Attractions and Places To See around Neuil - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Neuil include a variety of historical landmarks, natural sites, and cultural points of interest within the Indre-et-Loire department of central France. This commune in the Centre-Loire Valley region offers diverse landscapes, from river valleys to extensive forest complexes. The area is characterized by its rich heritage and unique geological features, providing a range of exploration opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Neuil
- The most popular attraction is Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, a historical site that features numerous troglodyte dwellings, water mills, and washhouses. It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest due to its remarkable character.
- Another must-see spot is L'Islette Castle, a 16th-century Renaissance castle nestled by the Indre River. Visitors can explore the castle's interior and exterior, which has been maintained in perfect condition since its completion around 1530.
- Visitors also love Crissay-sur-Manse Village, a settlement recognized as one of France's "Most Beautiful Villages." It features white tufa houses, the ruins of a 15th-century castle, and a 16th-century church.
- Neuil is known for its historical sites, castles, and natural landscapes. The region offers a diverse range of attractions to explore, from ancient fortresses to picturesque villages and unique valleys.
- The attractions around Neuil are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 260 upvotes and over 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
L'Islette Castle
Highlight • Castle
Less renowned than the surrounding Loire Valley châteaux, the Château de l'Islette can be visited from early May to late September, both inside and out. It is also possible to rent boats to cruise the Indre River or participate in an escape game inside the château.
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Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses
Highlight • Historical Site
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 Castle
Highlight • Castle
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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Courtineau Valley
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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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Azay-le-Rideau Moated Castle
Highlight • Castle
Azay-le-Rideau, which seems to rest on the surface of the water, is for many the most beautiful castle in the Loire.
The last restoration was completed in 2017, visits are now possible all year round.
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The origins of the castle Do you know the story of this castle that stands on a small island in the Indre? Built during the reign of Francis I by Gilles Berthelot, the king's financier, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is a subtle combination of French traditions and innovative Italian decorations. It became an icon of the new architecture in the Loire Valley in the 16th century and is today considered one of the jewels of the architecture of the first French Renaissance. More information on https://www.azay-le-rideau.fr/decouvrir/histoire-du-chateau
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In the heart of Touraine, in an enchanting setting where the delicate white of the tuffeau stone and the ever-changing green of the Indre River blend harmoniously, L'Islette welcomes you. The Renaissance château, nestled in the arms of the Indre River, is now home to the current owners. They are happy to share their home with visitors and show them the rooms currently occupied. In this way, they combine history and modernity to create a 21st-century château. L'Islette, where Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin were frequent guests and sheltered their passionate love life, invites you to be swept away by the romantic charm of the Indre Valley. Source: https://www.chateaudelislette.fr/
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The circuit itself is certainly nice to cycle. Perhaps better to park a few kilometres further on at Château de l'Islette if you drive here. Parking is free there.
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Nice to visit if you don't have much time to visit other castles in the Loire region. There are certainly some that are more beautiful to see, have nicer gardens and also show more history on the inside. You can better go to Château de Villandry. There you really get more value for your money.
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Small castle right on the Indre. The owner charges admission for the castle and the grounds. According to reviews, it's worth it.
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Inhabited but still accessible castle with a beautiful park for a picnic.
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part-time inhabited castle. Very attractive and carefully restored. Beautiful garden.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Neuil?
The area around Neuil is rich in history. You can explore the fascinating Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, which feature dwellings carved into rock, old water mills, and the unique chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette. Additionally, the Crissay-sur-Manse Village, recognized as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages,' offers a glimpse into traditional French life with its white tufa houses and 16th-century church.
Are there any notable castles in the vicinity of Neuil?
Yes, the region is famous for its châteaux. Just 11 km from Neuil, you'll find the beautiful Château d'Azay-le-Rideau. Another significant castle is L'Islette Castle, a 16th-century Renaissance castle nestled by the Indre River, known for its well-preserved interior and exterior. Other nearby castles include Château du Rivau (16 km), Château d'Ussé (19 km), and Château de Langeais (19 km). You can also visit Boisbonnard Castle, an ancient fortress with medieval moats and cylindrical towers.
What natural features can I explore around Neuil?
Neuil offers several natural attractions. The Wood of the Étangs is located within Neuil itself, providing a serene environment. Part of Neuil is also situated within the extensive Complexe forestier de Chinon, landes du Ruchard, a Natura 2000 site known for its acidic wet heathlands. The Courtineau Valley is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest due to its remarkable character.
Are there hiking opportunities near Neuil's attractions?
Absolutely! The region around Neuil is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including a 7.3 km easy loop from Crissay-sur-Manse Village. For more options, explore the dedicated hiking guide for the area: Hiking around Neuil.
What kind of outdoor activities are available in the Neuil area?
Beyond hiking, the Neuil area is well-suited for cycling and gravel biking. You can find numerous routes that take you through scenic landscapes and past historical sites. For detailed routes, check out the guides for Cycling around Neuil and Gravel biking around Neuil.
Is Neuil suitable for family-friendly activities?
Yes, Neuil and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. L'Islette Castle is a great choice, where families can explore the castle and its grounds, and even rent boats to cruise the Indre River or participate in an escape game. The charming Crissay-sur-Manse Village also provides a pleasant outing for all ages.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Neuil?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical richness and natural beauty. The unique troglodyte dwellings in Courtineau Valley are a highlight, offering a fascinating historical experience. The well-preserved architecture of castles like L'Islette Castle and the picturesque charm of Crissay-sur-Manse Village are also highly rated, with many visitors sharing photos and upvotes for these spots.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in the Neuil area?
Beyond the castles and villages, you can visit the Eglise paroissiale Saint-Perpet in Neuil itself, a historical monument. The nearby village of Tavant (10 km) is known for the murals in its church, offering a unique artistic and historical insight. Additionally, exploring the local markets in towns like Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine (Fridays) and Azay-le-Rideau (Wednesdays and Saturdays) provides an authentic cultural experience with local produce and crafts.
When is the best time to visit Neuil for outdoor activities and sightseeing?
The Centre-Loire Valley region generally enjoys pleasant weather from spring to early autumn, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities and exploring attractions. Spring (April-May) offers blooming gardens and comfortable temperatures, while summer (June-August) is perfect for longer days and river activities. Early autumn (September-October) brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds.
Are there any notable gardens to visit near Neuil?
Yes, the region is home to several remarkable gardens. Les jardins de la Chatonnière is about 11 km away, and the world-renowned Les jardins du château de Villandry, famous for its Renaissance gardens, is approximately 19 km from Neuil. These gardens offer stunning landscapes and are perfect for a leisurely visit.
Can I find accommodation options in or near Neuil?
While specific accommodation details are not provided here, Neuil and the surrounding towns in the Indre-et-Loire department offer various lodging options, including guesthouses, hotels, and holiday rentals, suitable for different budgets and preferences. It is advisable to check local booking platforms for availability.
Most popular attractions around Neuil
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