Along the Loire Valley: from Les Ponts-de-Ce (east of Angers), Saumur, Villebernier, Varennes, Montsoreau, Fontrevaud-l’Abbaye to Bourgeuil and Langeais, dropping south to include Azay-le-Rideau, Chinon, Loudun and Richelieu
A little further south and west : Doué-la Fontaine, Vihiers, Montreuil-Bellay
Into the north Deux-Sèvres: Following the beautiful Thouet valley, Thouars, Airvault, St-Loup-Lamairé, Parthenay; across the area to Argenton-Château (les Vallées), Mauléon, Bressuire, Cérizay, Moncoutant, L’Absie, Secondigny, Thénezay, Mirabeau (Vienne)
This is a large area, encompassing the sophisticated and historic town of Saumur set in one of the prettiest parts of the Loire Valley, the rolling countryside of north Deux-Sèvres, its typically French market towns, medieval villages, the beautiful Thouet valley – truly ‘France profonde’.
Property overview
Saumur and its stunning setting are well-known and the town attracts a high number of visitors. Prices are holding their own and property continues to be a very sound investment. Along the valley, there are many good value for money properties available to the discerning buyer and bargains can still be found, particularly in properties needing renovation.
Although the Poitou Charentes region as a whole is very popular with overseas buyers and French retirees, Deux-Sèvres’ best-kept secret is that much of it is unexplored, unknown to British buyers and often passed over in general reviews of buying in France.
Most towns in the area revolve around their market and have retained a traditional atmosphere. Prices are very competitive and opportunities to acquire a true bargain are considerable.