The best running trails around Châteaudun

This small village (Wikipedia lists only 148 inhabitants at the beginning of 2022) has a truly grand name: Saint Christopher. The choice of this patron saint is very fitting for a place located on the banks of a river. According to tradition, Christopher was a giant who carried people across a river. One day, a child (who was Jesus, though he didn't know it) called to him, and he took the child on his shoulders and waded through the water. Hence his name, which means "Christ-bearer."

This beautiful Romanesque church from the 12th and 13th centuries is easily remarkable thanks to its majestic 15th century bell tower topped by a large stone spire with edges decorated with kale which overlooks the town from around fifty meters high. A beautiful Romanesque portal from the 13th century with a trefoiled arch and deep arches sculpted with geometric patterns provides access to the church. The vaults of the nave fall on columns decorated with grotesques and the south aisle opens onto a richly decorated side chapel from the 16th century. The choir is lit by beautiful stained glass windows dating from the Renaissance, some of which tell the story of Saint Anne. The bell tower is sparkling since its recent restoration.

The construction of the old Madeleine abbey dates back to the middle of the 12th century. This large Romanesque building has undergone successive alterations as well as a long restoration following a fire in 1940 but it remains the largest and most majestic religious building in the city. The now stripped interior appearance of the building only reinforces the majesty of the place. The beautiful south portal remained hidden behind the medieval city wall for a long time before being rediscovered at the end of the 19th century. Unlike the north facade, it has retained magnificent sculpted arches from the 12th century. The choir was rebuilt in the 16th century without the large ambulatory which previously existed but you can still admire a Renaissance tomb from the beginning of the 16th century in the apse.

The Château de Mémillon is part of a private domain of 50 hectares, housing a Second Empire building, a 15th and 16th century manor house and the ruins of the 17th century Château de Saveuse. You can discover the wooded park, admire the architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this place.

The Château de Moléans is a castle which extends from the 16th century to the 19th century. You can admire the exterior of the castle which includes a terrace overlooking the Conie valley, a wing of outbuildings inspired by the Château de Fleury-en-Bière, two Louis XIII pavilions and 19th century additions. Be sure to appreciate it as you pass by.

If you are looking for a hiking destination combining history, nature and romance, you can visit the Château de Mémillon. This 50-hectare private estate is home to a Second Empire building, a 15th and 16th century manor house and the ruins of the 17th century Saveuse castle. You can discover the wooded park, admire the architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this place. The castle is only open to the public during Heritage Days, so time your visit accordingly. You will not regret having discovered this hidden gem of Perche.

The castle of Moléans is a castle which extends from the 16th to the 19th century. You can admire the exterior of the castle which includes a terrace overlooking the Conie valley, a wing of outbuildings inspired by the castle of Fleury-en-Bière, two Louis XIII pavilions and additions from the 19th century. The castle is open from July 1 to September 3, and you can book a guided tour in French for a small fee. The Château de Moléans is a piece of French architectural history not to be missed.

The bridge that crosses the Loir at Montigny-le-Gannelon offers a beautiful viewpoint below the castle. The splendid facades of this Renaissance-style building are clearly visible. A feast for the eyes.