The Western Loire region officially starts outside the Roman walls of Le Mans and winds west along the river to the beaches and islands of the Atlantic coast, encompassing the best of two worlds: inland and aquatic. 

As part of the Loire River valley, the province has its own chateaux and Romanesque churches, with hundreds of miles of navigable waterways and cycling routes through some of France's most attractive countryside. 

The region is also known for the wines produced there, most notably the local Muscadet.

Nantes is a gateway to the Atlantic and capital of Western Loire. A fascinating and varied town, Nantes various quarters are steeped in history and its museums are rich in art collections.

Jules Verne, born here, has his own museum. To the south of the Loire, Gros Plant and Muscadet wines are produced.