Getaway to Clisson, a taste of Italy in the land of Hellfest
Between golden vines and red brick facades, Clisson has been living a love affair with Italy for over two centuries. But this medieval town doesn't just play the role of Tuscan understudy. It also vibrates to the metal rhythms of the legendary Hellfest festival. Here, medieval castle towers stand alongside umbrella pines, cobbled alleyways lead to waterside cafés, and ancient statues seem to converse with post-apocalyptic sculptures. Is a weekend really enough to capture all these contrasts? Come and find out.
You'll love
Stroll through the narrow streets of Tuscany
Dining on the terrace with a view of the castle
Explore the legendary Hellfest site
Challenging the void on the Porte-Vue in Château-Thébaud
Day 1 : Clisson, between medieval castle, Italian art and guitar riffs
Morning: a plunge into medieval history
Start by losing yourself under the dizzying framework of Les Halles de Clisson. Intertwined since 1376, these woods resemble a petrified forest where the echoes of the merchants of yesteryear can still be heard. Then head for the Château, which has proudly dominated the town since the 12th century. Its massive towers tell the story of the wars, sieges and victories that have shaped the history of the Pays de la Loire region. From the top of the ramparts, the view over the Sèvre Nantaise river already marks out your path for what's to come.
Noon: a gourmet break with Italian flavours
Head back down to the banks of the Sèvre, along the cobbled alleyways that wind between the houses. On the Pont de la Vallée, the atmosphere changes. The medieval castle is reflected in the water, while the Roman brick and tile facades suddenly transport you to Italy. Push open the door of one of the restaurants lining the river for a taste of local specialties revisited with southern flavors.
Afternoon: Italy in the West
After lunch, cross the bridge to Domaine de la Garenne-Lemot in Gétigné. This 13-hectare park is the work of a sculptor in love with Italy. In the early 19th century, François-Frédéric Lemot recreated his Tuscan dream here: neo-classical villa, antique statues, shady pergolas... Under the umbrella pines, you'll forget you're in Loire-Atlantique. In the Villa Lemot, a sophisticated program of exhibitions reveals another facet of the estate.
Evening: rock'n'roll attitude in Hellfest country
A radical change of atmosphere. Head for the Hellfest site, France's world-famous temple to metal. Outside the festival period (mid-April to mid-June), the site is freely accessible. Monumental statues, phantasmagorical decorations and femur benches: the spirit of the festival is palpable all year round. For a drink or dinner, take a seat at Hellcity, the beer bar and restaurant created by festival founder Ben Barbaud. The ideal place to prolong the Hellfest experience, even when the amps are off.
Day 2 : between vineyards and cliffs around Château-Thébaud
Morning: a trip to Muscadet country
Take to the road to Saint-Fiacre-sur-Maine, some twenty kilometers from Clisson. At Château du Coing, a historic wine estate nestled at the confluence of the Sèvre and Maine rivers, a tour of the winery reveals the secrets of Muscadet. The family passionately recounts the history of this dry, mineral white wine, made from a unique grape variety: Melon de Bourgogne.
Afternoon thrills at Pont-Caffino
Head for Pont-Caffino for an active afternoon. This steep-sided site resembles a small canyon, with cliffs plunging down to the Maine River. The leisure center offers an exceptional natural setting between Maisdon-sur-Sèvre and Château-Thébaud. Choose your adventure: zip lines suspended over the water, climbing courses on natural walls, canoeing or paddling down the river... For the more leisurely, opt for a walk, an archery session or simply watch the climbers defying gravity on the granite cliffs.
To finish on a high note, head to Château-Thébaud to discover the Porte-Vue, a contemporary work by architect Emmanuel Ritz. This daring footbridge soars 30 metres above the void, offering a breathtaking panorama of the valley, vineyards and cliffs of Maisdon-sur-Sèvre. The sensation of floating above the landscape is indescribable, especially as the sun begins to decline and the golden light caresses the vine-covered hillsides.
Want to extend your trip around Clisson?
- On the water: extend your escapade by gliding on the water. From Clisson, set off for a gentle or sporty stroll along the bridges and mills, in a canoe or paddle. A refreshing way to soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
- Discovering the vineyards: let yourself be tempted by the Voyage dans le Vignoble itinerary. By car or bike, this 118 km loop invites you to explore tourist wineries, typical villages and open-air works of art. Each stop, between tastings and panoramic views, reveals a new facet of Muscadet.
