Le Vieil-Baugé brings together a notable chapter in the history of battle, a church whose twisted bell tower remains a mystery to this day, and marked trails through old streets. You can explore the town through its buildings and historical events, or on walks. In addition to the streets and houses, the banks of the Couasnon and a pond offer specific things to see and do locally.
Battle history in the town
The Battle of Le Vieil-Baugé took place on 22 March 1421. English troops faced French forces allied with the Scots; the Duke of Clarence was among the casualties. A skirmish first took place at Pont-Godeau. Fighting then continued in the streets of Le Vieil-Baugé and along the banks of the Couasnon. The locations mentioned thus range from the town itself to the river.
Church and architectural history
The Church of Saint-Symphorien brings together architectural periods from the 11th to the 19th century; its choir is in the Plantagenet style. Particularly striking is its twisted, leaning bell tower, built in 1856. Why it twists remains a mystery. This building thus brings together a long architectural history and an unusual tower shape.
Groups of 20 to 40 people can visit the church. Arrange your visit in advance before making plans.
The Château de Montivert is also in Le Vieil-Baugé. The late Neo-Gothic château was built between 1893 and 1895 and was inspired by the Angevin residences of the time of King René. The Logis de Clairefontaine is listed as a historic monument; its main construction phases date from the 13th and 15th centuries. It was listed on 28 December 1984. The dates distinguish the buildings: Clairefontaine combines medieval construction phases, while Montivert dates from the late 19th century.
On foot through the streets and countryside
The La Butte de Rancan circular trail is 4.8 kilometres long, easy, and suitable for families. It starts and ends in Le Vieil-Baugé; access is via the car park at Place de l'église. The “Circuit historique et patrimoine du Pas de la Mule” walking route also starts in Le Vieil-Baugé. Yellow “Pas de la Mule” markers lead through picturesque streets lined with houses from the 15th and 16th centuries. The Rancan circuit has a set distance and difficulty level; the Pas de la Mule focuses on the streets and their historic houses.
The name “Pas de la Mule” is also linked to a legend that arose around the fighting. Thus, alongside the known historical events, there is also a local tradition. If you are interested in the connection between local history and storytelling, this is another aspect of the route's name.
Pond and Couasnon
The pond in Le Vieil-Baugé has a picnic area and offers opportunities for walks and relaxation. From there, you can enjoy a view of the village and its distinctive twisted bell tower. Check the facilities on site before travelling. The fishing association La Gaule Baugeoise is responsible for managing the pond at Pont Godeau; check the current fishing rules on site.
You can also walk along the banks of the Couasnon in Le Vieil-Baugé. As well as the marked routes through the streets, there are other options for a walk by the water. The combination of local history, architecture, and riverside or pond landscapes gives you different ways to spend your time in Le Vieil-Baugé, without any single route needing to suit every interest.
Discover more destinations: Noëllet, Faye-D'anjou, Saint-Crespin-Sur-Moine, Brion, Charcé-Saint-Ellier-Sur-Aubance, Le Puy-Notre-Dame, Cheffes, Chaudefonds-Sur-Layon.
Go to the main travel overview: Maine-Et-Loire.
