The best walks and hikes around Lisle

The Château de Meslay is an elegant residence located in Meslay, in the Loir-et-Cher region, approximately 5 km from Vendôme, France. It is a historic monument built in 1732 by the architect Jules Michel Hardouin, nephew of the famous Hardouin-Mansart. It was built on the site of an earlier fortified castle that had hosted Henry IV in 1589. This château is unique because it has remained in the same family for 11 generations. The current owners, the Boisfleury family, worked to have it listed as a Historic Monument in 2016 and to open it to the public in 2019.

A truly beautiful château

Renay Castle is now in ruins. It was built in the 15th century and belonged to different noble families over the centuries, such as the Courcillons, the Rochambeaus, and the Raguet Lépines. The castle was partially registered as a historic monument in 1971, but it has not been well maintained by its successive owners. The last owner is Sylvain Durand, a dealer and collector who made his fortune with the paintings of Fernand Léger. He died in 2018 and his furniture and collection were sold at auction. The castle has suffered from a lack of maintenance and preservation.

The feudal castle of Fréteval is a castle which dates from the 11th century. You can explore the ruins of the fortress, which covers 4.5 hectares and has three lines of defense. You will also be able to see the keep, one of the oldest circular stone towers in France, built of flint. The castle was a strategic location in the conflicts between the Plantagenet kings and the kings of France. The information panels will allow you to learn more about its history. The feudal castle of Fréteval is a remarkable place that will transport you to the Middle Ages.

This place is ideal for running along the river that gave its name to the area. You will leave from the village of Pezou, which has a beautiful church dating from the 12th century, and follow paths that will take you through fields, forests and hills. This route will delight your senses and make you appreciate the beauty of nature.

The Mouline lake is a former quarry transformed into a fishing lake. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural environment by walking around the lake, where you will find facilities such as tables, pit toilets and pontoons. The Mouline lake is a hidden gem that will allow you to feel closer to nature.

Renay Castle is now in ruins. It was built in the 15th century and belonged to different noble families over the centuries, such as the Courcillons, the Rochambeaus, and the Raguet Lépines. The castle was partially registered as a historic monument in 1971, but it has not been well maintained by its successive owners. The last owner is Sylvain Durand, a dealer and collector who made his fortune with the paintings of Fernand Léger. He died in 2018 and his furniture and collection were sold at auction. The castle has suffered from a lack of maintenance and preservation, and has been damaged by vandalism and natural disasters. The tower, courtyards, chapel and chimneys are still visible, but most of the buildings are in a state of disrepair. It is a shame that such historical and architectural heritage is in such a state of disrepair, but the visit remains fascinating.

If you are interested in 15th century history and architecture, you should visit the Manoir du Tertre in Lignières, a manor which was once a feudal stronghold of the canons of Vendôme. You can walk around the mansion and admire the courtyards, towers, chapel and chimneys that have been preserved from the original construction. You will also be able to discover the families who owned the manor over the centuries, such as the Illiers des Radrets and the Plessis-d'Échelles. You can book a guided tour with one of the current owners, who will tell you more about the history and legends of this place. You will need to book in advance, as the manor is not open to the public all year round.