The best walks and hikes around Vineuil

Above the Indre River stands the castle that gave the entire town its name. Once, in the 10th century, a wooden fortress belonging to the lords of Déols stood here. In the 12th century, Raoul le Large had it rebuilt in stone—and ever since, it bears his name: Château-Raoul. From that castle, the town's name, Châteauroux, evolved.

Rodène, a shepherdess and later saint, is said to have watered her flock here and sacrificed herself to save her faith. Water from this fountain was considered healing (for headaches, skin ailments, and even infertility), and in earlier times, pilgrims would circle the spring three times in prayer.

Nestled between the city streets lies this charming city park, where playgrounds and young trees already provide shade. The municipal outdoor swimming pool opens here in summer. From here, you can easily walk to the Collégiale and Levroux Castle.

The 15th-century Porte de Champagne is the only remaining city gate in Levroux. Originally built with the permission of King Charles VII to fortify the town, it still marks the transition between the old and newer parts of the city. During the recent restoration, the gate regained its towers and roofs, giving you a good impression of how imposing the entrance to Levroux once was. A true eye-catcher and a reminder of the town's medieval character.

For a village, Levroux boasts a church that almost has the allure of a cathedral. The 13th-century Collégiale Saint-Sylvain is not called the "petite cathédrale du Berry" for nothing. Note the details: the Romanesque side portal that once housed the sick and outcasts, the wooden stalls with humorous carvings, and the unique organ cabinet from 1502. Inside, you'll even find the banc du bourreau—the executioner's seat, marked with a red cross.

Stop by La Guinguette de Belle-Isle. This lovely restaurant/bar is located in the heart of Belle-Isle Park and offers local food, ice cream, and cocktails. It also features a waterfront terrace and mini-golf. It's the perfect spot for a break during your walk.

An old watermill on the Indre River, nestled in the green Belle-Isle recreation area. Beautiful views of the river and bridges, and an idyllic spot to take a break during your walk.

In Déols, this bell tower is the only remnant of an earlier era. Inspired by medieval horticultural treatises, the abbey's medieval garden consists of twelve squares, planted and surrounded by hedges. They symbolize the twelve apostles of Christianity. Visitors can admire three distinct areas: the herb garden with plants used in medieval pharmacopoeias, the love garden inspired by medieval poetry and courtly love, and the heavenly garden dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the abbey's symbol.