Attractions and Places To See around Manthelan - Top 18
Best attractions and places to see around Manthelan include a variety of historical sites, châteaux, and natural landscapes within the Indre-et-Loire department and the wider Loire Valley. Manthelan is a small commune situated in a region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering access to significant cultural and natural points of interest. The area provides opportunities to explore medieval architecture, historic towns, and diverse natural environments.
Best attractions and places to see around Manthelan
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Last updated: July 1, 2026
Loches Keep
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The royal city
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Built on a long …
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Courtineau Valley
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Loches
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Loches Public Garden
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The donjon is a residential tower or defensive tower of a medieval castle in the French cultural area. The donjon is 36 meters high, has a square floor plan, and is characterized by an excellent state of preservation. It was probably built by Fulk III of Anjou in the 11th century. In the 15th century, the fortress was converted into a royal prison by Louis XI. It houses the cells of Philippe de Commynes, Cardinal Balue, and the Duke of Milan, who spent his time painting murals. In 1801, Napoleon I transferred the state prison to the department. The donjon was used as a prison until 1926. In any case, it is an impressive complex, as is the entire town of Loches, which is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
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Very beautiful little town with all services and shops.
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Located in the Indre valley, the castle of Loches (and more precisely the Royal City of Loches) is part of the large family of Loire castles. Built on a long rocky outcrop, the fortified city is dominated by an imposing keep, a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. From the lower town to the fortress, the winding streets are dotted with architectural gems (Loches belongs to the network of cities and countries of Art and History): among them, the Saint-Ours collegiate church, Romanesque splendor with pyramids (the " dubes”) and the royal residence of the end of the Middle Ages, a high place in the History of France which welcomed Joan of Arc, Agnès Sorel and Anne of Brittany. Along a thematic path, the interactive tour evokes the destiny of men and women who left their mark on the history of these places. Immersive visit in augmented reality of the dungeon, thanks to the Histopad. The Royal City of Loches also hosts a new exhibition every year. Source: https://www.touraineloirevalley.com/patrimoine-culturel/cite-royale-de-loches-loches/
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During your visit to Loches, this public botanical garden is worth a visit. From inside this tranquil green space, you can enjoy the view of the Indre and the townhouses of Loches that overlook its banks. Turn 180 degrees and you can admire the Saint-Ours collegiate church, dating from the 11th century, in all its splendor.
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This fortified keep is a feat of military engineering built from 1013 to 1035 by the then Count of Anjou. Many royal figures have made it their home and have frequented it over the centuries, which explains why Loches is known as a "royal city". Among these figures are Joan of Arc, Anne of Brittany and King Charles VII.
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During your visit to Loches, this public botanical garden is worth a visit. From inside this tranquil green space, you can enjoy the view of the Indre and the townhouses of Loches that overlook its banks. Turn 180 degrees and you can admire the 11th century Collegiate Church of Saint-Ours in all its glory.
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Loches is a less well-known town in Indre-et-Loire, but just as beautiful as its neighbors on the banks of the Loire such as Amboise or Chaumont. It is located on the edge of the Indre. In addition to a remarkable town center built entirely in tufa stone, it houses a castle built around the 11th century keep belonging to the old fortified castle. The imposing royal home of the Plantagenets has long served as a prison. You can visit it all year round.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical attractions can I explore near Manthelan?
The area around Manthelan is rich in history. You can visit the historic town of Loches, known for its tufa stone architecture and an 11th-century keep. Within Loches, explore the impressive Loches Keep, a 36-meter high fortified structure that once served as a royal prison. The entire royal city of Loches, built on a rocky outcrop, features architectural gems like the Saint-Ours collegiate church and a royal residence. Further afield, the Loire Valley offers numerous châteaux such as Château de Chenonceau, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, and Amboise Royal Castle, all within reasonable driving distance.
Are there any natural attractions or gardens to visit near Manthelan?
Yes, you'll find several beautiful natural spots and gardens. The Courtineau Valley, a classified natural area (ZNIEFF), is known for its troglodyte dwellings, water mills, and a rock-carved chapel. In Loches, the Loches Public Garden offers tranquil views of the Indre river and the Saint-Ours collegiate church. Closer to Manthelan, you can explore the Jardin René Boylesve, featuring rare plants and ancient roses, and the Jardin du Prieuré du Louroux, another beautiful garden just 3 km away. The wider Loire Valley is also home to many 'Remarkable Gardens' associated with its châteaux, like those at Chenonceau and Villandry.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Manthelan?
Manthelan is a great base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for different activities. For running, explore trails like the 'L'étang du Louroux loop' or 'Plan d'eau de Manthelan loop'. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes such as 'Le Louroux Pond and Sorigny Loop' or more challenging options like 'Le Louroux - Loches - Preuilly-sur-Claise Loop'. Mountain biking trails are also available, including loops around Reignac. You can find more details and routes on the running trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails guides around Manthelan.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Manthelan?
Beyond historical sites, families can enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities. The Loches Public Garden provides a pleasant space for a stroll. For a bigger adventure, the ZooParc de Beauval, approximately 44 km away, is a highly regarded attraction for animal lovers. Another option is the Réserve de Beaumarchais, a wildlife park about 46 km from Manthelan.
Where can I find charming villages or towns near Manthelan?
The region boasts several picturesque towns and villages. Loches itself is a beautiful historic town with a remarkable center. Montrésor, about 31 km to the east, is recognized as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages,' featuring a quaint old town and a castle. The larger town of Tours, about 30 km away, offers numerous monuments, gardens, and medieval buildings to explore.
What is the Manthelan Carnival?
The Manthelan Carnival is a vibrant local tradition. While Manthelan is a small commune, this cultural event has a long history, with its 126th edition noted in stock photos, suggesting a lively and well-established community celebration.
Can I find any unique historical dwellings or structures in the area?
Absolutely. The Courtineau Valley is notable for its numerous troglodyte dwellings carved into the rock, some of which form entire villages. In Manthelan itself, a restored 15th-century house at 11 Rue Nationale offers a glimpse into local history with its original beams, stone sink, and 17th-century fireplace.
Are there any markets near Manthelan?
Yes, Manthelan hosts its own weekly market on Thursdays. Additionally, nearby towns like Ligueil, Saint-Branchs, Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, and Loches also have weekly markets on various days, offering opportunities to discover local produce and crafts.
What makes the Courtineau Valley special?
The Courtineau Valley is a 6-kilometer long natural area classified for its ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest (ZNIEFF). It's unique for its many troglodyte dwellings, historical water mills, and washhouses. It also holds a historical connection to Joan of Arc, who is said to have taken shelter in the rock-carved Notre-Dame-de-Lorette chapel there.
What is the significance of the Loire Valley designation?
Manthelan is situated within the wider Loire Valley, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation highlights the region's outstanding universal value, particularly its cultural landscapes, historic towns, and magnificent châteaux, making it a significant area for both natural and historical exploration.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Manthelan?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture, especially in places like Loches and its impressive Keep. The natural landscapes, including the tranquil gardens and valleys, also receive high praise. The komoot community has shared 19 photos and given 22 upvotes for the attractions, indicating a positive and engaging experience for those who explore the area.
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