Visiting Loches and its surroundings in South Touraine

The lovely town of Loches, with around 7,500 inhabitants, is located in South Touraine, in the Indre-et-Loire department within the Centre-Val de Loire region. This area became a dairy region following the creation of dairies (including the Verneuil dairy which still exists today) after the phylloxera epidemic and the abandonment of vineyards by winemakers in favor of dairy farming.

We went to spend an extended weekend there for the first time with my favorite photographer in July 2022, and I must say we completely fell under the spell of this town with its remarkable heritage, labeled a “City of Art and History”. It offers a journey back in time, into the heart of over 1,000 years of history! We then returned with some blogger friends in May 2026. This article therefore brings together our discoveries made during these two getaways in Touraine.

View of the Clock Tower of Loches through colorful flowers.

Mythical bird sculpture in front of the church of the Royal City of Loches.

Woman in front of a house with purple shutters in Chédigny, near Loches.

View of Loches from the Royal City by a visitor.

Keep and tower of the Château de Loches, viewed from the outside, framed by trees.

Woman resting on a white bench under vegetation in Chédigny, South Touraine.

Panorama of the medieval town of Loches and its keep seen from the heights with churches in the background.

Panoramic view of the rooftops of Loches from the fortress, a woman looking at the landscape.

Hiking by the water near Loches, woman sitting on a stone bench looking at the lake.

Practical Info

Getting there by train from Paris:

The town is easily accessible from Paris by train via Montparnasse station. You need to take a TGV to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station and then take a connection (TER) to Loches.
During our stay in 2022, things were a bit more complicated because the railway line leading to Loches was under construction. We therefore had to travel to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps and then rent a car to get to Loches (which is more convenient if you want to travel around the region afterwards, for example).

Table of Contents

What to do, what to visit in Loches?

The town of Loches, which is one of the most beautiful fortified towns in France, developed around a natural rocky spur where humans settled at least since Gallo-Roman times. In the Middle Ages, the Counts of Anjou established a fortress there, and after 1205 and its capture by Philip Augustus, it became a “royal city” housing a royal residence where kings stayed from Charles VII to Francis I. Today, it preserves the vestiges of three major historical periods that marked its urban development: the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the 19th century.

Do not hesitate to drop by the tourist office to pick up some (free) documentation to follow the five mapped trails of the town, which will allow you to discover the history of Loches through key moments: the discovery tour, the Foulques Nerra trail, the Francis I trail, the Alfred de Vigny trail, and the Agnès Sorel trail.

My photo tip: for a beautiful view of the medieval city, I advise you to go to the Public Garden of Loches (5 chemin de la Prairie-de-la-Foire), which is located on the other side of the Indre and just below the fortress.

Belfry of Loches seen through colorful summer flowers.

Cobbled alley of Loches with a woman sitting on the steps of an old building.

Entrance gate and towers of the Royal City of Loches under a blue sky.

Street in Loches with the cliff, the Lansyer Museum, and a tourist.

Cobbled path under an arch near the medieval fortress of Loches.

Entrance to the Royal City of Loches, Town Hall, and Belfry.

Public garden of Loches with a view of the Royal City and Saint-Ours church.

Close-up of a bright orange flower in the public garden of Loches, South Touraine.

Reflection of the collegiate church of Saint-Martin of Loches in a pool of the public garden.

Loches Touraine Châteaux de la Loire Tourist Office
Place de la Marne, 37600 Loches
Link to the Tourist Office website

Strolling through the old medieval fortress of Loches

First of all, I recommend going for a walk in the old medieval fortress of Loches, one of the best-preserved in Europe, by passing through the Porte Royale. There, you can visit the keep, the royal residence, and the Lansyer museum, which I talk about in more detail further down in the article. This upper part of the town is freely and openly accessible, but it can be a bit challenging in terms of accessibility because it’s quite a climb.

