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Cap Loire: A Journey Through Loire River History

Discover the Loire River's history and culture at this engaging park and museum in the heart of Mauges-sur-Loire.

★★★★★4.4 (167)

Cap Loire, located in Mauges-sur-Loire, is a unique park and museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Loire River. Explore interactive exhibits, themed gardens, and historic boats to discover the rich heritage of this vital French waterway.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Cap Loire

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
20 Rue d'Anjou, Mauges-sur-Loire, 49570, FR
Tuesday
10 am-6 pm
Wednesday
10 am-6 pm
Thursday
10 am-6 pm
Friday
10 am-6 pm
Saturday
10 am-6 pm
Sunday
10 am-6 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cap Loire.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Check the Cap Loire website for the schedule of events and activities, including themed days and guided tours.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the gardens and climbing aboard the historic Cap Vert barge.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic gardens, or grab a bite at the on-site snack bar.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket with other local attractions like the Musée des Métiers or Moulin de l'Epinay for a discounted rate.

Discover more about Cap Loire

Cap Loire is a captivating discovery park and museum in Montjean-sur-Loire, within the Mauges-sur-Loire region, that brings the history and culture of the Loire River to life. Opened in May 2011, the park highlights Montjean-sur-Loire's past as a significant river port. The park features several key attractions. The interactive museum plunges visitors into the lives of Loire sailors, with engaging exhibits and films. Climb aboard the Cap Vert, a historic motorized barge from 1928, classified as a historical monument, offering a glimpse into the world of river transport in the early 20th century. Explore the park's themed gardens, including an irrigated garden with exotic plants, a Loire garden reflecting local life, and a wooded meadow garden showcasing the area's mining history. These gardens provide a tranquil setting to appreciate the Loire's natural beauty. Throughout the year, Cap Loire hosts various events and activities, including treasure hunts and escape games, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all ages. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Cap Loire offers an enriching experience for anyone exploring the Loire Valley.

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    Getting There

    Driving

    From the A11 autoroute (Paris/Nantes), take exit 19 towards Beaupréau/Chalonnes. Cap Loire is approximately 10 minutes from the exit. Follow the D723 towards Montjean-sur-Loire. Parking is available at the entrance to the site. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

    Public Transport

    Take the train to Champtocé-sur-Loire station, about 3 km from Cap Loire. From there, you can take a taxi or use the Transport à la Demande (TAD) service, which needs to be booked in advance. The TAD service connects to various points within Mauges-sur-Loire. Contact Allô Aléop at 09 69 39 14 14 to register and book your transport. A single trip using the Aléop à la demande service costs between 2€ and 4€, depending on the number of zones crossed.

    Cycling

    Cap Loire is located 200m from the Loire à Vélo route. Follow the signs for Montjean-sur-Loire. There is a dedicated rest area for cyclists near Cap Loire.

    A brief summary to Cap Loire

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