Attractions and Places To See around Houssay - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around Houssay include a variety of historical sites, settlements, and viewpoints. This region offers 16 distinct places to explore, ranging from ancient castles to unique architectural villages. The landscape is characterized by its historical significance and diverse man-made structures. Visitors can discover a blend of medieval and Renaissance influences across the area.
Best attractions and places to see around Houssay
- The most popular attractions is Lavardin, a settlement known for its blend of medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architectural styles. It features the remains of a castle with a 26-meter high tower and the Saint-Genest church, noted for its colorful paintings.
- Another must-see spot is Saint-Georges Gate, Vendôme, a historical site marking the southern entrance to Vendôme. Its construction dates from the 14th century, with later additions including machicolations, medallions, and ornamental sculptures visible from the bridge.
- Visitors also love Château de Montoire, a ruined castle. These remains of an 11th-century fortress offer views of the Loir and the town of Montoire-sur-le-Loir from the hilltop.
- Houssay is known for its historical sites, unique settlements, and scenic viewpoints. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient ruins and architectural marvels.
- The attractions around Houssay are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Lavardin
Highlight • Settlement
Just opposite you will find a café-bakery, carved into the stone, which serves delicious ice cream. You won't be able to miss the remains of the castle and its 26 meter high tower. Note that it is possible to pitch your tent on the banks of the Loir, at the bottom of the village. The spot is very pleasant.
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Château de Lavardin
Highlight • Castle
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Saint-Rimay Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
Fin 1942 ou début 1943, le tunnel est fortifié par l'organisation Todt2 avec l'installation de portes blindées (encore visibles de nos jours)3, de deux blockhaus (toujours en place) à l'entrée Nord et de bunkers à proximité et de plusieurs batteries antiaériennes disséminées dans les alentours, sur les hauteurs de Saint-Rimay. Un train bureau aménagé pourvu de moyens de transmission y séjourna de longs mois ainsi qu'une petite garnison. À 800 mètres du tunnel, il est possible de trouver les restes des installations électriques et du central téléphonique directement relié à Berlin. Le tunnel devait abriter le Wolfsschlucht III (« gorge ou ravin du loup ») ou W3, un des vingt Führerhauptquartiere, les quartiers généraux du Führer4,5, disséminés en Allemagne et en Europe occupée, mais qui finalement n'y sera jamais installé (le nom du site reprenait le thème du loup cher à Hitler, il existait un Wolfsschlucht I situé en Belgique au Brûly-de-Pesche près de Couvin d'où Hitler supervisa une partie de la bataille de France en juin 1940 et un Wolfsschlucht II, en France, à Margival dans l'Aisne, où Hitler se rendit une fois en juin 1944, dix jours après le débarquement allié en Normandie).
Toutes ces installations défensives autour du tunnel furent cependant inutiles car le site, peut-être à cause de son armement dissuasif, n'a jamais subi la moindre attaque aérienne.
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Saint-Georges Gate, Vendôme
Highlight • Historical Site
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View of Vendôme
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
With its orientation table, this bucolic viewpoint offers a view of Vendôme in its entirety, with the abbey prominently displayed in the foreground of the landscape. You can rest here to recharge your batteries and eat. Come during the week when it's less crowded.
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This seems to be a really nice spot. Saved! ;-)
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A good viewpoint from which to rest, eat, drink, and enjoy the landscape, because few tourists go there during the week.
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Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Lavardin is a very pretty little town, where medieval, Renaissance and troglodyte styles mix. The Saint-Genest church is particularly beautiful, with its colorful paintings. Concerts take place there in summer. Just opposite you will find a café-bakery, carved into the stone, which serves delicious ice cream. You won't be able to miss the remains of the castle and its 26 meter high tower. Note that it is possible to pitch your tent on the banks of the Loir, at the bottom of the village. The spot is very pleasant.
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Château de Lavardin is a ruined castle dating from the 11th century. You can explore the remains of the fortress, including the dungeons, towers and chapel, and enjoy panoramic views of the Loir Valley. The castle is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and the entrance fee is 4 euros for adults and 1.5 euros for children under 14 years old. You can also visit the medieval village of Lavardin, classified among the most beautiful villages in France.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Houssay?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Saint-Georges Gate, Vendôme, a 14th-century entrance to Vendôme with Renaissance additions. Another significant site is the Château de Montoire, the ruins of an 11th-century fortress offering views of the Loir. Don't miss Lavardin, a settlement with medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architecture, including the remains of a castle and the Saint-Genest church.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Houssay?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Lavardin is a charming village with a castle and church that families can explore. The Saint-Georges Gate, Vendôme offers an interesting historical stop. Additionally, the View of Vendôme provides a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy the scenery with children.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Houssay?
For a great panoramic view, head to the View of Vendôme, which offers breathtaking vistas of the town and its abbey. The ruins of Château de Montoire also provide excellent views of the Loir river and Montoire-sur-le-Loir from its hilltop location.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Houssay is great for outdoor activities. You can find numerous running, cycling, and hiking routes. For example, there's a 'Trail of the Castles' hiking route, and various cycling loops like the 'Montoire-sur-le-Loir – Sport 41 Cycles loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Houssay, Running Trails around Houssay, and Cycling around Houssay.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Houssay?
Yes, there are easy hiking options. For instance, the 'Lavardin – Lavardin loop from Lavardin' is an easy 2.5 km trail. You can find more beginner-friendly routes and detailed information in the Hiking around Houssay guide.
What is the best time to visit the attractions around Houssay?
The region is generally pleasant to visit from spring to autumn. During summer, Lavardin hosts concerts in its Saint-Genest church, adding to the cultural experience. The weather is typically mild, making it ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Are there any unique or lesser-known historical spots to discover?
Consider visiting the Saint-Rimay Tunnel. This tunnel has a fascinating history related to World War II, having been fortified by the Organisation Todt and intended as a Führer Headquarters. You can still see armored doors and blockhouses today, offering a glimpse into a unique piece of history.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
In Lavardin, there is a café-bakery carved into the stone, which is known for serving delicious ice cream. This provides a convenient and charming spot to refresh yourself while exploring the village.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Houssay?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architectural styles found in places like Lavardin. The historical significance of sites such as the Saint-Georges Gate and the scenic views from locations like the Château de Montoire are also highly rated. The komoot community has shared over 20 photos and given more than 70 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Are there circular walking routes available?
Yes, there are several circular walking routes. For example, the 'Lavardin – Château de Lavardin loop from Lavardin' is a moderate 13 km circular hike. You can find more details and other circular options in the Hiking around Houssay guide.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in the region?
The architecture around Houssay is diverse, showcasing medieval, Renaissance, and even troglodyte styles. Lavardin is a prime example, featuring a mix of these styles in its buildings and the remains of its castle. The Saint-Georges Gate, Vendôme also displays elements from the 14th century with later Renaissance additions.
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