Home to the largest Japanese garden in France, Cholet is a former textiles hub that hosted a famous battle during the French Revolutionary Wars. It’s renowned for its red handkerchiefs and is dotted with picturesque lakes that provide a setting for walks and watersports.
Things to do in Cholet
Occupying several factory buildings dating back to 1881 is the Museum of Textiles and Fashion, which explores Cholet’s centuries of spinning, dyeing and weaving. Get up close to historic looms in action and learn about some of the town’s most famous weavers before shopping for Cholet’s trademark red handkerchief in the on-site store. The surrounding garden is planted with species used to produce textile fibres and dyes.
Another cultural museum not to miss in Cholet is the Museum of Art and History, where you can learn about the battle that was fought here between Republican and Royalist forces in 1793. Paintings and sculptures from the 16th century to the present day are exhibited in the light-filled gallery spaces, with a highlight being the interactive 1960s labyrinth installation by GRAV.
Cholet is dotted with enchanting parks, including the central Parc François Tharreau. Overlooking Lac du Verdon to the south-west of the town centre is Parc Oriental de Maulévrier, a Japanese-inspired garden created at the turn of the 20th century. Located on the grounds of the Château Colbert, it features an ornamental bridge and pavilion, tranquil water features and inspiring bonsai displays.
Getting around Cholet
Cholet is around 45 minutes’ drive from Nantes and an hour from Nantes Atlantique Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Trains connect to the Gare de Cholet from towns and cities across Maine-et-Loire. The centre of Cholet is compact enough to explore on foot.