Attractions and Places To See around Monts - Top 20

Monts is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Saint-Cyr Castle, known for its magnificent estate. The Saint-Rémi Church showcases a blend of flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Don't miss the historic Château de Candé, famous for hosting the Duke of Windsor's wedding, or the ancient Saint Pierre aux Liens Church, dating back to 1114 with its Romanesque apse and restored fresco. The Old Town itself offers medieval houses and a Renaissance gate.

Yes, Monts offers several natural retreats. You can enjoy the tranquil views from the Public Garden overlooking the Indre river. La Bergeonnerie Lake is perfect for strolls, running, or cycling on its 2.5-kilometer circuit, complete with fitness equipment and play areas. The region is also characterized by the Indre river, historically home to numerous mills, some of which still remain.

Monts and its surroundings are ideal for various outdoor pursuits. You can explore the area on two wheels with options for road cycling or gravel biking, with routes ranging from moderate to difficult. For those who prefer to explore on foot, there are numerous running trails available, offering diverse distances and difficulty levels.

Absolutely. The Saint-Cyr Castle is noted as a family-friendly highlight. La Bergeonnerie Lake provides play areas and a safe circuit for walking or cycling, making it a great spot for families. Additionally, the vast parks of châteaux like Château de Candé offer ample space for children to explore.

Monts has some fascinating sites related to its past infrastructure. You can discover the Old abandoned station at the bottom of the valley, which features a water tank for steam engines, offering a glimpse into railway history. The impressive Viaduct, completed in 1851, is another engineering marvel that carried the Paris-Bordeaux railway line across the Indre valley. The historic Mills of Indre, with seven still remaining from the Middle Ages, also tell a story of the region's industrial past.

The Saint Pierre aux Liens Church is the oldest monument in Monts, first cited in 1114. It belonged to the monks of the Abbey of St-Julien de Tours and retains its original 12th-century bedside (chevet). A notable feature is its Romanesque apse, which houses a beautifully restored fresco depicting God in majesty, offering a deep dive into the region's religious heritage.

Monts is ideally situated for exploring the renowned châteaux of the Loire Valley. Nearby, you can visit Château de Villandry, famous for its magnificent gardens, or the beautiful Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other accessible châteaux include the medieval-Renaissance Château de Langeais and the imposing Château d'Ussé.

Monts hosts weekly markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering a chance to experience local life and find regional products. If you're looking for more market experiences, nearby towns such as Artannes-sur-Indre, Montbazon, and Joué-lès-Tours also have their own market days.

The Monument to Admiral Peyron is a statue sculpted by Henri Georget in 1904, located in the town hall square. It honors Admiral Peyron, a distinguished naval officer born in Marines in 1823, who rose through the ranks to become a vice-admiral and even a minister. The monument's design, with its wave-like base and ship sterns, symbolizes his illustrious naval career.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. Highlights like the Old abandoned station at the bottom of the valley are noted as 'great discoveries' for their unique historical railway infrastructure hidden among trees. The Saint-Cyr Castle is praised for its 'magnificent estate' and quiet countryside setting, offering a peaceful experience.

Yes, in addition to the Saint-Rémi Church in Monts, you can also visit the imposing Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church of Chaumont-en-Vexin. This 16th-century church is one of the most significant religious buildings in the French Vexin region, known for its stylistic homogeneity and peaceful square overlooking the town's rooftops.