Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois include historical sites and natural features within the Loir Valley. This commune in France is situated in a region known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. The area features medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architectural styles, alongside scenic river valleys. Visitors can explore a mix of ruined castles, historic churches, and unique settlements carved into stone, offering a variety of landmarks around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois
- The most popular attractions is Lavardin, a settlement that mixes medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte styles. It is recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, featuring the Saint-Genest church with its colorful paintings and the remains of an 11th-century castle.
- Another must-see spot is Troglodyte Village of Trôo, a settlement known for its dwellings hollowed out of the cliff. Visitors can explore this unique village, which dominates the Loir Valley and has origins dating back to the medieval era.
- Visitors also love Montoire-sur-le-Loir, a settlement with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. The town features a castle, a church, the chapel of Saint-Gilles, and the convent of the Augustins, offering a glimpse into French history.
- Saint-Martin-Des-Bois is known for its historical sites, settlements, and natural features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to unique troglodyte villages.
- The attractions around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and 25 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 7, 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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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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Château de Montoire
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Montoire-sur-le-Loir
Highlight • Settlement
Discover its castle, its church and the chapel of Saint-Gilles, the convent of the Augustins and immerse yourself in the history of France.
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Troglodyte Village of Trôo
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Tips from the Community
one of the most surprising and charming villages of Loir-et-Cher! Dominating the Loir Valley, Trôo is known for its troglodyte dwellings, hollowed out of the cliff, whose origins date back to the medieval era
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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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Built by the lords of Montoire in the 10th century, the castle and its keep are today in ruins.
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The Château de Montoire is a ruined castle. You can explore the remains of the 11th century fortress, which was once a strategic site during the wars between the kings of France and England. From the top of the hill, you can also admire the view of the Loir and the town of Montoire-sur-le-Loir. The castle is open to the public and is classified as a historic monument. Have a good hike and don’t forget your camera!
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Montloire-sur-le-Loir is a town whose rich history dates back to the 11th century. The territory is dotted with buildings that bear witness to this. Discover its castle, its church and the chapel of Saint-Gilles, the convent of the Augustins and immerse yourself in the history of France.
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Lavardin is the only “Most beautiful village in France” in Loire-et-Cher. The castle overlooks the houses with its 26 meter high keep. The village's streets are a delight with architecture of all kinds, mixing medieval buildings, Renaissance style and troglodyte houses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of the 11th-century Château de Montoire, which offers views of the Loir. Another significant site is the village of Lavardin, recognized as one of France's most beautiful, featuring the Saint-Genest church with colorful paintings and the remains of an 11th-century castle. The Saint-Rimay Tunnel also holds historical significance from World War II.
Are there any unique natural attractions or gardens in the area?
Yes, the Troglodyte Village of Trôo is a unique attraction, known for its dwellings hollowed out of the cliff overlooking the Loir Valley. Additionally, the Plessis Sasnières Garden, located about 7.9 kilometers from Saint-Martin-des-Bois, offers a beautiful natural setting.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Saint-Martin-Des-Bois?
The area offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Trail of the Castles' or the 'Lavardin – Château de Lavardin loop'. If you prefer running, there are trails such as the 'Château de Montoire et château de Lavardin — loop'. Road cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes like the 'Lavardin – Lavardin loop from Trôo'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide, running guide, and road cycling guide for Saint-Martin-Des-Bois.
Are there family-friendly attractions suitable for children?
Absolutely. The village of Lavardin is considered family-friendly, offering a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte styles to explore. Its café-bakery carved into stone serves delicious ice cream, which is often a hit with children. The historical Montoire-sur-le-Loir also provides an engaging historical experience for families.
What makes Lavardin a notable place to visit?
Lavardin is recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. It's a charming blend of medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architectural styles. Visitors can explore the beautiful Saint-Genest church with its colorful paintings, the remains of an 11th-century castle, and even a unique café-bakery carved into the stone.
Can I visit any troglodyte dwellings near Saint-Martin-Des-Bois?
Yes, the Troglodyte Village of Trôo is a must-see. This unique settlement is known for its dwellings hollowed out of the cliff, offering a fascinating glimpse into a historical way of life. It dominates the Loir Valley and has origins dating back to the medieval era.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Martin-Des-Bois and its attractions?
The Loir Valley region, including Saint-Martin-Des-Bois, is generally pleasant from spring to early autumn. Summer offers opportunities for outdoor concerts in places like the Lavardin Saint-Genest Church. Spring and autumn provide milder weather, ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying the natural beauty without the peak summer crowds.
What is the significance of the Saint-Rimay Tunnel?
The Saint-Rimay Tunnel played a role during World War II. It was chosen as a potential refuge for Adolf Hitler's train during his meetings with French officials in Montoire-sur-le-Loir. The tunnel was fortified with armored doors and blockhouses, which are still visible today, as part of a planned, but never fully utilized, Führer headquarters.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Saint-Martin-Des-Bois?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and diverse landscapes. The blend of medieval, Renaissance, and troglodyte architectural styles in villages like Lavardin and Trôo is often highlighted. The scenic Loir Valley and the opportunity to explore ancient castles and unique settlements also receive high praise from the komoot community.
Are there any easy walking routes for beginners or casual strolls?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For instance, the 'Lavardin – Lavardin loop from Lavardin' is an easy 2.6 km walk. Another option is the 'Porte de Sougé loop from Saint-Jacques-des-Guérets', which is an easy 4.4 km route. These are great for a relaxed exploration of the local scenery. More details can be found in the hiking guide.
What cultural experiences can I find in Montoire-sur-le-Loir?
Montoire-sur-le-Loir offers a rich historical and cultural experience. You can explore its castle, church, the chapel of Saint-Gilles, and the convent of the Augustins, all of which bear witness to its history dating back to the 11th century. The town also hosts Musikenfete, an exhibition venue for themed events.
Are there opportunities to see the wider Loire Valley and its famous châteaux?
While Saint-Martin-Des-Bois is in the Loir Valley, the renowned Loire Valley and its iconic châteaux, such as the Château de Chambord (approximately 53 kilometers distant), are within a reasonable day-trip distance. This allows for a broader exploration of historical architecture and the natural landscape of the region.
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