Guide to Maine-et-Loire & Properties in Department 49

Maine-et-Loire is a department located in Western France's Loire Valley, in the Pays de la Loire region. The department's prefecture is Angers, which is a historic city that is known for its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful gardens, and impressive architecture. In addition to Angers, Maine-et-Loire has three sub-prefectures in Cholet, Saumur, and Segré-en-Anjou Bleu, which are all charming towns with their own unique character and attractions. The department (number 49) was originally known as Mayenne-et-Loire, but it was renamed to Maine-et-Loire in 1791. The department was formed from most of the previous province of Anjou, which was a historic province known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque countryside, and impressive castles. Today, Maine-et-Loire is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its historic sites, museums, vineyards and natural beauty.

A Varied Landscape

Maine-et-Loire is surrounded by several departments, including Ille-et-Vilaine, Mayenne, Sarthe, Indre-et-Loire, Vienne, Deux-Sèvres, Vendée, and Loire-Atlantique. The department has a varied landscape, with forested ranges of hills in the south and north separated by the valley of the Loire, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its landscapes, history and cultural significance.

Outdoor Fun and Water Activities

The area is also home to many navigable rivers, such as the Loire, Sarthe, Mayenne, Loir and Authion, which are popular for boating, fishing and other water activities. Additionally, there are several leisure lakes in the region that offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and other outdoor fun activities during the summer months.

Key Information about Maine-et-Loire

• Main City/Prefecture: Angers  
• Nearest Airport: Nantes Atlantique Airport
• Population: Around 818,000 (as of the latest census)  
• Area: 7,166 sq. kilometres and 2,767 sq. miles  
• Landmark: Château d'Angers, a medieval fortress housing the Apocalypse Tapestry.  
• Number of Tourists per Year: Approx. 3 million, drawn by its Loire Valley châteaux, vineyards and UNESCO-listed landscapes.

Maine-et-Loire is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor adventures. If you are looking for a property in this area of the Loire Valley in France, please get in touch with your search criteria.