Attractions and Places To See around Ermenonville-La-Grande - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Ermenonville-La-Grande highlight the rural character and historical significance of this commune in the Eure-et-Loir department. The village itself features a medieval church, calvaries, and the ancient Pierre d'Aulmont, reflecting a history spanning over a thousand years. Situated on the historic route of St-Jacques de Compostelle, it serves as a starting point for exploring the Centre-Loire Valley region. This area offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Moulin de Ver-lès-Chartres
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Saint-Georges Church of Saint-Georges-sur-Eure
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château des Boulard
Highlight • Castle
The castle was bought in 2004 by the Boulard family who …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
15th-century murals in Saint-Orien church
Highlight • Monument
They represent a dance of death, symbolizing the confrontation between humans and death.
To have !
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Ermenonville-La-Grande.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
According to biblical accounts, the apostle "Saint Jacques" was the first person to be executed for his faith, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, making him an early martyr (blood witness) of Christianity. His tomb in the town named after him, "Santiago de Compostela" (Galicia, Spain), is one of the most famous and important pilgrimage destinations in the world and is often ranked third after Jerusalem and Rome. Yesterday (July 25) was his feast day in the calendar of saints. When this date falls on a Sunday (this was last the case in 2021), the Catholic Church celebrates a special "Holy Year" there (extended by Pope Francis until 2022 due to the coronavirus pandemic).
0
0
The place to take a break in Illiers-Combray.
0
0
Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention that dates back to pre-Christian times. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: either the water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or the water is guided above the wheel and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
0
0
Very beautiful church from the 15th century with a painted wooden beam ceiling.
0
0
Unfortunately, the church was not accessible when I visited (mid-September 2024). You could only look in through a gate and the dance of death depictions on the left side were not really visible. In front of them were transparencies with skeleton drawings. Maybe those were the depictions...
0
0
A unique example of wonderful architecture exuding the opulence and power of religion.
0
0
The walls of the nave of the church of Saint-Orien are adorned with paintings from the 15th century, which are surprisingly well preserved. They represent a dance of death, symbolizing the confrontation between humans and death. To have !
2
0
When you go along the veloscenie on this side, you will pass along the ver lès chartres mill. A very pleasant little place where it is good to stroll in a bucolic atmosphere
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore within Ermenonville-La-Grande itself?
Within Ermenonville-La-Grande, you can visit the local village church, which dates back to the late Middle Ages with a 16th-century portal and Romanesque choir. The village also features two historic calvaries, the ancient Pierre d'Aulmont (possibly a Gallo-Roman dolmen), and restored Old Coach Plaques, notably one at the Place de la Mairie. The village itself lies on the historic route of St-Jacques de Compostelle.
What are some notable historical and cultural attractions near Ermenonville-La-Grande?
Just 12 km northeast, you'll find Chartres, home to the magnificent Chartres Cathedral, a 13th-century Gothic masterpiece. Other nearby sites include the town and castle of Chateaudun to the south, and the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray, a 15th-century religious building on the Way of St. James.
Are there any unique artistic or architectural features to see in the area?
Yes, the 15th-century murals in Saint-Orien church are a must-see. These surprisingly well-preserved paintings adorn the nave walls and depict a dance of death, symbolizing the confrontation between humans and mortality. Additionally, the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray features a painted wooden beamed ceiling from the 16th century and stained glass from 1867.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Ermenonville-La-Grande?
The region offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'Ponds of Fontenay-sur-Eure – Rives du Loir loop' for cycling, or 'Les étangs de Fontenay-sur-Eure — loop by Nogent-sur-Eure' for hiking. For more options, explore the dedicated guides for Cycling around Ermenonville-La-Grande and Hiking around Ermenonville-La-Grande.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in the vicinity?
Several attractions are considered family-friendly. The Moulin de Ver-lès-Chartres offers a pleasant setting for a stroll in a bucolic atmosphere, which families often enjoy. The Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray and the Saint-Georges Church of Saint-Georges-sur-Eure are also suitable for family visits, offering historical insights.
Where can I find natural features or scenic spots for a leisurely walk?
Ermenonville-La-Grande itself has two village ponds that enhance the landscape, one near the town hall and church, and another at Place des Cours. For a longer stroll, the area around the Moulin de Ver-lès-Chartres is known for its pleasant, bucolic atmosphere along the water. The Perche Regional Natural Park, near Nogent-le-Rotrou, also offers peaceful countryside for outdoor activities.
What is the difference between Ermenonville-La-Grande and Ermenonville (Oise)?
It's important to distinguish between the two. Ermenonville-La-Grande is located in the Eure-et-Loir department and is the focus of this guide, known for its rural charm and proximity to Chartres. The other Ermenonville, in the Oise department (north of Paris), is home to attractions like the Mer de Sable theme park, the Château d'Ermenonville, and the Parc Jean-Jacques Rousseau. These are distinct locations.
Can I visit a castle near Ermenonville-La-Grande?
Yes, you can visit the Château des Boulard, a historic castle built in 1768 and later extended. It has been restored and is available for events. Further afield, the town of Chateaudun, about 29 km south, also features a castle, and the Château de Rambouillet, a royal summer residence, is approximately 47 km away.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Ermenonville-La-Grande?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and peaceful atmosphere. For instance, the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray is valued by pilgrims on the Way of St. James for its significance and detailed history. The Moulin de Ver-lès-Chartres is enjoyed for its pleasant setting and the opportunity for a leisurely stroll. The well-preserved 15th-century murals in Saint-Orien church are also a popular highlight for their unique artistic value.
Are there any specific routes for cycling enthusiasts?
Cycling enthusiasts have several options. Routes like 'Ponds of Fontenay sur Eure – The Eure at Ver les Chartre loop' or 'Château de Châteaudun – Bonneval loop' offer varying distances and difficulties. You can find more detailed information and routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Ermenonville-La-Grande guide.
What is the historical significance of Ermenonville-La-Grande?
Ermenonville-La-Grande has a rich history spanning over a thousand years, with its existence documented as early as 986. It is notably situated on the historic route of St-Jacques de Compostelle (Way of St. James), making it a point of interest for pilgrims and those interested in medieval history. The village's church and calvaries also reflect its long historical past.
Most popular routes around Ermenonville-La-Grande
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
