Attractions and Places To See around Cléry-Saint-André - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cléry-Saint-André offer a blend of historical, cultural, and natural features. Situated between the Sologne and Val de Loire regions, the area is characterized by its proximity to the Loire River and the Ardoux River. It is also part of the Orléans wine-growing area, known for its winemaking tradition. This region provides opportunities to explore historical sites, natural reserves, and scenic landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Cléry-Saint-André
- The most popular attractions is Confluence of the Loire and the Loiret, a river that encompasses a nature reserve. This site is home to a variety of flora and fauna, located at the point of Courpain where the Loiret flows into the Loire.
- Another must-see spot is Meung-sur-Loire, a settlement on the right bank of the Loire River. Its medieval town, winding streets, and historical monuments invite exploration, including a notable château-park.
- Visitors also love Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry, a flamboyant Gothic historical site. This 15th-century basilica holds historical importance as a pilgrimage site and the chosen burial place of King Louis XI.
- Cléry-Saint-André is known for its historical sites, natural reserves, and charming settlements. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including options for hiking and cycling.
- The attractions around Cléry-Saint-André are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 30 photos shared.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Europe Bridge
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Confluence of the Loire and the Loiret
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Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry
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Moulin des Béchets
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Meung-sur-Loire
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Tips from the Community
Greenway along the Loire. Rolling track with tarmac, dirt, or white gravel covering depending on the section. Allows you to be away from traffic with little shared road.
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A beautiful design - impressive and a great view!
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A beautiful little town with wine, market and tradition
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Located between Orléans and Chambord, in the Valley of the Kings, the Notre-Dame de Cléry Basilica has stood in the heart of the town of Cléry-Saint-André since the 15th century. After several constructions and demolitions, the current Basilica in flamboyant Gothic style was built during the 15th century, under Charles VII and Louis XI. The latter chose it as the place of his final rest. In 1280, the discovery of a statue of the Virgin was the beginning of what would become the Basilica of Cléry Saint-André. In a small chapel where the statue is installed, pilgrims flock to pray before the Virgin of Cléry, invested with miraculous powers. In 1302, Simon de Melun, Lord of the Hall in Cléry, founded a chapter of canons and at the same time, the collegiate church of Cléry. A few years later, Philippe Le Bel undertook the construction of a larger church. It was Philippe VI of Valois who laid the first stone of the building in 1339 while the pilgrimage grew. In the midst of the Hundred Years' War, the English ravaged the collegiate church, leaving only the bell tower as the only vestige. Dunois, Lord of Beaugency, initiated the reconstruction of the collegiate church in 1444. This reconstruction is the fruit of the desire of the kings of France to honor the statue of the Virgin Mary. From 1459, Louis Since 1894, it has had the title of Basilica. Raised on a Latin cross plan, the exterior is punctuated by a series of buttresses, flying buttresses and high windows whose regularity is only disturbed by the original bell tower and a few chapels. Even today, the Basilica welcomes many pilgrims who come to pay their respects to the famous statue. During your visit, discover the film “Basilica” broadcast continuously in the old sacristy. It reveals the inaccessible places of the building but above all, the great beauty of its architecture and the emotion it provides. All year round: guided tour for groups by reservation only.
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Super little town with its Château-park!
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Known to be the most picturesque mill in the Loiret, the stone arch which houses the Ferris wheel is superb. It was a prosperous grist mill until the First World War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Cléry-Saint-André?
You can visit the Confluence of the Loire and the Loiret, a nature reserve rich in diverse flora and fauna where the Loiret flows into the Loire. The area also offers scenic walks along the Ardoux River, including the 'Water Route' with its wells and wash houses, and the surrounding Sologne landscapes.
Are there historical sites to visit in Cléry-Saint-André?
Yes, the most prominent historical site is the Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry, a magnificent 15th-century flamboyant Gothic basilica and the burial place of King Louis XI. You can also see the picturesque Moulin des Béchets, a historic wheat mill.
What cycling opportunities are available near Cléry-Saint-André?
Cléry-Saint-André is part of the 'Loire à Vélo' cycling route, a 900km path along the Loire River. You can also enjoy the Greenway along the Loire, a rolling track suitable for cycling away from traffic. For specific routes, explore the Cycling around Cléry-Saint-André guide, which includes routes like 'On the lands of Louis XI'.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
Many attractions are suitable for families. The Confluence of the Loire and the Loiret offers a natural setting for exploration, and the Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry provides an engaging historical experience. The nearby town of Meung-sur-Loire with its medieval charm and château-park is also a great family option.
What kind of walks or hikes can I find around Cléry-Saint-André?
The Sologne landscapes surrounding Cléry-Saint-André offer various walks and hikes, including a trail from Cléry to the Butte des Élus, a Gaulish tumulus. You can also find running trails in the area; check the Running Trails around Cléry-Saint-André guide for options like 'The Loire – Basilica of Cléry-Saint-André loop'.
Is there a specific wine region near Cléry-Saint-André?
Yes, Cléry-Saint-André is located in the heart of the Orléans Wine-Growing Area, on the left bank of the Loire River. This region boasts two protected designations of origin (AOC): Orléans and Orléans-Cléry, with a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times.
What is the best time of year to visit Cléry-Saint-André for outdoor activities?
While not explicitly stated, the region's focus on cycling, walking, and natural reserves suggests that spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the landscapes and vineyards.
Are there any wheelchair accessible attractions?
The Europe Bridge, connecting Orléans to the Loire, is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering wide cycle paths separated from motorized traffic.
What is unique about the Moulin des Béchets?
The Moulin des Béchets is known as one of the most picturesque mills in the Loiret, featuring a superb stone arch that houses its Ferris wheel. It operated as a successful wheat mill until World War I.
What can I expect when visiting Meung-sur-Loire?
Meung-sur-Loire is a charming medieval town on the right bank of the Loire River. You can stroll through its winding streets, explore historical monuments, and visit its notable château-park.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Cléry-Saint-André?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the vicinity. You can find various routes in the MTB Trails around Cléry-Saint-André guide, including routes like 'Meung-sur-Loire West – The Loire loop'.
What is the significance of the Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry?
The Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Cléry is historically significant as a 15th-century flamboyant Gothic masterpiece, built under Charles VII and Louis XI. It served as a major pilgrimage site and was chosen by King Louis XI as his final resting place.
Are there any other notable towns or attractions nearby that are easy to reach?
Beyond Cléry-Saint-André, you can easily visit other charming towns like Meung-sur-Loire and Beaugency, both known for their historical architecture. The extensive Parc Floral de la Source in Orléans and the renowned Château de Chambord are also within reach.
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