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Centre-Val de Loire
Chinon

Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois

Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois - Top 9

Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This commune in Indre-et-Loire, France, is known for its connections to historical figures like Joan of Arc and Charles Martel. Visitors can explore a green landscape comprising cultivated land, meadows, and forests, alongside significant leisure areas. The region offers a variety of sites, from ancient churches to natural valleys with unique geological formations.

Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois

  • The most popular attractions is Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, a historical site and natural monument known for its troglodyte dwellings and water mills. It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest.
  • Another must-see spot is Boisbonnard Castle, a private castle and historical site. This ancient fortress retains its wide medieval moats and 5 cylindrical towers, with its residential building dating from the 16th century.
  • Visitors also love Château du Louroux, a fortified priory from the 13th century. This site housed Benedictine monks who created a pond for fish and a water reserve for their mill.
  • Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois is known for its historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches and castles to scenic valleys.
  • The attractions around Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and 6 photos.

Last updated: June 29, 2026

Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses

Highlight • Historical Site

The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character.

The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood.

The water mills:
- The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain.
- The Courtineau mill
- The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there
- The Souvres mill.
- The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further.

The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.

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Boisbonnard Castle

Highlight • Castle

Boisbonnard is a fairly attractive ensemble and was extensively altered in 1856.

This private castle is an old fortress of which only:
- the wide medieval moats in their entirety and which form 2 quadrilaterals and a 3-sided figure
- 5 cylindrical towers including the South-East tower pierced with circular loopholes called the “couleuvrine tower”.
The surrounding walls disappeared, the eastern ones were pulled down in 1856.
Access is controlled by 2 entrance towers, capped with pepper shakers, guarding the wooden footbridge which replaced the drawbridge. A portal with a curved pediment connects them.
The enclosure demolished in the last century has retained 3 corner towers.

The current castle was built in several stages. The residential building, which dates from the 16th century, had its facades completely redesigned in 1856. Part of it disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century.
To the south-west, a main building covered with a 4-pitched roof and presenting stone windows on the ground floor had been lined with another building in 1731; these buildings were demolished in 1979.

The outbuildings near the front door were built in Renaissance style around 1856 in place of the old farm buildings.
Numerous renovation and restoration works have been carried out since 1994.

During the cleaning of the moat an oak door was discovered under the water level. We can assume that there was an underground passage between the castle and the village church or to other undergrounds.

Translated by Google •

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Courtineau Valley

Highlight (Segment) • Other

The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character.
The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood.
The water mills:
- The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain.
- The Courtineau mill
- The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there
- The Souvres mill.
- The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further.
The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.

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Château du Louroux

Highlight • Castle

The Chateau de Louroux, or priory of Louroux, is a fortified priory in the 13th century, dependent on the abbey of Marmoutier. The priory housed the Benedictine monks who had the pond dug to provide them with fish and create a water reserve for their mill.

The castle can only be visited from the outside.

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This fortified priory was built in the 13th century and housed Benedictine monks who had the lake dug to supply fish and build up a water reserve for the nearby mill.

Translated by Google •

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Tips from the Community

Lucy
November 8, 2023, Château de Boisbonnard

This private castle is an ancient fortress of which only: the large medieval moat in its entirety and which forms 2 quadrilaterals and a 3-sided figure 5 cylindrical towers including the South-East tower pierced with circular loopholes called “couuvrine tower”. The current castle was built in several stages. The residential house which dates from the 16th century had its facades completely remodeled in 1856. Part of it disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century. To the South-West a main building covered with a 4-sloped roof and presenting stone casement windows on the ground floor had been joined by another building in 1731; these buildings were demolished in 1979

Translated by Google

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The Chateau de Louroux, or priory of Louroux, is a fortified priory in the 13th century, dependent on the abbey of Marmoutier. The priory housed the Benedictine monks who had the pond dug to provide them with fish and create a water reserve for their mill. The castle can only be visited from the outside.

Translated by Google

0

0

This fortified priory was built in the 13th century and housed Benedictine monks who had the lake dug to supply fish and build up a water reserve for the nearby mill.

Translated by Google

2

0

A very nice road

Translated by Google

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The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character. The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood. The water mills: - The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain. - The Courtineau mill - The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there - The Souvres mill. - The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further. The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.

Translated by Google

2

0

The Courtineau valley is a valley located in the municipalities of Saint-Epain and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, in the department of Indre-et-Loire, in the Center-Val de Loire region. Six kilometers long, it has many troglodyte dwellings, water mills, washhouses ... It is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF) because of its remarkable character. The chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, carved into the rock, would have been the refuge of a hermit in the fourteenth century2. On March 6, 1429, Joan of Arc would have taken shelter there to protect herself from a downpour while she was traveling the Courtineau valley to go to Chinon to see King Charles VII, after two nights spent in Sainte-Catherine-de -Proudwood. The water mills: - The Moulin de la Chaise: from 1241 to 1789, it belonged to the Chapter of Saint-Martine de Tours and depended on the Provost of Saint-Epain. - The Courtineau mill - The Malicorne mill: in the fourteenth and at least until the seventeenth century, it depended on the seigneury of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. We grew hemp there - The Souvres mill. - The mill of Mareille, large building of three floors which appears on the map of Cassini and the Napoleonic land register of 18274. According to the elders, the building was before 1900 a sawmill, the paddle wheel was placed further. The village of Courtineau is made up of troglodyte houses. In the mid-twentieth century he still owned a café, a grocery store and a school.

