Festivini: cultural wine festival in Saumur, Loire Valley

At Festivini, which runs from June to September, gastronomes and wine lovers will be in their element around Saumur in the Loire Valley. A plethora of wine-themed activities are organised in the heart of summer – and over the 17 weeks, there are numerous opportunities to put the local seven appellations of origin (AOCs) in the spotlight.

Vineyard hikes, horseback rides through the chateau estate, recreational workshops around wine development, historical heritage scenography: Festivini, wine festival of Saumur, offers many activities around wine. Here are a few ideas.

Royal Abbey of Fontevraud



The opening of the cultural season in the vineyard is marked by a magical 8 June: a plunge into the world of Alice in Wonderland. It’ll be a true metamorphosis of the abbey with a show, a light display and other artistic surprises – and with a musical aperitif, dinner and a tasting of the 7 AOC Saumur wines, this jewel of architecture and national heritage will be shown off to its very best.

Dreamlike fantasy is also the focus of artist Delphine Vaute, creator of Festivini’s poster, who depicts her original and poetic vision of the event through this and a series of labels for Fontevraud La Cuvée. She also contributes to a moving exhibition at the Terrace Gourmande of the Royal Abbey from June onwards.

Sunday in the countryside with lunch al fresco



A barbecue is on offer to visitors who want to learn about the latest vintage of appellation ‘Saumur Puy Notre Dame’. Everyone brings a picnic and winemakers are on hand with drinks. ‘Sortie de Chai’ is on 2 June from 11am-3pm, open to all with free access.

A wine-tasting cruise with the 7 AOCs



This is a great opportunity to enjoy another view of the Loire, the heritage of Saumur and the seven appellations of Saumur wines. These ‘Croisières Vigneronnes’ take visitors for an epicurean escape along the wild river, meeting a winemaker en route. Fifty minutes of pure joy.

On foot, by bike, on horseback or by segway?



Walk in the Saumur-Champigny vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting (tours last 2 ½ hours). Lose yourself in one of the Loire’s most beautiful vineyards, while discovering its history and variety and enjoying the beautiful view of the hills of the Loire. Adventurous types can try the segway ride paired with a wine tasting in the cellar of one of the organiser’s partners at Chateau de Parnay.

Dine among the vines



Organised by the Montreuil-Bellay Winemakers’ Association in collaboration with the town of Montreuil-Bellay, the ‘On dine en vignes’ evening involves a delicious meal among the rows of vines, accompanied by music for dancing with the winemakers.

Saumur in the Loire Valley