The lakes of Rillé and Hommes Rillé (in the photo on the right) has a leisure lake with designated bathing areas, surf boards and boat hire. There is also a much larger conservation lake and it is possible to observe some of the water birds from a hide at the edge of the woods.

The lakes at Hommes have been created from disused quarries. Most of the lakes are very deep and you are advised that swimming is dangerous but one lake has a surveyed swimming area. These lakes are popular and can be very crowded at weekends and on public holidays.

There are several Zoos within a short journey from Parçay-les-Pins. The two most popular are at Doué la Fontaine (40km) and La Flèche. Those who have visited both zoos find it hard to chose between them!

These photos were taken at La Flèche.

HOLLY PARK is the nearest Theme Park and is situated at Château de la Grifferaie, 49150 Echemiré, near to Baugé (20km)

Approximate distances from Parçay-les-Pins are given in brackets

Of the various Riding Schools in the region the nearest is Les Ecuries du Chateau de Gizeux which charges 10€ - €15per hour. They cater for beginners and for more experienced riders and the rides go through the extensive woodland surrounding the Chateau. It is quite easy to book a session during your stay in one of our gites.

Contact: Diane Demas, Les Ecuries de Chateau de Gizeux, 37340 Telephone: 02 47 96 03 91 - or we will phone and make an appointment for you during your holiday.

 Photos show riders setting off from the stables at the Chateau de Gizeux in August 2006

Saumur, 'la ville du cheval' (equestrian city) has a horse museum in the château and is home to the famous National Riding School, the Cadre Noir, which can also be visited.

The area is good for Cyclists, both professional and amateur. Each year some visitors to the gîtes bring bicycles with them and explore the local area.

On Friday 9 July 2004 the sixth stage of Le Tour de France, from Bonneval to Angers, came through Baugé.

BIKE RENTAL is available from various places in Saumur. Just two examples are given here:

CRISTAL HOTEL 10, Place de la Republique

CAMPING MUNICIPAL DE SAUMUR Ile d'Offard, avenue de Verden

The nearest Golf course is at Baugé just 20 minutes away. Golf de Baugé, Pontigné, Domaine de Bordes de Tours, Phone 02 41 89 1027

Courses in or near Saumur:

Golf de Saumur (9 hole) Routes des Mortins, Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Florent 49400. Phone: 02 41 50 87 00

Domaine Saint-Hilaire (18 hole) on the D147 at Roiffé 86120 Phone: 05 49 98 40 00

Courses in or near Angers:

Three 18 hole courses near Angers: Golf d'Avrillé, Blue Green Chateau de la Perriere, 49240 Avrillé, 6km north;  Golf Club d'Angers, Moulin de Pistrait, 49320 St Jean des Mauvrets, Phone 02 41 91 96 56; Anjou Golf and Country Club, Route de Cheffes, 49330 Champigné, 24km north

Le Mans 24 Hours

Le Moulin Verneau is a good base from which to enjoy this race and/or the Classic Cars as Le Mans is less than an hour's drive away along quiet, direct country lanes.