Translated by Google

1

0

Boisbonnard is a fairly attractive ensemble and was extensively altered in 1856. This private castle is an old fortress of which only: - the wide medieval moats in their entirety and which form 2 quadrilaterals and a 3-sided figure - 5 cylindrical towers including the South-East tower pierced with circular loopholes called the “couleuvrine tower”. The surrounding walls disappeared, the eastern ones were pulled down in 1856. Access is controlled by 2 entrance towers, capped with pepper shakers, guarding the wooden footbridge which replaced the drawbridge. A portal with a curved pediment connects them. The enclosure demolished in the last century has retained 3 corner towers. The current castle was built in several stages. The residential building, which dates from the 16th century, had its facades completely redesigned in 1856. Part of it disappeared at the beginning of the 20th century. To the south-west, a main building covered with a 4-pitched roof and presenting stone windows on the ground floor had been lined with another building in 1731; these buildings were demolished in 1979. The outbuildings near the front door were built in Renaissance style around 1856 in place of the old farm buildings. Numerous renovation and restoration works have been carried out since 1994. During the cleaning of the moat an oak door was discovered under the water level. We can assume that there was an underground passage between the castle and the village church or to other undergrounds.

Translated by Google

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites are there to explore in Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois is rich in history. You can visit the Sainte-Catherine Church, where Joan of Arc is said to have found Charles Martel's sword. The Town Hall, originally a pilgrim hostelry, also hosted Joan of Arc. Don't miss Boisbonnard Castle, an ancient fortress with medieval moats, and Château du Louroux, a 13th-century fortified priory.

Where can I learn about Joan of Arc's connection to Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

Joan of Arc's presence is strongly felt in the area. The Sainte-Catherine Church is central to her legend, as it's where she reportedly found Charles Martel's sword. She also stayed for three days at the building that is now the Town Hall. Furthermore, the Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, about 12 km away, is where she is said to have sought shelter during a journey to Chinon.

What natural attractions can I visit around Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

The region offers beautiful natural spots. The Parc de Fierbois is a significant leisure area with a lake, set within a mature forest. You can also explore the Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses, classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest, featuring unique troglodyte dwellings carved into the rock.

Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near these attractions?

Yes, there are many outdoor activities available. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Le Louroux loop - Natural area of the Louroux pond' or the 'Étang de Comare loop from Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Statue of Joan of Arc – Crissay-sur-Manse Village loop' or the 'L'étang du Louroux – Château du Louroux loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois.

What kind of family-friendly outdoor activities are available?

The Parc de Fierbois is an excellent option for families. It offers a variety of activities around its lake, including adventure trails with zip-wires ('accrobranche'), pedal boat rentals, tennis, volleyball, football, mini-golf, and archery. It's a great place for children and adults to enjoy the outdoors.

What are some unique architectural features in the village of Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

The village boasts several unique architectural gems. La Maison du Dauphin, dating back to 1478, showcases period architecture with lattice windows, sculpted crests, and winged dragons. The Town Hall building, originally a pilgrim hostelry from around 1400, is another historical structure. Additionally, the Library is housed in the former Chapel of Saint James, an annex of the Town Hall.

Are there any other notable towns or castles to visit nearby?

Yes, several other significant sites are within a short drive. These include Crissay-sur-Manse, a 'Most Beautiful Village' known for its stone houses, and famous châteaux like Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, Château de Villandry (renowned for its gardens), Château du Rivau, and Château de Langeais. The larger city of Tours and the historic town of Loches are also within reach.

What religious sites can be found in Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

The primary religious site is the Sainte-Catherine Church, a flamboyant Gothic style church built starting in 1431. It features a shrine where Joan of Arc is said to have prayed and a 15th-century silver reliquary. The village also has the Temple of the Reformed Church, built in 1958 in the Saint-Maurice wood, and the Stations of the Cross at the village entrance. The municipal library is housed in the former Chapel of Saint James.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Sainte-Catherine-de-Fierbois?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses is highly popular for its unique geological formations and historical significance. The ancient fortresses like Boisbonnard Castle and Château du Louroux also draw interest for their rich past and architectural details. The komoot community has shown strong engagement, with more than 30 upvotes and 6 photos for the area's highlights.

Are there any specific natural areas classified for their ecological importance?

Yes, the Courtineau Valley and Troglodyte Houses is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunistic, and floristic interest (ZNIEFF). This designation highlights its remarkable character and biodiversity, making it a significant site for nature enthusiasts.

Can I find any ancient mills or washhouses in the area?

Yes, the Courtineau Valley is home to several historical water mills and washhouses. These include the Moulin de la Chaise, the Courtineau mill, the Malicorne mill, the Souvres mill, and the mill of Mareille, offering a glimpse into the region's past industrial and daily life.

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