Durtal is a commune in the Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire region, 35 kilometers north-east of Angers, on the borders of the Sarthe.
Already inhabited during Prehistory then the Gallo-Roman era, the site overlooking the courses of Loir and Argance and which marks the limit between Maine and Anjou seduces the counts of Anjou in the eleventh century who erect a first fortress soon with a dungeon.
Military strategic point, the castle allows the development of a real city, and canals are arranged to promote the installation of mills and the rise of the tannery.
Affected by the Hundred Years War, the locality finds its splendor in the sixteenth century, the castle is embellished and becoming a place of residence appreciated by sovereigns when they stay in the Loire Valley.
The economic dynamism of Durtal (agricultural activities, wines, river trade via the Loir) persists over the centuries, and the town remains today a stronghold between Le Mans and Angers.
With nearly 3,500 inhabitants, Durtal has developed new economic activities but tourism is also one of its riches. The heritage of the small town and its environment make it a stage of choice for lovers of green and cultural tourism.
It is through the castle that overlooks the town that we will obviously begin a discovery of Durtal and its heritage.
Example of architecture first military and having evolved to become a magnificent stately residence, the castle erected in the eleventh century and remodeled and embellished until the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries in Renaissance and pre-classical styles has retained its splendor. This historic monument includes a walkway, a gallery of paintings, but also an astonishing frame, and houses one of the largest chimneys recorded in France. From the castle that "locked" access to Anjou, spectacular views await visitors. We will not forget its doors and terraces become real interior plazas where many activities are organized during the year. Open every day from Easter to All Saints' Day and all year for groups. Guided tours. Price: 4.50 and 7.50 euros. Information on +33 6 11 21 52 76.
The district of Saint-Léonard and its preserved historical aspect, lined with medieval or Renaissance buildings (mansions, chapel Sainte-Marie Madeleine of XIe century and its paintings, possible visits by contacting +33 2 41 76 07 31), various elements of "small" heritage (towers, bridges) and the old doors are also to be discovered in the heart of the city, at the foot of the walls.
We will not forget the Notre-Dame church, formerly the chapel of the castle, which dates from the mid-eleventh century. It was enlarged in the 19th century.
Away from the city center, the territory has other architectural treasures, which are evidence of its wealth of yesteryear, which has survived to this day.
Château Bosset (15th and 17th centuries), including a chapel, a dovecote and a remarkable roof (not to be visited), are listed or classified, the Château de la Motte-Grollier (17th and 19th centuries).), its beautiful facade and orangery (private property), the manor of Auvers (XIV and XV) or the manor of Serrain (XVII), which can not be visited but can be observed from the outside.
On the other hand, you can stop at Chambiers Castle in the heart of the forest of the same name. This former hunting lodge that depended on the castle of Durtal dates from the fifteenth century and was rebuilt in the eighteenth and enlarged in the nineteenth. Surrounded by parks and Italian and French gardens, the building now has a hotel vocation. Information on +33 2 41 76 07 31.
An interpretive trail with signposts connects the city's main historical and heritage sites. Information on +33 2 41 76 37 26.
The remarkable forest of Chambiers and its protected areas (with ponds and ponds), its remarkable flora and fauna, the banks of the Loir and Argance are also highlighted via discovery trails.
So many rewarding hikes to go on foot or even mountain bike for some of the circuits. Brochure and documentation at +33 2 41 76 37 26.
Many artists and craftsmen are installed in the city that can enrich a stage in the city. In addition, the Espace du Odyssée organizes numerous shows during the year (information +33 2 41 76 30 24) and quality exhibitions are regularly hosted at Espace Baudouin (information on +33 2 41 76 30 24).
For athletes, a skate park, a mogul terrain for bi-cross and tennis courts are available (reserve +33 2 41 76 12 62). In July and August, the swimming pool with open-air pools and play equipment is another possibility. Price: 1.80 and 2.80 euros. Information on +33 2 41 76 31 01.
Finally, the fishermen can inquire at +33 2 41 95 42 31 to know the adapted sites and the regulation in force.
The third weekend of March, wine fair at the Espace Odyssée.
The third weekend of July, the Loir Festival program parades and water displays, musical attractions and pyrotechnic show.
On the last Sunday of September, the International Rendez-Vous of Curiosity and Brocante attracts hundreds of exhibitors in the city and thousands of visitors attracted by this festival of collectors and antique dealers.
The third weekend of October, the Arts in the Campaign are an opportunity for artists and craftsmen to open their workshops to the public. Many exhibitions are organized in the city.
Every Tuesday morning, the market revives the fairs of yore and offers a dive into the rich soil of the region.
