Zoo de Doue is located in the town of Doue-la Fontaine which
is 17KM south west of Saumur. It is well signposted off the D960
bypass around the town. Its inconspicuous entrance
belies the experience that awaits the visitor. On entering, you are
immediately
transported into the most unexpected of environments and
the
feeling of being in another world.
Its position,
within the excavations
of an old
quarry, makes it an ideal place to visit, even on the sunniest of
days, as you are provided with plenty of shade from the varied
plants and trees as well as the natural caverns of the quarry.
Children will
find the habitat as much fun as viewing the good collection (over
600) of animals.
They will
love the
pygmy hippopotami as they
can be viewed under water swimming only
inches away from you.
The
enclosures are built in such a way that you feel you are walking
amongst the animals (not a cage in sight) and unlike some zoos the
majority of them actually look very comfortable in their
environment.
There are many opportunities to watch the animals being
fed during your visit with the vulture pit being an unusual
experience –although not for the faint hearted!
At Doue you will find not only
the largest aviary in France but that of Europe! It is
dedicated to South American birds, built over a site of 1
hectare.
200 birds, Macaws, ibis, spoonbills, vultures and flamingos
can be found with new birds continuing to be added.
You
will have a great day out here with the kids and although
you have options for eating on-site you can also take a
picnic -- don’t forget to get something for the animals.
The zoo is
open from February through to November 1st.
Open 9.00am
‘til 7.30pm
during the summer months.
Tariffs:
adults: € 19.50
children (from 3
to 10 years): € 13.50
