Attractions and Places To See around Pré-Saint-Martin - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Pré-Saint-Martin include a mix of local historical sites and broader regional landmarks. This small rural commune in the Eure-et-Loir department of France offers a quiet charm, with local features like the 16th-century Église Saint-Martin and the ancient Chemin des Vaches. While the commune itself provides a serene environment, more extensive points of interest are found within the surrounding Eure-et-Loir department. Visitors can explore a variety of historical, cultural, and natural sites in the…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Bonneval
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Porte de Boisville
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Alluyes Castle
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Little Bridge of Vouvray
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Saint-Étienne Church of Meslay-le-Vidame
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This church in Meslay-Le-Vidame, whose architecture reflects the formal language of antiquity, was dedicated to the patron saint of Saint Etienne. He was one of the first seven deacons of the original Jerusalem church and, according to the biblical accounts in the New Testament, the first martyr (martyr) of early Christianity. The church commemorates his death on Boxing Day, December 26th. As the Acts of the Apostles recounts: When Stephen recounted his vision of the open heavens, "And he, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Chapter 7, Verse 55), the people were so outraged that they drove him out of the city and stoned him.
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Porte de Boisville Its ogival portal opens into a thick quadrangular massif where there was a room for operating the portcullis. We can still see the groove in the thickness of the walls. On the left and right two small funnel-shaped spaces allowed the defenders to observe and repel the enemies who appeared on the bridge. The gate was topped by a building serving as a guardhouse which was demolished in 1761. The guarding of these doors and their keys was in the troubled times of the Hundred Years' War the subject of concern for the inhabitants and also a source of quarrels and trials between the city and the abbey. This gate is preceded by a bridge of 5 stone arches, the one adjoining the gate was built in 1774 and replaced a drawbridge which defended the entrance.
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Bonneval, nicknamed the little Venice of Beauce
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Bonneval is a beautiful town with still-present fortifications. The old town is surrounded by a wall at the foot of which flows the Loir. This city retains many period buildings such as the Saint-Roch Gate and the King's Tower. Among its must-see attractions, the city also includes the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire, many times destroyed and rebuilt during wars.
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This castle dates back to the 12th century, although some parts were added later. Its imposing tower was present from the beginning. As for the Saint Nicholas chapel, it is known for its Gothic decorations.
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The lordship of Alluyes was, in the Middle Ages, the first of the five baronies of Perche-Gouêt. The keep dates from the 12th century. Between the fortified gate and the dungeon rises the old Saint-Nicolas chapel ending in a semi-circular apse. It was originally lit by four round arched windows. A wide cart door was cut into the west wall when the chapel was converted into a barn. The framework was redone at the end of the 15th and the beginning of the 16th century. The chapel received a shingled vault on which paintings were executed. source: monumentum
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This church with the appearance of an ancient temple is a real curiosity that you must visit
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Building created by a "visionary" architect, Nicolas Jacques Antoine Vestier, on the site of an earlier building. The building is preceded by a peristyle supported by six pyramidal pilasters which support a large frieze continuing around the church. The front of the peristyle is surmounted by a pediment containing an archivolt. Behind the chevet, the tower serves as a steeple. The church is, on the outside, built on a rectangular plan. Inside, the apse ends in a circular section vaulted in a dome. The ornamentation of the church is represented by the furniture, in harmony with the construction. Towards the end of the 19th century, the interior surfaces were coated with a decal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of attractions can I find around Pré-Saint-Martin?
While Pré-Saint-Martin itself offers a quiet, rural charm with local landmarks like the 16th-century Église Saint-Martin and the ancient Chemin des Vaches, the broader Eure-et-Loir department provides a variety of historical, cultural, and natural sites. You can explore charming towns, historical castles, and natural landscapes.
What are some historical sites to visit near Pré-Saint-Martin?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the charming town of Bonneval, known for its fortifications and the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire. Another notable historical site is the Porte de Boisville, a vestige marking the entry into Bonneval. Further afield, the magnificent Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic Alluyes Castle are also worth exploring.
Are there any natural features or outdoor spots worth visiting?
Yes, the area offers several natural spots. The Little Bridge of Vouvray is a picturesque location crossing the Dormouse river, perfect for pedestrians and cyclists, and suitable for picnics. The wider Eure-et-Loir department includes the Perche Region, known for its rolling hills and ancient forests, ideal for nature lovers.
What makes Bonneval a popular destination?
Bonneval, often called the "Little Venice of Beauce," is popular for its well-preserved fortifications, period buildings, and canals. Visitors appreciate its historical charm, including the Saint-Roch Gate, the King's Tower, and the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire.
Are there cycling routes near Pré-Saint-Martin?
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities in the area. You can find various routes, including sections of the Véloscénie in the broader Eure-et-Loir department. For specific routes around Pré-Saint-Martin, explore options like the "Bonneval – Little Bridge of Vouvray loop" or the "Porte de Boisville – Bonneval loop." You can find more details and routes on the Cycling around Pré-Saint-Martin guide.
Can I find hiking or running trails in the area?
Absolutely. The Perche Region, with its ancient forests and rolling hills, is excellent for hiking. For running, you can find trails such as the "Church of Bonneval – Little Bridge of Vouvray loop" or the "Running loop from Bronville." More detailed information on routes is available in the Running Trails around Pré-Saint-Martin guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Pré-Saint-Martin?
Yes, families can enjoy several spots. The Little Bridge of Vouvray is a pleasant place for a family picnic. Exploring the charming streets and canals of Bonneval can also be an engaging activity for all ages. The broader Eure-et-Loir department also offers opportunities for hot air balloon rides, which can be a memorable family experience.
What is the significance of the Chemin des Vaches?
The Chemin des Vaches, or "cow path," is an ancient Roman road that traverses Pré-Saint-Martin from east to west. Historically, it connected Sens to Le Mans, serving as an important route. Today, it represents a piece of the commune's long history and rural character.
What is unique about the Saint-Étienne Church of Meslay-le-Vidame?
The Saint-Étienne Church of Meslay-le-Vidame is a true curiosity due to its unique architecture. Designed by Nicolas Jacques Antoine Vestier, it features a peristyle supported by six pyramidal pilasters and an appearance resembling an ancient temple, making it stand out among traditional churches.
Where can I experience the local charm of the Eure-et-Loir region?
To experience the local charm, visit the small rural commune of Pré-Saint-Martin itself for its serene environment. Explore the local markets in the region to discover specialties like goat cheese and artisanal bread. The picturesque villages and natural landscapes of the Perche Region also offer an authentic taste of the area.
When is the best time to visit Pré-Saint-Martin for outdoor activities?
The Eure-et-Loir region, including Pré-Saint-Martin, is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, making it ideal for cycling, hiking, and exploring the natural landscapes.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known attractions in the area?
Beyond the major landmarks, the quiet, rural charm of Pré-Saint-Martin itself, with its dispersed habitat and the ancient Chemin des Vaches, can be considered a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility. The various châteaux scattered throughout the Eure-et-Loir department, beyond the more famous ones, also offer unique historical insights away from larger crowds.
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