tatin's creations.

Point of Interest: Pop by the Escal'Atlantic, a massive museum housed within a fully restored ocean liner.

5. Abbaye de Fontevraud (Fontevraud-l'Abbaye)

One of the largest monastic complexes in Europe, this abbey dates back to the 12th century and is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. It's also the final resting place of Henry II of England and his queen.

Point of Interest: Visit nearby Château de Brézé, a fairytale-like castle with drawbridges, vast underground chambers, and a vineyard.

Overall, the route from Bain-de-Bretagne to Saint-Georges-Buttavent is a fantastic journey of around two hours. It's perfect for exploring some of France's most beautiful hidden gems, historical cities, and stunning landscapes.