Chahaignes: Wine Landscape and Heritage

Chahaignes brings together winegrowing, trails through the countryside and historic buildings, providing a practical starting point for planning your trip. The commune lies at the centre of the Loir Valley winegrowing area, which includes the protected designations of origin AOC Jasnières and Coteaux du Loir. There are walking, cycling and riding trails between vineyards and woodland. At the same time, several châteaux, a church and a menhir represent different aspects of local history. If you are looking for a hotel in Chahaignes, these interests can help guide your stay.

Châteaux and historical layers

Château de Bénéhard reflects several historical layers. It was built in the 16th century on the site of an older fortress and expanded in the 17th century. The older fortress and the later extension represent distinct phases of construction, making it possible to understand the château’s history across more than a single date of origin. Several cave entrances are located beside the château, cut into Turonian tuff on the other side of the courtyard. A restored Roman-type press, probably dating from the 15th century, is housed in a large, ventilated cave. The press can therefore be dated separately from the château: its probable date is the 15th century, while the château was built in the 16th century.

Château de la Jaille also dates from the 16th century and is partly listed as a Monument historique. Its park was laid out in the Mediterranean style around 1920. Unlike Château de Bénéhard, whose building history includes an older fortress and a later extension, the park’s design represents a distinct historical thread here. The park is open in early June during the Journées des jardins; check the dates before your visit.

Church and protected monuments

Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste has a clearly documented sequence of events: a fire almost completely destroyed it in 1705, and it was rebuilt in 1733. The terracotta retables inside date from the 18th century and have been classified as historic monuments since 1907. Admission is free; ask for the key at the town hall. There is also a Hosannière cross in the churchyard.

Alongside the châteaux and church, the local heritage also includes the Menhir de Gobianne. It has been listed as a Monument historique since 8 February 1984.

Trails through vineyards and woodland

For time outdoors, there are not only walking trails but also cycling and riding trails between vineyards and woodland. The 9.3-kilometre PR walking trail “Chahaignes – Entre caves et coteaux” offers a specific route. Check the trail details before setting off. The route passes a winegrower who welcomes visitors; ask the business directly about visiting arrangements before adding a visit to your plans. If you would like to explore the landscape beyond a single route, you can also consider the Forêt de Bercé, which is accessible from Chahaignes.

Discover more destinations: Conflans-Sur-Anille, La Ferté-Bernard, Le Bailleul, Courgains, Brûlon, Pezé-le-Robert, Thoiré-sur-Dinan, Sillé-Le-Philippe

For the broader travel overview: Sarthe.