Attractions and Places To See around Mettray - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Mettray include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Located in the Indre-et-Loire department of France, the area is characterized by the Vallée de la Choisille, with its winding and marshy arms that shape the local landscape. Mettray offers a variety of points of interest, from ancient megalithic structures to significant religious architecture and serene lakes. The region provides opportunities for exploring both historical sites and natural environments.
Best attractions…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
La Bergeonnerie Lake
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Rochecorbon riverside tavern
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Considered one of the largest …
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Wilson Bridge
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Named after Woodrow …
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Saint-Gatien Cathedral, Tours
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Basilica of Saint Martin
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Did you know this about the Pont Wilson? The Pont Wilson has a hidden story. In 1978, part of the bridge unexpectedly collapsed. Not due to a flood, but because the Loire had eroded the subsoil. Afterward, the bridge was reinforced from within. Yes, really: sections are hollow and contain inspection chambers.
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Built on the remains of the Gallo-Roman city of Caesarodunum, Saint-Gatien Cathedral stands in the heart of the city. This city was once one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in the West and is still one of the capitals of the Pays de Loire. Opening hours: Saint-Gatien Cathedral is open every day of the week from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm. From Easter to 11 November, you can meet the volunteers of the Présence Cathédrale association in the cathedral. You can recognise them by their badges. They can help you with your visit and answer your questions. For guided tours and group visits, which can take place all year round by reservation, please contact 07 66 39 84 11. For more information, visit their website: https://visite-cathedrale-tours.fr/ You can also visit the cloister of La Psalette, which is accessible via the cathedral.
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Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours
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beautiful view of the Loire on both sides, nice night light, no cars, and wide space for walking. good bridge
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In Tours, Lake Bergeonnerie is the meeting place for athletes. Throughout a route where you can come across jogging and street workout enthusiasts, find a bench or a patch of grass to observe the sailing school practicing on the placid waters of the lake.
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An emblematic monument of the city of Tours, the Saint-Martin basilica is the work of the architect Victor Laloux (to whom the city also owes the city hall and the train station). It was built from 1886 to 1902 and included on the list of historic monuments in 1946. Its plans were designed to respect the initial location of the relic located there: the tomb of Saint Martin. The building is entirely open to the public, like its crypt where the tomb rests. The end of the day is less busy and religious choirs rock the nave with soft and pleasant voices.
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This church in Tours stands out from many others with the same patronage because it houses the mortal remains of Saint Martin. While he is not an apostle, like those buried in the important churches of Rome (St. Peter's Basilica and St. Paul Outside the Walls) or Santiago de Compostela, and still venerated today, he, too, takes us far back to the beginnings of Christianity, to the fourth century. Along with Saint Nicholas (Bishop of Myra), Saint Martin is probably one of the most popular saints of all time. The feast day of the former officer in the Roman army is November 11th. On the night after the famous "cloak sharing," when he gave half his army cloak to a freezing beggar, Jesus Christ appeared to him in a dream. He then converted to Christianity and was later elected Bishop of Tours—initially against his will. His burial church is here, where, in addition to the major memorial day, an additional holiday is celebrated: every year on July 4th, his episcopal consecration and the transfer of his remains are commemorated.
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A beautiful bridge that also offers beautiful views of the quite natural Loire.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in and around Mettray?
Mettray offers a rich history, including the significant Mettray Penal Colony, a former reformatory. You can also explore the ancient Dolmen de la Grotte aux Fées, the largest dolmen in Touraine, steeped in local legends. Nearby Tours features the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral, a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, and the Basilica of Saint-Martin.
Are there any ancient or prehistoric sites near Mettray?
Yes, the Dolmen de la Grotte aux Fées is a notable ancient megalithic structure near Mettray. It is considered the largest dolmen in Touraine, featuring three tables and about ten pillars, believed to have been a Neolithic burial site.
What famous châteaux are located near Mettray?
Mettray is ideally situated near several renowned Loire Valley châteaux. These include the elegant Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, the historical Château d'Amboise, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence at Château de Clos Lucé, the spectacular gardens of Château de Villandry, and Château de Langeais.
What natural attractions are there to explore around Mettray?
The region boasts natural beauty, including the Vallée de la Choisille, characterized by its winding and marshy arms. You can also visit serene lakes like La Bergeonnerie Lake and Bretonnières Lake, both offering trails and green spaces. Additionally, the area features remarkable gardens such as those at Château de Villandry, Les jardins du prieuré de Saint-Cosme, and Le jardin des Prébendes d'Oé.
Are there any lakes suitable for outdoor activities near Mettray?
Absolutely. La Bergeonnerie Lake is perfect for running or cycling, with a 2.5-kilometer circuit, fitness equipment, and play areas. Bretonnières Lake also offers a large water point with many trails through its wooded areas, along with benches, picnic tables, and play areas.
What outdoor activities and trails are available near Mettray?
The area around Mettray is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous trails for hiking, running, and cycling. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Mettray guide, the Running Trails around Mettray guide, and the Cycling around Mettray guide.
Are there good hiking trails around Mettray?
Yes, there are several hiking trails suitable for various levels. Popular options include the 'Mettray loop,' 'Path to paradise – The Fairy Cave loop from Mettray,' and 'The Fairy Cave loop from Mettray,' which is an easier option. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Mettray guide.
Can I go cycling near Mettray's attractions?
Yes, the region offers diverse cycling routes. You can enjoy scenic rides like the 'Dolmen of the Fairy Cave – Mills and streams loop' or the 'Pont Wilson Cycle Path – On the banks of the Loire loop.' For more options, consult the Cycling around Mettray guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Mettray?
Many attractions around Mettray are family-friendly. La Bergeonnerie Lake and Bretonnières Lake both offer play areas and easy trails. The Wilson Bridge in Tours is also considered family-friendly, and the Rochecorbon riverside tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere with children's games.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions near Mettray?
Yes, Bretonnières Lake is noted for having good trails, some of which are suitable for disabled visitors, making it a wheelchair-accessible option for enjoying the outdoors.
When is the best time of year to visit Mettray's outdoor attractions?
The best time to visit Mettray's outdoor attractions is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying the lakes, and engaging in hiking or cycling activities. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Mettray's attractions?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. The serene lakes like La Bergeonnerie Lake are loved for running, cycling, and relaxing. The architectural grandeur of sites like Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the historical significance of the Mettray Penal Colony also draw considerable interest. The well-maintained trails and family-friendly amenities at places like Bretonnières Lake are also highly valued.
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