Unlike many small Loire towns, SAUMUR is not completely dominated by its château, nor by the military, though it's been the home of the French Cavalry Academy, and its successor, the Armoured Corps Academy, since 1763. Even the local sparkling wines are based elsewhere. Saumur itself is simply a peaceful and pretty place, spread along both banks of the Loire and over a small island in the middle of the river. The Hôtel de Ville strives busily to attract festivals and confere... [More]