Situated between the Thouet and Loire rivers in the Pays de la Loire region of western France and surrounded by vineyards, the medieval town of Saumur is a wonderful place to stop on a car trip through the area – especially since some of the country’s best wine is produced here! It is also a renowned equestrian centre and is home to the Ecole Nationale d’Equitation, or National School of Horsemanship.

While visiting Saumur, be sure to spend some time at the 10th century Chateau de Saumur, which overlooks the place where the two rivers converge and has been listed as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture since 1862. In addition, the castle boasts real watchtowers and a dungeon. Fittingly, Saumur is home to the French Cavalry, as well as to several military museums, paying homage to it’s role in World War II, while the Hotel de Ville and other buildings lining the river are nearly as breathtaking as the castle itself!