Discover Morannes

There are several options to focus on during a stay in Morannes: the “Les Hauts de Morannes” circular trail, fishing on the Sarthe, the Thursday morning market, and historic buildings. Consider which of these interests you want to shape your trip.

Hiking the Circular Trail

The “Les Hauts de Morannes” hiking trail is an 18.6-kilometre circular route through the cultivated countryside around Morannes, mostly on flat ground. Its length makes it a substantial outing to plan into your day. The route follows Rue des Moulins, where you can see old houses belonging to river boatmen. In the hamlet of Le Gravier, the trail offers a view of the Villechien lock. The houses give the route an architectural connection to river transport, while the lock at Le Gravier provides a specific viewpoint.

Fishing and Moorings

On the Sarthe, at Quai des Moulins, there is a well-equipped fishing spot that is easy to reach by car and has a boat-launching ramp. Anglers can fish for pike, zander, perch, catfish, roach, bream, and bleak in the Sarthe. Check the applicable species regulations and fishing rules before fishing. The list includes both predatory fish and white fish, giving anglers a choice of different target-fish groups rather than just one species.

The Halte fluviale de Morannes has moorings with water and electricity connections, as well as a pontoon for leisure boats. Free mooring is limited to 72 hours; this time limit applies to free use.

Market and Historic Buildings

A market is held every Thursday morning at Place De Gaulle in Morannes. If you would like to include a visit in your travel plans, check the date before travelling, as the market must still be running.

The Manoir des Grignons in Morannes was built around 1460. Its architectural features include a tower, a gatehouse, a wall-mounted watch turret (échauguette), and moats. Together, these elements point to the estate’s defensive character.

A medieval residential building survives at the former priory of Juigné in Morannes. During a guided tour of Morannes in 2025, wall paintings from the late 19th century were viewed at the Cercle du Père Riou. The buildings and wall paintings offer different points of reference in time for exploring the history of the area.

Planning Your Trip Around Your Interests

Thursday morning provides a set time for visiting the market; the 18.6-kilometre circular trail, by contrast, is a longer outing and a separate item on the itinerary. When planning, you can decide whether to focus on a specific day of the week or on the hike.

Discover more destinations: Champigné, Avrillé, Varennes-sur-Loire, Durtal, Nueil-Sur-Layon, Soucelles, Yzernay, La Séguinière.

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