Rochemenier is a unique troglodyte village in the Loire Valley. Its rock-cut dwellings and ancient cellars fascinated us. You'll discover an exceptional underground heritage that bears witness to centuries of rural life.
In our article, you'll find all the must-do activities in Rochemenier, illustrated by our many photos. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is the village of Rochemenier worth a visit?
Yes, Rochemenier is definitely worth a visit. In our opinion, it's one of the most beautiful villages around Saumur! We were seduced by this atypical site, which offers a journey back in time. You'll delve into the fascinating history of cave dwellings and discover how families lived underground. Access to this vast open-air museum, popular with families, is not free.
>> Book your ticket for the Rochemenier troglodyte museum here <<
1. Explore ancient troglodyte farms dug into the rock
We were impressed by these 2 troglodytic farms dug into falun, a sedimentary rock formed 11 million years ago. You'll discover well-preserved dwellings, with their wine cellars, stables, bedrooms and kitchens. Each room tells the story of families who have lived underground for centuries. Don't miss the Vaslin wine press, created in 1856 by Joseph Vaslin, which bears witness to the importance of winegrowing in this region.
Practical information
- Allow 1 to 2 hours depending on your interest in the subject
- Admission: adult ticket €8.50, free for under-5s >> book here!
- Closed in December and January
- Open at least from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but closed on Mondays
- Cooler temperatures inside cellars
- Official website here
- Accompanied access for people with reduced mobility - info here
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2. Discover objects from rural life and old tools
The troglodyte dwellings are home to a wealth of antiques, giving us an authentic feel for rural life in days gone by. You'll admire wine presses, pots under the fireplace, baking trays from a bygone era and ornate china cabinets. The glass jars still contain durum wheat, soft wheat, lentils and dried beans. We were particularly intrigued by the "caramboles", special shoes that protected the feet of workers in the fields. Equestrian equipment completes this rich collection, including a period carriage and a horse-drawn carousel.
3. Take part in an immersive underground projection
The Shadow Vigil is a unique experience that we highly recommend. You'll be treated to a poetic animation in an underground room where families used to gather on winter evenings. Silhouettes are projected onto the falun walls, reflecting the families who lived underground. This projection onto the rock walls recreates the atmosphere of the evening gatherings of yesteryear, transporting you into the intimacy of these troglodytic homes. We found the experience particularly moving and immersive.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
4. Visit the ancient underground chapel
This subterranean chapel is particularly impressive for its exceptional history. In the Middle Ages, this large cavity was a former falun quarry. During the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, it was used as a chapel when the outer church was damaged. You'll discover the wooden door that forms the original entrance to this most original of chapels. We were struck by the ingenuity of the local inhabitants in transforming this underground space into a place of worship.
5. Entering a modern troglodyte dwelling
This 20th-century dwelling is a perfect illustration of the evolution of troglodyte living. Until 1960, these dwellings were traditionally occupied by workers or the elderly. We discovered how these houses were modernized in the 1970s and then became home to the museum's janitor until 1984. You'll see how these underground spaces have been adapted to contemporary needs, while retaining their authentic character.
WHERE TO STAY IN Saumur
Downtown
Enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
- Hotel Saint Pierre - a historic stay! - see prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Château La Marquise - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Anne d'Anjou - prices, pictures and availability
In the countryside around
Looking for a bit of peace and quiet, without straying too far from the city of Angers? Here's our suggestion:
- Hotel Demeure de la Vignole - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Joly Foudres - unusual in barrels - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel de l'abbaye de Fontevraud - prices, pictures and availability
6. Going back in time with falun fossils
We were fascinated by this plunge into local prehistory. 15 million years ago, the Falun Sea covered western France. When the water receded, the sand solidified and the elements fossilized. Observing fossils of mollusks, corals and sea urchins will help you understand the geological origins of this region. You'll also learn more about the inhabitants of this ancient sea, including sharks, rays and dolphins!
7. Don't miss Sainte-Madeleine-et-Saint-Jean Church
Before you leave, we recommend a visit to the Church of Sainte-Madeleine-et-Saint-Jean, just a stone's throw from the troglodyte village. This above-ground church stands in stark contrast to the underground dwellings you've just discovered. We enjoyed this final, peaceful stage, making a smooth transition between the underground world and the outside. This tour is the perfect complement to your visit to Rochemenier.