Also, don’t miss stopping by the Saint-Ours collegiate church, built in the 12th century, to admire the tomb of Agnès Sorel, a very beautiful alabaster recumbent effigy (free access all year round). The historic core of this commercial town on the ancient road connecting Paris to Spain is also very well preserved and retains very fine architectural testimonies.

Medieval turret of Loches with a flag bearing the fleur-de-lis under a blue sky.

Medieval stone staircase, natural light, and fleur-de-lis flag in Loches.

Royal gate of Loches, entrance to the medieval Royal City, South Touraine.

Façade of the Saint-Ours church of Loches with Romanesque portal and conical roof.

Romanesque sculpted portal of Saint-Ours church in Loches, entrance to the Royal City.

Saint-Ours church of Loches and its sunny garden.

Tomb of Duchess Anne of Brittany in Saint-Ours church in Loches.

Visiting the Royal City of Loches

The Royal City is now the property of the Indre-et-Loire Departmental Council and is open to visitors. Its scenographic tour allows you to discover 500 years of French history with tactile models, projections, video animations, sound milestones… The complex that makes up the Royal City consists of 3 areas: the defensive area with the Keep, the residential area with the Logis, and the religious area with the Collegiate Church. With the entrance ticket, you can visit the following two monuments: the Keep and the Royal Logis (the Collegiate Church being freely accessible without a ticket).

Royal City of Loches and gardens under a blue sky.

Smiling woman posing in the Royal City of Loches with historical towers and gardens in the background.

Detail of a medieval tapestry at the Royal City of Loches depicting a winged stag, Saint Michael, and flowers.

The Keep

This imposing 37-meter-high keep was built in the 11th century by the Count of Anjou, Foulques Nerra, and is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. It served alternately as a residential and defensive fortress and later as a state prison at the end of the Middle Ages. During your visit, make sure to check out the medieval-inspired garden, recreated at the foot of the keep. I must also warn you that visiting the Master Tower of the keep is quite a workout (there are a lot of steps and 3 levels) and can possibly be a bit daunting if you suffer from vertigo. On the other hand, once you reach the top, you get a magnificent view of the surroundings.

The keep is visited with an Histopad, a tablet with 360° augmented reality that allows you to see the keep as it was in medieval times and immerse yourself in its history. Along the tour, you also gain access to the Tour Neuve, the Tour du Martelet, as well as the cell of Ludovico Sforza. The Tour Neuve was also a prison, and you can still discover engraved and painted traces left by the inmates. Finally, don’t miss the Duel Room with its bas-reliefs, which constitute a remarkable feature of this period.

Old graffiti carved into the stone walls of the Château de Loches.

Interactive tour in the Guard Room of the Royal City of Loches.

Underground tour in the medieval vestiges of the Château de Loches.

Wooden staircase leading to the outer ramparts of the Château de Loches.

Dark interior of the Keep of the Château de Loches with stone staircase and visitor.

Dark interior of the medieval fortress of the Château de Loches with a metal footbridge.

Roof of the Loches fortress with a female visitor and blue sky.

Keep of the Château de Loches and gardens with cobbled path under a blue sky.

Sunny garden with gravel path near the medieval fortress of Loches.

Lush plant walkway in the gardens of the Royal City of Loches.

Medieval garden of the Château de Loches with plant archway and stone walls.

Fortified medieval keep of Loches with its stone ramparts and main entrance under a blue sky.

Tourist looking at the town of Loches and its medieval keep through a panoramic telescope.

Keep and medieval ramparts of the Château de Loches bathed in sunlight.

The Royal Logis

The Royal Logis is a major landmark in French history and was the favorite residence of the Valois dynasty (between Charles VII and Louis XII), which welcomed three important female figures: Joan of Arc, Agnès Sorel, and Anne of Brittany. The royal power had the ambition to make Loches a second capital in the 15th century. It is also an architectural gem built in the Flamboyant Gothic style at the end of the 14th century. Its beautiful facade overlooks the town of Loches and the Indre. You can also admire the oratory of Anne of Brittany, a small architectural jewel once again in the Flamboyant Gothic style.

