Angers

13th-century medieval fortress with 17 black-schist towers overlooking the Maine. Leashed dogs are welcome on the free-access outer ramparts walk and in the moat gardens; they may not enter the keep or the Tapestry of the Apocalypse gallery.

An 80-hectare landscape park around an 18th-century chateau 8 km east of Angers. Dogs can run off-leash on the signposted forest paths (leash required in formal gardens). It is the metropolitan area's premier dog-walking destination.

The signature riverside walk at the foot of the Château ramparts, along the Maine. A wide paved alley with shaded benches, direct views of the fortress and the Pont de Verdun, open to leashed dogs year-round.

The medieval quarter on the left bank of the Maine, with timber-framed houses around Place de la Laiterie and Place du Tertre Saint-Laurent. Almost entirely pedestrian, dog-friendly on its terraces and at the Saturday morning artisan market.

12th-13th century Gothic cathedral with a carved screen-façade and the richest sacred art collection in western France. Dogs are not admitted inside, but the forecourt and the monumental staircase are accessible and offer one of the finest views of the centre.

A 100-hectare urban lake on the southwest edge of Angers, surrounded by a 220-hectare leisure park. Leashed dogs are permitted on paths and shoreline year-round, except on the designated bathing beach from June to September.