Attractions and places to see around Louans, located in the Indre-et-Loire department of France, offer a blend of historical sites and natural features. The region is part of the Centre-Val de Loire, characterized by its historical context within Touraine. Visitors can explore troglodyte dwellings, fortified priories, and natural areas of ecological interest. The area provides opportunities to discover local history and unique geological formations.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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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
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The Chateau de Louroux, or priory of Louroux, is a fortified priory in the 13th century, dependent on the abbey of Marmoutier. The priory housed the Benedictine monks who had the pond dug to provide them with fish and create a water reserve for their mill. The castle can only be visited from the outside.
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After the construction of Cormery Abbey in 791, the town of Cormery developed around it. Inside the abbey there is a cloister, one of the best preserved refectories in France, and beautiful vaulted rooms.
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A very nice road
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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.
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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.
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Boisbonnard is a fairly attractive ensemble and was extensively altered in 1856. This private castle is an old fortress of which only: - the wide medieval moats in their entirety and which form 2 quadrilaterals and a 3-sided figure - 5 cylindrical towers including the South-East tower pierced with circular loopholes called the “couleuvrine tower”. The surrounding walls disappeared, the eastern ones were pulled down in 1856. Access is controlled by 2 entrance towers, capped with pepper shakers, guarding the wooden footbridge which replaced the drawbridge. A portal with a curved pediment connects them. The enclosure demolished in the last century has retained 3 corner towers. The current castle was built in several stages. The residential building, which dates from the 16th century, had its facades completely redesigned in 1856. Part of it disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century. To the south-west, a main building covered with a 4-pitched roof and presenting stone windows on the ground floor had been lined with another building in 1731; these buildings were demolished in 1979. The outbuildings near the front door were built in Renaissance style around 1856 in place of the old farm buildings. Numerous renovation and restoration works have been carried out since 1994. During the cleaning of the moat an oak door was discovered under the water level. We can assume that there was an underground passage between the castle and the village church or to other undergrounds.
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The region offers a rich history. You can visit the unique Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, the fortified Château du Louroux (exterior visits only), the ancient Cormery Abbey with its cloister and refectory, and the private Boisbonnard Castle, known for its medieval moats and cylindrical towers.
Yes, the Courtineau Valley is renowned for its numerous troglodyte dwellings, which are houses carved directly into the rock. The village of Courtineau itself is composed of these distinctive homes, offering a glimpse into a unique historical way of life.
The Courtineau Valley is a significant natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest. Spanning six kilometers, it features not only troglodyte houses but also water mills and washhouses, all set within a remarkable natural landscape.
Absolutely! The area around Louans is great for cycling. You can find various routes for road cycling, such as the 'Le Louroux Pond and Sorigny Loop' (easy, 43 km) or the more challenging 'Le Louroux - Loches - Preuilly-sur-Claise Loop' (124 km). For gravel biking, consider routes like the 'Pont Girault – Roman bridge loop from Sorigny' (moderate, 33 km). More details can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Louans and Gravel biking around Louans guides.
Yes, there are several running trails available. Popular options include the 'Birds of the Étang du Louroux Trail' (moderate, 5.5 km) and various running loops from nearby towns like Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois or Saint-Branchs. These routes offer a great way to explore the local scenery. Check the Running Trails around Louans guide for more options.
The region is characterized by its valleys, such as the Courtineau Valley, which is a classified natural area. You'll encounter unique geological formations, historical water mills along rivers, and diverse flora and fauna, making it an interesting area for nature enthusiasts.
The Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses offer a fascinating and educational experience for families, allowing children to explore unique dwellings and learn about local history and nature. The natural setting of the valley is also suitable for family walks.
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities around Louans, with mild temperatures ideal for cycling, running, and exploring historical sites. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially during midday.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The unique troglodyte dwellings in the Courtineau Valley are often highlighted, as is the historical significance of sites like Boisbonnard Castle and Cormery Abbey. The tranquil natural settings and opportunities for outdoor exploration are also highly valued.
Within the Courtineau Valley, beyond the troglodyte houses, you can discover the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, which is believed to have been a hermit's refuge in the 14th century. The valley also features several historic water mills, such as the Moulin de la Chaise and the Malicorne mill, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
While some larger towns nearby like Tours are well-connected by public transport, many of the specific attractions around Louans, especially the historical sites and natural areas like the Courtineau Valley, are best accessed by car. Public transport options directly to these sites may be limited, so planning your journey in advance is recommended.
Natural areas like the Courtineau Valley are generally suitable for dog walking, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check specific site regulations before visiting, especially for historical monuments or private properties.


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