During our visit in 2022, we were able to discover a temporary exhibition on Agnès Sorel, favorite of King Charles VII: “Agnès Sorel, the influencer”, on the occasion of the sixth centennial of her birth. It was an opportunity to discover the personality and influence exerted by this woman of legendary beauty.

Royal City of Loches, medieval castle seen through blue flowers in the foreground.

Church steeple of Loches seen through green tree foliage.

Part of the Royal City of Loches with a view of the Saint-Gatien tower.

Guided tour of the Royal City of Loches with Saint-Ours church in the background.

Religious painting of two men at the Royal City of Loches.

View from the medieval fortress of Loches over the town and countryside.

View through an embrasure of the towers of the Royal City of Loches and Saint-Pierre church.

Historical tapestry on display in the Royal City of Loches depicting a court scene with medieval characters.

Tourists visiting the medieval hall with tapestry and exposed beam ceiling in the Royal City of Loches.

Marble sculpture of a woman embracing a man at the Royal City of Loches.

Interior of the Royal City of Loches with scallop shell walls and stained glass window.

Visited in 2022 and in 2026

Cité royale de Loches
5 Place Charles VII 37600 Loches
Open every day of the year except January 1st and December 25th
Prices (ticket valid for both monuments): €12.50 / green ticket €11.50 for cyclists / €10.50 reduced / free for under-7s and job seekers
Link to the Royal City website

Visiting the Lansyer Museum

This charming little museum set in the heart of the royal city of Loches is dedicated to the 19th-century landscape painter Emmanuel Lansyer (1835–1893), who bequeathed his family home and collection to the town of Loches. Since 1902, it has showcased paintings and engravings by the artist in his former home, as well as personal belongings of the painter and Japanese objects he collected. It was an opportunity for me to discover this independent artist who loved painting nature and who was a pupil of Viollet-le-Duc and Courbet.

I recommend taking a quick trip to the museum and also making sure to wander through the small romantic garden of the house (free access during museum opening hours), redesigned in 1998 based on a watercolor by the artist, which offers a bucolic green oasis in the heart of the medieval city and invites you to stroll around.

Flowered garden in Loches in front of "L'Atelier d'Agnès" with a woman walking.

Painting from the Lansyer Museum Loches: walk in an autumnal undergrowth.

Interior of the Lansyer Museum in Loches with green furniture and exhibited paintings.

Dark painting of a devastated interior, exhibited at the Lansyer Museum Loches.

Painting of the castle of Loches and the old town at the Lansyer Museum.

Interior of the Lansyer Museum in Loches with a set table and wall paintings.

Painting from the Lansyer Museum Loches: cluttered interior with clothes and apparent mess.

Visited in 2022

Musée Lansyer
1 rue Lansyer 37600 Loches
Good deal: free access for everyone from Wednesday to Sunday 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM / 2:00 PM – 5:45 PM
Link to info about the museum

Visiting Saint-Antoine church and gallery

This 19th-century church is housed in one of the buildings of the former Ursuline convent, established in 1626 and closed during the Revolution. You can visit it for free during the building’s opening hours; it houses several works of art by renowned local artists and gives you a wonderful overview of art history from the 15th to the 19th century. After your visit, make sure to pop around the side of the church to check out the Galerie Saint-Antoine, which shelters the enigmatic Caravaggio paintings by Philippe de Béthune and various items of religious art.

Facade of the church in Loches with a steeple and a STOP sign.

Interior of the church in Loches, wooden altar and painting of the Descent from the Cross.

Interior of the Saint-Antoine church in Loches, nave and main altar.

Visiting an art exhibition, probably at the Lansyer museum in Loches.