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Other attractions near Rochemenier
We discovered other remarkable sites in the Rochemenier area that perfectly complement the visit to the troglodyte village:
Other troglodyte sites
Saumur is the Loire town closest to Rochemenier. It is renowned for its unique troglodyte dwellings and structures. Here are a few other interesting sites in and around Saumur:
- Pierre et Lumière troglodytic park (Saumur)
- Mushroom Museum (Saumur)
- Domaine Filliatreau - vineyard (Turquant)
- Le Mystère des Faluns - Les Perrières (Doué-la-Fontaine) - Official website here.
- Troglodytes et sarcophages (Doué-la-Fontaine) - Official website here.
- Les Troglos de la Sablière (Doué-en-Anjou) - Official website here.
Find out more in our article on troglodytic sites in Saumur!
Loire Valley Castles
Find the 3 Loire castles closest to Rochemenier that we think are worth a visit:
Alternatively, browse our article on the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley for more inspiration!
Saumur
Take advantage of your stay at Rochemenier to visit Saumur, just a 25-minute drive away. We've dedicated an entire article to this historic town nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley! Beyond its exceptional heritage, we were seduced by its troglodytic cellars and renowned vineyards. It's a Mecca for gastronomy and wine!
How to get to Rochemenier + parking
Where is Rochemenier?
- In the Loire region
- In the Louresse-Rochemenier commune
- Between Angers and Saumur
- Saumur 20min drive
- Angers 30min drive
How to get there?
The most practical way to explore Rochemenier and the surrounding area is by car. The village is located in the countryside in the heart of the Loire, in a relatively isolated setting that makes the car particularly useful for getting around the region.
By public transport, several buses pass through the commune of Louresse-Rochemenier. View possible routes here.
Finally, cyclists and hikers can follow the Voie des Plantagenêts - Chemin de Compostelle, an itinerary that crosses the region and passes through Rochemenier.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Parking in Rochemenier
Parking at Rochemenier is no problem. A large free parking lot is available at the entrance to the village, Rue du Musée. We found this location very convenient, being right next to the troglodyte site.
Useful tips for visiting Rochemenier
How long and when is the best time?
Allow 1h to 2h to visit the entire troglodyte village and discover all its treasures.
We particularly recommend a visit in spring or summer, as the caves provide a natural coolness that is much appreciated in hot weather. The cooler temperatures make underground dwellings an ideal refuge on summer days. What's more, the site closes in December and January, so be sure to check opening times before you come.
Tour directions, map and difficulty
The direction of your visit is clearly indicated, with numbering to guide you along the underground route. The map below gives you a clear idea of how to get around the troglodyte site. We recommend you end your visit at the Church of St. Magdalene and St. John, located on the surface at the entrance to the site, which offers a striking contrast to the underground dwellings.
The route is generally accessible, but we recommend comfortable footwear for the sometimes uneven cave floors. The site also offers accompanied access for people with reduced mobility - more info on the official website here.
Visiting with children
Rochemenier offers several fun tools to captivate young visitors. A guide book available in 2 versions (French-English and German-Dutch) takes you step by step through the museum. In the tour brochure, you'll discover the Troglo'Quiz, which invites families to explore the 2 former farms and their underground world. For older children, 2 puzzle booklets are available: the Livret Enquête à Rochemenier for ages 9-14 and the Livret Escape Game for ages 14 and up. These activities turn the visit into a real family adventure.
Visit Rochemenier in winter
Winter visits to Rochemenier require special planning. The museum closes in December and January, but reopens in February and March. We therefore recommend scheduling your visit to the troglodyte village for late winter, when the underground dwellings offer a striking contrast to the cool outside. This is the time to fully appreciate the ingenuity of these natural shelters.
Restaurants
We haven't yet tested Rochemenier's restaurants, but we have identified 2 good addresses in the village:
- Restaurant Les Caves de la Genevraie
- Restaurant Les Délices de La Roche
Alternatively, check out our article on the best restaurants in Saumur, the nearest large town to Rochemenier!
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
