Top 10 Things to do in Cholet France

Top 10 Things to do in Cholet France

1. The Museum of Art

Museum of Art Cholet by trip advisor

Appreciate  the artistic and historical heritage of Cholet in the Museum of Art that is located right in the heart of the city. Here, you can discover an outstanding collection of art displayed in a contemporary museum.  In this space, paintings, sculptures, and other historical artifacts coexist.

2. Trades Shoe Museum

Photo by LOGAN WEAVER on Unsplash

Take a walk back in time and get an insight into how shoes were made traditionally in France. A former shoe factory in Colmar houses an interesting museum. Inside, there are centenary machines and tools which let you discover the methods and steps of making a shoe.

Here, the history of the shoe industry is showcased and you shall be introduced to the cobblers’ technique, and all that is involved in clog making.

There is a permanent exhibition of many strange or even funny items of footwear, from all periods of shoe history from all corners of the world. This the only museum in France dedicated to this theme, a breathtaking collection of machines and shoes that you wouldn’t want to miss seeing.

3. Verdon Gorge

Verdon Gorge Image by Tom und Nicki Löschner from Pixabay

Often described as earth’s second biggest canyon after the Grand Canyon in the United States, Verdon Gorge is said to be as the world’s second largest Canyon, and is also said to be one of the most beautiful places in Europe. It is about 25 km long and up to 700 metres deep. It was formed by the Verdon River, which is named for its astonishingly turquoise-green color, one of the characteristics that make the location so breathtaking.

The  gorge is very popular with tourists as it is close to the French Riviera. You can drive around the rim of the gorge and enjoy spectacular views. Also, one can rent kayaks to travel on the river, swim,  or just take a long hike along its banks. The limestone walls, which are very high, attract daring rock climbers.

4. Vendée Vitrail

vendée vitrail Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash

Vendée Vitrail is located in the heart of the Saint-Hilaire church in Mortagne-sur-Sèvre. This newly renovated church offers enjoyable discovery around the world of stained-glass. The stages of the design of stained-glass windows can be followed through the different spaces of the place. Translate the different meanings embedded in these works of art and explore the work of master Vendean glassmakers. In about one hour you can discover the tools and the history of manufacture of stained-glass in a very playful atmosphere. 

5. Textile and Fashion Museum

person holding scissors about to cut red thread Photo by Les Triconautes on Unsplash

Weaving has long been a part of Cholets history. This tradition has formed the basis of the town to date. The famous Cholet red handkerchief has been passed down many centuries making it the areas’ local emblem. It began to grow in the 19th century when handkerchiefs and household linens were developing.

Calixte Ouvrard built this textile factory in 1881, and today it stands as one of the last pieces of handkerchief city textile industry. The museum is housed in an old bleaching factory. Its permanent exhibition rooms present the history of the textile industry and the process of turning fiber into fabric. Demonstrations of how evolution weaving and operating machines work are regularly made and are fun to watch at this museum.

6. Lac de Ribou

lac de ribou by Sébastien Carlier Wikimedia Commons

There is an artificial lake bordered by an outdoor and leisure complex located 4 km south-east of Cholet. The site is accessible all year round, both for groups and for individuals. Access is free and various associations offer different things to do.  Some activities you can explore here are horse riding, fishing, canoeing on the lake amongst others. The place is wonderful for quiet walks, too.

7. Rocher du Manis

rocks on the hill Photo by ruben daems on Unsplash

A tremendous site for climbing, the Rocher du Manis has tracks that are accessible for beginners and is considered a climber’s paradise. . The Manis rock is open to thrill seekers and spectators alike. Located on the banks of the Sèvre nantaise, with its 35 meters high, the Manis rock stands magnificently at 35 meters tall.

To get there, from the center of Longonnais, take the direction of Mortagne-sur-Sèvre via Évrunes. The car park is located on the right, about 3 km. Take the path south of the car park which descends towards the Sèvre and, in the meadow, turn east. The rocks are to the left of the meadow (1 km from the car park for 15 minutes of approach).

8. Cholet’s Menhirs

Cholet_-Menhir By Selbymay Wikimedia Commons

For a relaxed atmosphere to sit down and have a lunch picnic with the young ones or your lover or even alone, you can enjoy a breath of fresh air at the Cholet Menhirs. This peaceful oasis is near the city center but is such a beautiful contrast to the hustle and bustle of the town. Escape the noise and many people and settle to relax in plush green gardens that will make you feel revitalized and one with nature.

9. Taste some Chocolate

Mouchoirs de Cholet by joursheureux.fr Pinterest

A trip to France is not complete without a little indulgence.  Mouchoirs de Cholet are orange-flavoured almond paste and pralines in thin squares coated with chocolate dyed red incidentally, inspired by the red handkerchief hemmed by two intersecting white lines.

Whether the chocolate inspired the handkerchief or if it is the other way around, this is a heavenly treat that you would be happy to try. They are sold everywhere even in tourist offices. It would not be hard for you to get your hands on this delicious treat.

10. Jardins de la Cure

Jardin_de_la_Cure By KiwiNeko14 Wikimedia Commons

“La Cure” gardens offer exceptional views on the valley on the banks of the river Sèvre. Inspired by Italy and in order to respect its history the site has been put back to its original state. (Bassins, fountains, staircases, etc…)

Along the banks of the river Sèvre, you will find serene gardens with cultural and educational character. The La Cure gardens offer exceptional views of the valley. They have Italian history and to respect its heritage, work has been done to put it back to its original state.  Here, one can see ancient Bassins, fountains and staircases.

The gardens are accessible  all year round and can be described as a pleasure garden. It boasts of rectory and monastic  architectural style . The tour is free and even group tours can be organized.