saumur

Saumur is a commune in western France, located in the Maine-et-Loire department within the Pays de la Loire region. It lies along the Loire River and serves as the sub-prefecture of its arrondissement. The historic town sits on chalk cliffs overlooking the river and is known for its preserved medieval and Renaissance heritage.

The Château de Saumur dominates the skyline and dates to the medieval period, with later additions reflecting its military and royal history. Today the fortress houses a museum and hosts exhibitions. The Cadre Noir, France’s national riding school, is based in Saumur and performs demonstrations from the castle’s stables, adding to the city’s equestrian culture.

Saumur has a long-standing wine tradition within the Loire Valley. The surrounding area produces Saumur AOC wines, including whites based on Chenin Blanc and Crémant de Loire sparkling wines, as well as the nearby Saumur-Champigny red wines. The region features extensive troglodyte cellars along the Loire, used for wine aging, mushroom production, and tourism.

In addition to wine, Saumur attracts visitors with its troglodyte architecture, historic houses, and cultural venues. The Loire Valley, of which Saumur is a part, is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its landscapes, châteaux, and viticulture.

Transport and economy: Saumur is connected by rail and road to other major centers and lies on cycle routes along the Loire. The local economy combines tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing, with the castle, riding school, and wine industry as primary focal points.