Attractions and Places To See around Mottereau - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Mottereau include a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. This village in Eure-et-Loir, France, is situated in a natural transition zone between the Perche and Beauce regions, with the rivers La Foussarde and La Fausse flowing through the commune. Mottereau is recognized for its commitment to floral decoration, holding the "Village Fleuri" label. The surrounding area offers numerous points of interest, from historic churches to châteaux.
Best attractions and places to see around…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray
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Château de Frazé
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Illiers-Combray
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Notre-Dame Church
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Saint Martin Church
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Magnificent ceiling with the possibility of lighting it up
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The Notre-Dame church is the most notable heritage of the commune; it is in the Romanesque style, with the exception of the bell tower dating from 1689. It houses a monument and a funerary slab, several painted wooden statues, a sculpted group of the Three Marys, a lectern, an altarpiece, and a 16th-century bell, all classified as historical monuments. It includes a healing fountain known as the Trois-Marie fountain, a restored washhouse, a pond, and two lakes, including the Étang Marcel Huart, which is suitable for fishing. Its inhabitants are called "Méréglisiens" and "Méréglisiennes".
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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).
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The place to take a break in Illiers-Combray.
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Built on an old feudal motte, which is still visible and was completely destroyed during the Hundred Years' War, it was replaced in the second half of the 15th century by the castle, the remains of which can still be seen today. The Saint-François Tower remains as it was, with its Grisons base and rows of white stone. Halfway up the circle is the Cord of Saint Francis of Assisi, with its coils and knots. A Renaissance building was added in the 16th century, and new buildings were constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries.
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Very beautiful church from the 15th century with a painted wooden beam ceiling.
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The Saint-Martin church of La Croix-du-Perche, composed of a single nave without aisles, dates from the 12th century. At this date, the church is the chapel of a priory founded around 1250 by the Abbey of the Holy Trinity of Tiron. The church only became a parish when the monks left, towards the end of the 16th century. The monument is remarkable for its 16th century framework, entirely decorated with paintings dated 1537. The building was classified as a historic monument in 1934.
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Frazé Castle is distinguished above all by its French-style exteriors. Unfortunately, their tour is only open to groups by reservation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I visit near Mottereau?
The region around Mottereau is rich in history. You can explore the 15th-century Church of Saint James in Illiers-Combray, known for its painted wooden beamed ceiling. Another significant site is the Saint Martin Church in La Croix-du-Perche, a 12th-century church remarkable for its 16th-century framework entirely decorated with paintings. Additionally, the village of Illiers-Combray itself is a "City of Character" and the childhood home of author Marcel Proust, offering sites like the museum of Aunt Léonie.
Are there any castles or châteaux to explore near Mottereau?
Yes, you can visit the Château de Frazé, a 15th-century castle known for its French-style exteriors. While tours are typically by reservation for groups, its architecture is a notable sight. Further afield, the town of Châteaudun, about 24 km away, also boasts a significant castle.
What natural landscapes characterize the Mottereau area?
Mottereau is nestled in a natural transition zone between the Perche and Beauce regions. The rivers La Foussarde and La Fausse flow through the commune, contributing to its scenic landscape. The village has also been awarded the "Village Fleuri" label, highlighting its commitment to floral decoration and green spaces. The nearby Perche Natural Regional Park, about 33 km away, offers peaceful countryside and opportunities for outdoor activities.
What unique architectural features can I see within Mottereau village?
Mottereau itself offers charming architectural details. You can find mural paintings on each of its four streets, the historic Église Saint-Antoine with its Chartres blue stained-glass windows, a private half-timbered farmhouse, and an old water pump. The entrance gate of the local private château is also listed as a local monument.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Mottereau?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Church of Saint James in Illiers-Combray and the Château de Frazé are both listed as family-friendly. Exploring the charming village of Illiers-Combray, with its connection to Marcel Proust, can also be an engaging experience for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near Mottereau?
The area around Mottereau is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for mountain biking, running, and hiking. For detailed options, explore the MTB Trails around Mottereau, Running Trails around Mottereau, and Hiking around Mottereau guides, which include routes like the 'Château de Frazé — loop from Montigny-le-Chartif'.
Are there hiking trails available around Mottereau?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find trails like the 'Château de Frazé — loop from Montigny-le-Chartif' which takes you through the Perche Regional Natural Park, or shorter, easy loops such as 'Étang de la Balastière – Étang de Pêche Michel Hamet loop from Brou'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Hiking around Mottereau guide.
Can I find cycling routes near Mottereau?
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes, including mountain biking trails. You can explore options like the 'Frazé Castle – Château de Frazé loop from Brou' or the 'Mountainbike loop from Happonvilliers'. More routes and details are available in the MTB Trails around Mottereau guide.
What towns or villages are worth visiting near Mottereau?
Beyond Mottereau, several charming towns are worth exploring. Illiers-Combray is a must-see for its literary connections and architectural charm. Châteaudun, about 24 km away, offers a historic castle and riverside setting. Nogent-le-Rotrou, within the Perche Regional Natural Park, also features a historic castle. For a grander experience, Chartres, with its magnificent Gothic cathedral, is about 29 km from Mottereau.
When is the best time to visit Mottereau and its surroundings?
The region's 'Village Fleuri' label suggests that spring and summer are particularly beautiful, with floral displays enhancing the village's charm. These seasons are also ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the Perche Natural Regional Park and exploring the various historical sites in comfortable weather.
Are there local markets to visit near Mottereau?
Yes, several nearby towns host vibrant markets throughout the week. You can find markets in Brou (Wednesday), Bonneval (Monday), La Bazoche-Gouet (Saturday), Courville-sur-Eure (Thursday), Châteaudun (Thursday and Saturday), Droue (Tuesday), La Loupe (Tuesday), Nogent-le-Rotrou (Saturday), Luce (Sunday), and Cloyes-sur-le-Loir (Saturday).
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Mottereau?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites, religious buildings, and charming settlements. The Church of Saint James in Illiers-Combray is particularly noted by pilgrims for its significance. The serene passages through forests and fields, away from traffic, are also highly valued for outdoor activities, offering idyllic scenery.
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