Visited in 2022

Church and Galerie Saint-Antoine
37600 Loches
Free and self-guided tour
Gallery open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:45 PM

Visiting the Chancellerie and the Maison du Centaure

These two former mansions were built in the 16th century. Be sure to head to the Chancellerie to learn more about the heritage of Loches through a permanent exhibition and another one dedicated to the tomb of Agnès Sorel (both exhibitions are free to access). Don’t miss the Maison du Centaure either, with its sculpted facade depicting Hercules piercing the centaur Nessus with an arrow as he abducts his wife Deianira.

Inner courtyard of the Chancellerie in Loches with olive trees and patio furniture.

Interior of the Chancellerie in Loches with wall frescoes and exit to the garden.

Interior of the Chancellerie in Loches overlooking the medieval garden.

Visited in 2022

Chancellerie
8 Rue du Château, 37600 Loches
Exhibition accessible for free from April to October

Going for a canoe ride on the Indre

A really lovely activity that I also recommend doing during your time in Loches (weather permitting) is a short canoe trip on the Indre river, which runs alongside the town. You can rent canoes right outside the town at the Cultu’raids Concept stand, enjoy a short out-and-back paddle, and then return to your starting point. As always with canoeing, I recommend wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting wet (I often wear my swimsuit and yoga clothes, for example) and bringing a change of clothes that you can leave behind at the starting point. I also always bring flip-flops for this kind of activity and a bottle of water.

The ride is quite bucolic and also offers a different perspective of the surrounding area. Just be careful not to paddle too close under the trees if you aren’t a fan of spiders, as it’s a bit of a hangout spot for them…

Shaded river under the trees, perfect for a canoe ride in Loches.

Canoeing on the Indre near Loches, woman paddling under the trees.

Canoe trip on the Indre river near Loches in a wooded environment.

Canoe-kayak rental in Loches with kayaks and paddles on gravel.

Woman canoeing on the Indre near Loches in Touraine.

Activity tested in 2022

Cultu’raids Concept
Canoe rentals from 1 hour to a full day
Canoe rates: €10 per person for 1 hr / €12 per person for 2 hrs / €18 per person for 3 hrs / €20 per person for 4 hrs / €26 per person for the full day / reduced rates for children
Link to their website

Taking a bike ride along the BeauxLieux Art Trail

This artistic and bucolic trail stretches between the towns of Loches and Beaulieu-lès-Loches, running from the public park in Loches to the historic center of Beaulieu, passing through the Prairies du Roy (a 240-hectare green lung and Sensitive Natural Area right in the heart of the Indre Valley). Along the way, you’ll discover around thirty works of art, and in 2022, 8 new pieces joined the trail centered around the theme of Resilience.

Also, don’t miss stopping by the Jardin Partagé des Viantaises along the trail near Beaulieu-lès-Loches, which is the former kitchen garden of the Viantaise sisters’ convent. This spot is also free to enter and truly gorgeous! We did this trail by bike, but you can easily do it on foot as well.

Modern art sculpture wrapped around a tree during a bike ride near Loches.

Red insect sculpture near the church steeple in Beaulieu-lès-Loches.

Cyclist near the sculptures of the BeauxLieux art trail near Loches.

Tree decorated with colorful yarn bombing at the Petits Jardins de Beaulieu, Loches.

Petits Jardins de Beaulieu: orange flowers in an old wheelbarrow.

Path with blue and white sculptures, BeauxLieux art trail in Loches.

Flowery garden in Beaulieu near the ramparts of Loches, Southern Touraine.

Creative gardening with succulents in recycled containers in Loches.

Decorative yellow pom-pom on a tree, Jardins de Beaulieu, Loches.

Activity tested in 2022

BeauxLieux Art Trail
Free access trail, open 24/7
Paid guided tours of the exhibition (€4/€5) are also available in July and August
Link to the trail’s website

Renting a bike from Cycles de Vie

This small workshop, located in the Loches train station, offers refurbished Dutch bikes for sale or rent and also provides a repair service for all types of bikes. You can rent your bike (with the option to also rent accessories like helmets, locks, etc.) for a half-day or a full day by booking directly on their website.

