Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine include a variety of historical sites and natural landscapes in the Indre-et-Loire department. This region is characterized by its valleys, such as the Courtineau Valley, and features troglodyte dwellings and ancient castles. There are 13 places to explore, offering insights into local history and natural beauty. Many family friendly attractions Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine are available.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
EuroVelo 3 – A cycling pilgrimage from Norway to France
Hiking around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
Road Cycling Routes around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
Cycling around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine

MTB Trails around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
Running Trails around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine

Gravel biking around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
Crissay-sur-Manse is one of the most beautiful villages in France. The Manse River, which gives the village its name, flows through the southern part of the municipality. Sights: - Saint-Maurice Church (early 16th century) - Houses from the 15th and 16th centuries - Castle ruins (15th century)
0
0
This private castle is an ancient fortress of which only: the large medieval moat in its entirety and which forms 2 quadrilaterals and a 3-sided figure 5 cylindrical towers including the South-East tower pierced with circular loopholes called “couuvrine tower”. The current castle was built in several stages. The residential house which dates from the 16th century had its facades completely remodeled in 1856. Part of it disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century. To the South-West a main building covered with a 4-sloped roof and presenting stone casement windows on the ground floor had been joined by another building in 1731; these buildings were demolished in 1979
0
0
Here you will find the ruins of the collegiate church and the 16th century castle. The Renaissance style church was built between 1510 and 1524. It was here that Charles VII met twice with the Great Council to decide on the last campaign against the English which ended the War of Hundred years. A fascinating place to visit.
3
0
A very nice road
0
0
Crissay sur manse is one of the most beautiful villages in France. These stone houses, its church, its washhouse make it a must in the area.
0
0
The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character. The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood. The water mills: - The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain. - The Courtineau mill - The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there - The Souvres mill. - The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further. The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.
2
0
The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character. The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood. The water mills: - The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain. - The Courtineau mill - The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there - The Souvres mill. - The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further. The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.
1
0
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Ruins of the castle and collegiate church of Roches-Tranchelion, a significant 16th-century site where Charles VII once met the Great Council. Another notable historical location is the Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, known for its ancient dwellings carved into the rock and its connection to Joan of Arc.
Yes, Crissay-sur-Manse Village is a great option for families. This charming settlement in the heart of Touraine offers a glimpse into history with its 15th-century castle ruins, a 16th-century church, and distinctive white tufa houses.
The Courtineau Valley is a prime natural area, classified for its ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest. It stretches six kilometers and features not only troglodyte houses but also water mills and washhouses, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical elements.
You'll find a variety of outdoor activities. For road cycling, routes like 'St Maure Touraine to Île-Bouchard' offer easy rides. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as 'View of Le Prezault – Crissay-sur-Manse Village loop'. Hiking options include the 'Le Louroux loop' which is an easy trail. You can find more details on these and other routes on the respective guide pages: Road Cycling Routes, MTB Trails, and Hiking around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine.
Yes, you can see Boisbonnard Castle. This private castle is an old fortress with medieval moats and cylindrical towers, though it was extensively altered in 1856. While private, its historical architecture and surrounding features are noteworthy.
Villages like Crissay-sur-Manse Village are known for their distinctive white tufa houses, often featuring square turrets, mullioned windows, and ornate details, reflecting the traditional architecture of the Touraine region.
Yes, there are easy hiking options. For instance, the 'Le Louroux loop - Natural area of the Louroux pond' is an easy trail, just under 6 km, perfect for beginners or a relaxed walk. Another easy option is the 'Étang de Comare loop from Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois', which is about 2.5 km. More easy trails can be found on the Hiking around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine guide page.
The region's attractions, which include historical sites and natural landscapes, are generally enjoyable from spring through autumn when the weather is mild and conducive for exploring. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
While not strictly 'hidden,' the detailed history and natural classification of the Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, with its ancient mills and Joan of Arc connection, offers a deeper exploration beyond typical tourist spots. Its ZNIEFF classification highlights its unique ecological value.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The Courtineau Valley is often praised for its scenic road and unique troglodyte dwellings. Crissay-sur-Manse Village is frequently highlighted as a beautiful and charming village to explore.
Yes, several circular walking routes are available. For example, the 'Le Louroux loop - Natural area of the Louroux pond' is a circular trail. Another option is the 'Étang de Comare loop from Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois'. You can explore more circular routes and their details on the Hiking around Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine guide page.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: