Just a few leagues from Angers, Parc de Pignerolle with its 80 hectares of green space is the ideal place for a nature getaway in the Loire Valley. Join us on a journey through the landscape art of France, and discover this verdant setting with its 18th-century château and formal garden.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Parc du Château de Pignerolle in Saint-Barthélémy-d'Anjou.
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 a visit to the Park of Pignerolle Castle worthwhile?
Yes, this park is well worth a visit. Located on the outskirts of the beautiful city ofAngers, the site has all the attractions of the finest gardens on the Loire. We enjoyed wandering around this vast estate, admiring its small castle and searching for the World War II German blockhouses hidden in the woods.
Like us, you'll appreciate the large landscaped walkways and wilderness areas. If you're a sporty type, the area is ideal for running or cycling excursions! The park is located on the famous Loire bike route. It's one of the best things to do in and around Angers.
What you can see
80 hectares of greenery
Stretching over dozens of hectares, the park revealed landscaped walkways, wooded paths and verdant groves.
A majestic entrance
The entrance, announced by a large wrought-iron gate, invited us to enter the majestic park!
A prestigious driveway
A driveway lined with artfully pointed bushes leads directly to the estate's superb château. We loved the precision and artistry of the landscape.
An 18th-century château
We toured the beautiful Château de Pignerolle. Modest in size, the building is full of mystery. Like us, imagine its sumptuous interior behind its large windows with closed shutters!
A curved canal
A few steps from the château, you can contemplate the canal in the park. Sit back in the shade of the trees and admire the scenery!
A French garden
The park features a magnificent formal garden. We appreciated the symmetry of the landscape and the well thought-out arrangement of plants and shrubs.
An orangery nestled in the trees
A little further on, the orangery hides in the trees. We loved its classic architecture and soft green shutters, which echo the color of the surrounding vegetation.
A garden factory
A round garden factory is surrounded by lush vegetation. Take a tour of the building and be charmed by its rounded slate roof and bull's-eye windows.
A jogging course
Numerous paths wind their way through the greenery, making the Parc de Pignerolle an ideal spot for joggers. We loved running along the tall trees!
Parc de Pignerolle in Saint-Barthélémy-d'Anjou: how to get there
Where the park is located
- In the commune of Saint-Barthélémy-d'Anjou
- 20min drive from Angers
Access by car and parking
The park has its own parking lot. Close to the entrance, it's easily accessible and can be used to park a camper van.
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.
Public transport access
There is a bus network in the area, but you'll be limited in terms of times and options for getting to Saint-Barthélémy-d'Anjou. The car is still one of the most comfortable ways to get around the Loire Valley. Looking to rent a car in Angers? Read our article on the subject here!
The park is also accessible by bike, and is one of the possible stops on the Loire à vélo circuit. Are you looking for a few days to discover the valley in a different way? Get inspired by our career paths and tips!
Visiting difficulties
The park is pleasant to visit and the tour presents no particular difficulties. Just make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes if you want to explore the 80 hectares!
DISCOVER Angers
- Things to do in Angers
- Where to sleep in Angers: best hotels
- Where to eat in Angers: best restaurants
- Rent a car in Angers
- Visit the Château d'Angers
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Angers - coming soon
- Château de Brissac
- Terra Botanica
- Best castles around Angers
- Most beautiful villages around Angers
Visit Parc de Pignerolle: useful tips
Schedules and prices
Access to the park is free. Timetables are as follows:
- Summer (April 1 to November 11): 8am to 8pm
- Winter (November 12 to March 31): 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
How long
For a leisurely stroll, allow 45min to 1h.
It's perfectly possible to spend the day in the park. Go deep into the woods and search for treasures such as the World War II blockhouses hidden in the greenery. Like us, plan to take a gourmet break and picnic on site!
Best moment
The park is very pleasant to visit in summer, when flowers and trees take on the trappings of the season. However, you're likely to come across more people at this time of year. Winter offers a more exclusive and exotic visit!
Direction of visit
There is no set direction for visiting the park, but we recommend that you start by walking down the long driveway that leads to the château, and admire the formal garden. Take a tour of the beautiful dwelling, then why not explore the orangery? Then let your instincts guide you as you explore the area.
Visiting with children
The Parc de Pignerolle is ideal for a family outing. Ideal for long races and outdoor games, it also features a children's playground. Picnic tables are also available for a convivial lunch surrounded by greenery!
Eating out
The site does not have its own restaurant. But picnics are permitted on site. We spotted tables under the trees.
Would you like to discover the cuisine of the Loire Valley? Check out our selection of the best restaurants in Angers, which is only a few minutes from the park.
Hotels
The park is just a stone's throw from the city ofAngers, which is packed with charming hotels. Read our recommendations here!
- Let yourself be tempted by the life of a château and sleep in an estate with the charm of yesteryear at the Hôtel du Château des Forges. Book your room now.
- Choose a charming hotel in the heart of Angers like the Hôtel Oisellerie, a veritable showcase of Renaissance architecture! Availability and further information here.
WHERE TO STAY IN Angers
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown, to enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
Hôtel L'Oisellerie - see photos and availability
Hotel 21, Foch - prices, pictures and availability
In the surrounding countryside, for greater peace and quiet
Hotel Château des Forges - see photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