Cyclist on a shaded dirt path near Loches, bike ride in Southern Touraine.

Cyclist in front of Cycles de Vie Loches (Sales, Rentals, Repairs) for a bike ride.

Female cyclist with a bike near a bridge and an information sign on a nature trail.

Activity tested in 2022

Cycles de Vie
Gare de Loches 37600 Loches
Rates: €15 per bike for a half-day and €20 for a full day
Update from 05/14/2026: this bike rental shop has unfortunately permanently closed its doors

My favorite foodie spots in and around Loches

As per usual, below you’ll find my selection of great foodie spots in Loches (several restaurants, a shop, and a market) that we had the chance to test during our two stays with my favorite photographer. These spots often showcase local products and a few regional specialties to try if you visit Southern Touraine.

Specialties to try: Roi rose de Touraine pork rillons, Sainte-Maure de Touraine cheese, and Touraine wines.

Visiting the Loches Saturday morning market

If you want to buy and/or enjoy some local produce, I recommend waking up early on Saturday morning and heading to the town market, which takes place all over the city center (it’s quite a large market). Indeed, the Loches market is one of the epicurean epicenters of the Centre-Val de Loire region. Here are a few local producer stalls that I’ve tested (and whose products we brought back with us) and that I recommend: Sandrine Champion (goat cheese producer); La Cabane des 4 Saisons (for buying fruits and vegetables); and picking up PDO Tours rillettes at the Maison Galland stall (€5.95).

Loches market overlooking the belfry of Saint-Ours church on a sunny day.

Maison Galland Tours rillettes on a market stall in Loches.

Open-air producers' market in a cobbled street in Loches.

Loches market with the Earl Champion goat cheese stall.

Loches Market
Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Where to shop in Loches? Les Ateliers du Coin

This designer and artisan boutique offers an exhibition and sales space open to the public. In total, Les Ateliers du Coin features 60 m² dedicated to exhibiting and selling creations blending a variety of talents (forager-artisan, pottery, plant-based natural cosmetics, etc.) from ten artisans determined to promote the expertise of Southern Touraine. The shop brings together 12 permanent artisans, plus guest artisans and artists whose work rotates every 3 months.

Bags of wild herbal tea "fruit de cueillettes vagabondes" sold at Les Ateliers du Coin in Loches.

Inside Les Ateliers du Coin, a handicraft and unique objects shop in Loches.

Handcrafted lamp featuring an animal skull and driftwood at Les Ateliers du Coin in Loches.

Les Ateliers du Coin artisan shop in Loches, woman browsing local products.

Les Ateliers du Coin shop in Loches, artisan and designer boutique.

Address tested in 2022

Les Ateliers du Coin
24 Grande Rue, 37600 Loches
Opening days and hours: Mondays from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

A locavore restaurant in Loches? Having lunch at Le P’tit Restau

This little gem located on Grande Rue in Loches is one of my culinary favorites in town! The chef offers a short, seasonal menu featuring 3 starters, 3 mains, and 3 desserts that change every week, using primarily local and organic produce whenever possible. And we thoroughly enjoyed our meal here! For the warmer months, the restaurant also features a very nice little terrace on the pedestrian street right in front of the venue.

What we tasted: organic basil fish terrine, piquillo coulis, and mixed green salad; organic rice cream with mild garlic and fresh organic herb tomato salsa; pan-seared saithe fillet with burnt organic zucchini caviar with garlic and lemon; organic eggplant balls with ricotta and parmesan, tomato sauce, organic basil, and Kalamata olive tapenade; apricot financier cake with fresh organic verbena custard; and for drinks, the restaurant offers a lovely selection of regional wines (glasses of wine range from €5.50 to €8).

Grilled fish on a bed of puree with sunflower seeds at Le P'tit Restau in Loches.

