The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Châteaudun

Before the 13th century there were two parishes, Saint-Sauveur and Saint-Gilles, in 1300 the bishop of Chartres united them into one by a charter of Berchères, because of the smallness of the two parishes. The church dates from the beginning of the 17th century. Rebuilt on the foundations of an old Romanesque church, its originality comes from its bell tower with saddle roof, its caquetoire and its paneled vault redone in 2003. At the initiative of the Prince Duke of Montmorency-Laval, it has contained the reliquary of Sainte-Félicité since 1838. Saint Félicité, whose relics are in Montigny-le-Gannelon, is a martyr whose life is unknown, whose body was taken from the sacred cemeteries of Rome. We have his body, the skull, the bones of his arms, fingers and feet. They were removed from the Saint-Cyriaque cemetery in 1828 and placed in their respective places on a body artistically modeled in wax and measuring more than 1.40 meters in length. A magnificent chase, of the shape and size of an altar tomb, all furnished with glazing and embellished with gilding received this precious deposit. Pope Leo XII donated it to the Duke of Laval, then Charles X's ambassador to Rome. On his death, he bequeathed it by will to the church of Montigny-le-Gannelon where the old historic castle of Laval-Montmorency is located. The venerated hunt is now placed under the main altar of which it forms the tomb.

Almost nothing is reliably known about the life of Saint George (Saint-GEORGES), to whom the church of Cloyes-sur-le-Loir was dedicated, but the veneration of his person goes back to early Christianity. A martyr identified with George is said to have lived in the third century. However, the legend of St. George as a dragon slayer is well known and widespread; he is usually depicted - in paintings or as a statue - as the conqueror of the monster, often as a knight on horseback. The memorial day of the very popular George - he is, among other things, patron of the English kingdom - in the calendar of saints is April 23rd.

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 Château de Romainville was built in the 19th century in an Anglo-Norman style and is surrounded by lush parkland and a vineyard. You can discover the park and admire the architecture of the castle which was the property of Henry Deutsch de la Meurthe, an aviation pioneer. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the castle and its theatre, which hosts cultural events throughout the year. The Château de Romainville is open to the public from April to October and you can book your visit online. It is an ideal destination for a relaxing and cultural hike surrounded by nature.

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.