Angrie: Heathland, Mills and Heritage

Angrie combines a landscape shaped by hedgerows, schist and heathland with a rich historical heritage. Two distinct themes therefore stand out when choosing a destination: the natural environment of the Landes d’Angrie and the architectural history of churches, mills, chapels and the château. If you would like to include some activity, you can also consider the Les Grés et Terres d’Angrie circular trail; it starts and ends in Angrie.

Hedgerow landscape and nature of the Landes d’Angrie

On the hedgerow-covered plateau of the Landes d’Angrie, rocky ridges composed mainly of schist encourage the development of heathland. These are joined by adjacent meadows and ponds, which together form a large area of significant natural interest. The interplay of rock and different habitats shapes the natural character of the landscape. The Landes d’Angrie are also home to rare and endangered populations of the asp viper and the great crested newt. So, as well as heathland, the diverse habitats and their wildlife are central to experiencing Angrie as a nature destination.

Church, château and historic buildings

The parish church of Saint-Pierre replaced an older church and was built between 1869 and 1873. Its floor plan is in the shape of a Latin cross: the elongated main section and the transverse section together form the cruciform layout. The construction dates refer to the new building, while the former church represents an earlier layer of the town’s history.

The Château d’Angrie is considered the first Neo-Gothic château in Anjou. Its reception rooms feature trompe-l’œil decorations painted by Achille Léger. These paintings create an impression of spatial depth. The château is partially protected as a historic monument. Its architectural significance and painted decoration make it a subject in its own right alongside the churches.

The windmill Moulin-Neuf, also known as Moulin de la Marmite, is believed to date from the 17th century. It ceased operating in 1952, was added to the supplementary inventory of historic monuments in 1975, and was restored and returned to working order in 1980. These dates trace its history from its estimated age through its closure to its later restoration. The regional protection list of 19 January 2022 lists the Manoir de la Gâchetière as a historic monument; its façades, roofs and chapel are protected.

The chapels also date from different periods. The Chapelle Notre-Dame du Coeur immaculé de Marie, dite de la Croix-Poulet, was built between 1845 and 1846. The Chapelle de la Gâchetière dates from 1632. Together with the parish church and the mill, they represent several different construction periods and building types that shape Angrie’s heritage.

Circular trail and visit planning

The Les Grés et Terres d’Angrie circular trail is 23 kilometres long and starts and ends in Angrie. On foot, it takes about five hours and 30 minutes; the time required may vary depending on walking pace. This estimate therefore provides a rough time frame for planning your day. The trail is also open to horse riders and mountain bikers. These activities offer another way to plan your route; the stated time applies to walking.

The lime kilns at La Veurière are open to visitors by prior reservation. If you plan to visit, make sure to include a reservation in your plans.

Discover more destinations: Ingrandes, Beaulieu-Sur-Layon, Sainte-Gemmes-d'Andigné, Noyant, Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Louresse-Rochemenier, La Breille-Les-Pins, La Romagne.

For the broader travel overview: Maine-Et-Loire.