Attractions and Places To See around Rilly-Sur-Vienne - Top 9
Attractions and places to see around Rilly-Sur-Vienne offer a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences within the Indre-et-Loire department of France. This region serves as a base for exploring the Touraine and Poitou areas, featuring picturesque landscapes and significant historical sites. Visitors can discover unique natural areas like the Courtineau Valley, known for its troglodyte dwellings and water mills. The area provides diverse points of interest, from ancient ruins to charming villages.
Best attractions and places to…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Courtineau Valley
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Crissay-sur-Manse Village
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Saint-Maurice Church of L'Île-Bouchard
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Ruins of the Collegiate Church and Château of Les Roches Tranchelion
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L'Île-Bouchard Bridge over the Vienne
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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)
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Ruins worth the detour!
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Ruins of two buildings. The castle, dating from the 15th century, only has scattered remains, while the collegiate church, built in the 16th century, has preserved majestic ruins.
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L'Île-Bouchard is a commune made up of two suburbs, Saint Maurice and Saint Gilles, each on opposite sides of the Vienne. The two suburbs are connected by a bridge and separated by the island which gives its name to the city - Île-Bouchard.
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L'Île-Bouchard has a unique configuration as it consists of two suburbs, Saint Maurice and Saint Gilles, after which the two churches are named, are respectively on the left and right banks of the Vienne, connected by a bridge and or L' Île, the cradle of the city. Source: https://nl.frwiki.wiki/wiki/L%27%C3%8Ele-Bouchard
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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.
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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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A nice little village!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique historical sites can I explore around Rilly-sur-Vienne?
You can visit the Ruins of the Collegiate Church and Château of Les Roches Tranchelion, which feature scattered remains of a 15th-century castle and majestic ruins of a 16th-century collegiate church. Additionally, the Crissay-sur-Manse Village, designated one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France," offers historical stone houses and a 16th-century church.
Where can I experience the natural beauty of the region?
The Courtineau Valley is a significant natural area of ecological interest, stretching six kilometers. It's known for its unique landscape, numerous troglodyte dwellings, water mills, and washhouses. The Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, is also found here.
Are there any charming villages worth visiting nearby?
Yes, Crissay-sur-Manse Village is a must-see. It's recognized as one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France" and features picturesque stone houses, a historic church, and a washhouse, all set in the heart of Touraine.
What kind of castles can I visit in the vicinity of Rilly-sur-Vienne?
Beyond the Ruins of the Collegiate Church and Château of Les Roches Tranchelion, the region boasts several impressive castles. You can explore the historic buildings and remarkable gardens of Château du Rivau, the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, or the medieval Château de Chinon, which also offers an impressive town center.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Rilly-sur-Vienne?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Crissay-sur-Manse Village is praised for its charm and well-preserved architecture. The Ruins of the Collegiate Church and Château of Les Roches Tranchelion are considered 'worth the detour' for their majestic remains. The Courtineau Valley is valued for its unique troglodyte houses and scenic environment.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking around Rilly-sur-Vienne?
Yes, the region offers various walking opportunities. The Courtineau Valley itself provides a scenic environment for walks, allowing you to discover troglodyte dwellings and old mills. For more structured routes, you can explore the running trails around Rilly-sur-Vienne, many of which are suitable for walking.
Can I find routes for cycling or mountain biking in the area?
Absolutely. The Rilly-sur-Vienne area is well-suited for cycling. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, such as those listed in the MTB Trails around Rilly-sur-Vienne guide. For gravel biking, explore options like the 'View of Château de Chinon – Chinon Fortress loop' in the Gravel biking around Rilly-sur-Vienne guide.
Where can I see troglodyte dwellings?
The Courtineau Valley is particularly known for its numerous troglodyte dwellings. The village of Courtineau itself is made up of these unique rock-carved houses, offering a fascinating glimpse into historical living.
Are there any notable religious sites or churches to visit?
Yes, in the nearby town of L'Île-Bouchard, you can visit the Saint-Maurice Church of L'Île-Bouchard and the Saint-Gilles Church. The Courtineau Valley also features the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, which is believed to have sheltered Joan of Arc.
What are some family-friendly attractions in the Rilly-sur-Vienne area?
Families can enjoy exploring the picturesque Crissay-sur-Manse Village with its charming houses. The Saint-Maurice Church of L'Île-Bouchard and the L'Île-Bouchard Bridge over the Vienne are also suitable for family visits. The natural setting of the Courtineau Valley offers an engaging outdoor experience for all ages.
When is the best time to visit Rilly-sur-Vienne for outdoor activities?
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn. These seasons offer mild weather, ideal for exploring the natural areas like the Courtineau Valley, visiting charming villages, and enjoying cycling or walking routes.
Are there any gardens or parks to visit near Rilly-sur-Vienne?
Yes, the Jardin René Boylesve in Descartes, about 18.4 km away, is a notable garden featuring rare and exotic essences, including a rose garden with many old roses. It's built on a former stronghold with visible ruins of a fortified castle. Additionally, the Parc de Richelieu offers natural scenery for visitors.
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