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Cycling activity near Angers — Château des Forges

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Treat yourself to a getaway in the heart of Anjou. Enter your arrival and departure dates below, then book your stay at Château des Forges.

Cycling activity near Angers — Château des Forges
Nature & walks in Anjou

The most beautiful parks in Angers: where to go for a stroll and relax in the ‘capital of plants’

In Angers, nature is as much a part of the landscape as its historical heritage. From botanical gardens and large urban parks to walks along the banks of the Loire and family-friendly attractions such as Terra Botanica, the city offers a diverse range of unique experiences amongst the greenery. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to go for a stroll, observe the flora, play with the children or simply enjoy the peace and quiet, Angers offers a wealth of parks and different atmospheres!

And to make the most of your exploration, choosing our hotel in Angers allows you to easily explore its parks, neighbourhoods and must-see attractions.

Terra Botanica: the unmissable botanical adventure park

Opened in 2010, Terra Botanica is Europe’s first theme park dedicated exclusively to the plant world. Designed in collaboration with botanists, researchers from Angers and horticultural experts, this park in Angers showcases over 500,000 species, varieties and plants from all over the world. With tropical greenhouses, themed gardens, educational attractions, immersive films and a walk in a ‘walnut shell’, a visit offers a unique blend of entertainment and scientific discovery.

Our tip: allow a full day, especially with children, to make the most of the seasonal activities, botanical workshops and interactive areas.

  • Address: Route d’Épinard, 49000 Angers
  • Average duration of visit: 4 to 6 hours

Jardin des Plantes: ideal for a family stroll

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Lug creation / Anjou Tourisme

Established in the 18th century, the Jardin des Plantes is one of the oldest public gardens in Angers. Its current design, influenced by the landscape architect Édouard André (a leading figure in French landscape architecture), combines a romantic park, botanical collections and areas for relaxation. This park in Angers is home to over 4,000 plant species, a shaded walkway, ponds, an aviary and a family-friendly play area.

Our tip: visit in spring or early June, when the blooms are at their most spectacular and perfect for photography.

  • Address: 32 rue Botanique, 49100 Angers
  • Average duration of visit: 45 mins to 1 hour 30 mins

Balzac Park on the banks of the Maine: nature, birds and cycle paths

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Etienne BEGOUEN / Anjou Tourisme

Developed in the 1990s, the Parc de Balzac is part of an exemplary ecological initiative. In collaboration with the LPO (League for the Protection of Birds), this park in Angers features a protected wetland, natural meadows, educational beehives and numerous birdwatching hides. Situated on the banks of the Maine, it is also an ideal place for cycling, running or picnicking.

Our tip: bring your binoculars or camera – the site is one of the best spots for observing local wildlife in Angers.

  • Address: Avenue du Lac de Maine, 49000 Angers
  • Average duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours

Parc de Saint-Nicolas: urban forest and fitness trails

Designated a sensitive natural area, Parc de Saint-Nicolas is one of Angers’ largest green spaces. Its undulating terrain, a legacy of former quarries, makes it an ideal playground for sports enthusiasts, walkers and families seeking adventure. This park in Angers is also home to protected wild flora and several species of birds, making it a study site regularly visited by naturalists and photographers.

Our tip: make sure you wear sturdy shoes – the paths can be steep, but the view over the ponds is well worth the effort.

  • Address: Quartier Saint-Nicolas, 49100 Angers
  • Average duration of visit: 1½ to 3 hours

Gaston Allard Arboretum: an exceptional botanical garden

Founded in the 19th century by the botanist and collector Gaston Allard, this arboretum is now managed by the Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, a leading horticultural research centre. It is home to over 1,500 species of trees and shrubs, including rare varieties being studied for conservation and climate adaptation. A place for study, but also for a stroll, this park in Angers charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere, its remarkable rows of trees and its English-style garden.

Our tip: download or ask for the botanical map before your visit so you don’t miss any of the rare collections.

  • Address: 9 Rue du Château d’Orgemont, 49000 Angers
  • Average duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours

Why is Angers the capital of gardens and green spaces?

Angers has certainly earned its title as the ‘capital of plants’: for centuries, the city has nurtured a genuine passion for botany and horticulture. Situated in the heart of Anjou, in the Loire Valley – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it enjoys a mild and fertile climate ideal for biodiversity. From historic gardens to contemporary urban parks, Angers cultivates a landscape art form that is unique in France.

This identity is reflected in its horticultural training programmes, its floral events, its well-maintained green spaces and its commitment to combining nature, wellbeing and tourist appeal.

Discovering a park in Angers means discovering a city where nature, culture and heritage come together. From the historic gardens in the city centre to vast unspoilt spaces such as Saint-Nicolas or Balzac, via the immersive experience of Terra Botanica, each location offers a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re with your family, as a couple or on your own, these parks offer a chance to enjoy a peaceful and refreshing change of scenery! Don’t wait any longer!

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