Inside a Loches restaurant: set table and Loches tourist posters.

Savory flan with red coulis and salad in a black bowl at a restaurant in Loches.

Bottles of wine from Château de Villeneuve and Quincy at Le P'tit Restau in Loches.

Inside Le P'tit Restau restaurant in Loches with staff and set tables.

Facade of Le P'tit Restau restaurant in Loches with outdoor terrace seating.

Soft dessert served with custard at Le P'tit Restau in Loches.

Address tested in 2022

Le P’tit Restau
6 Grande Rue, 37600 Loches
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM except Wednesdays and Thursdays
Prices: set menu with starter + main course + dessert for €30 / à la carte: starter €7, main course €17, dessert €6 / daily special €12 and dessert of the day €4
Link to the restaurant’s website

Where to grab a quick bite in Loches? Le Café de la Porte Picois

This bistro-style café-restaurant offers quick lunch options, notably croque-monsieurs served with crudités, green salad, or French fries, available until 4:00 PM. I particularly recommend the one with Sainte-Maure de Touraine cheese (€9.80). As a starter to share, we had a plate of homemade rillons (a local specialty) with rillettes (€7). For dessert, I got a gourmet coffee (€6.90). On market days it gets packed, so I recommend booking in advance if you want to make sure you get a table.

Plate of pulled pork, sliced roast meat, and fresh salad served at Café de la Porte Picois.

A woman presenting a plate of melted cheese tartine and fries at Café de la Porte Picois.

Mixed salad with chicken, cheese cubes, potatoes, and balsamic vinegar served at Café de la Porte Picois.

Customers seated at Café de la Porte Picois in Loches with menus written on chalkboards on the wall.

Terrace of Café de la Porte Picois with seated customers and the market in a cobbled street of Loches.

Restaurant tested in 2026

Café de la Porte Picois
3 Rue Saint-Antoine 37600 Loches
Prices: salads between €14.90 and €16.90; croques between €8.90 and €10
The good deal: daily lunch set menu available every day with starter + main + dessert for €18 / starter + main or main + dessert for €15

Where to have lunch on a terrace in Loches? Au Vicariat

Located in the heart of the Cité Royale, this restaurant is ideal for a lunch break during your visit to this part of the town. It is especially worth it for its lovely leafy terrace offering a magnificent view of both the Logis Royal and the surrounding area.

To try: homemade foie gras plate (14 €); gazpacho (6 €); Lochoise salad with local products (15 €); the Vicariat burger with fig bread and homemade foie gras (18 €); for wines, the spot also offers a nice selection of local wines (wine by the glass between 3.50 € and 6 €); for dessert, artisanal ice creams from Manufacture des Belles Glaces (6 € for a 120 ml tub).

Foie gras, chutney, and bread toast on a white platter in Loches.

White wine tasting in front of the Cité Royale of Loches.

Shaded terrace of Le Vicariat in Loches with green tables and old houses.

Burger with fries and salad at Le Vicariat in Loches.

Terrace meal tasting at Le Vicariat Loches with hamburger and salad.

Shaded terrace of Le Vicariat in Loches, Sud Touraine, with a view of the countryside.

Shaded terrace overlooking the Cité Royale of Loches and its turrets.

Terrace at Le Vicariat in Loches with a view of the medieval fortress.

Americas Lime sorbet from La Manufacture des Belles Glaces in Loches.

Address tested in 2022

Restaurant Le Vicariat
4 Place Charles VII, 37600 Loches

A bistronomic table in Loches? Le Prosper

This bistronomic table is tucked away at the foot of the Saint-Antoine Tower. We had dinner on the establishment’s terrace and spent a wonderful evening there. The service is lovely and very smiling, and we also ate very well.

To try: borscht-style gazpacho (9 €); mini beef tartare seasoned chef’s style (10 €); peanut chicken supreme (19 €); catch of the day, line-caught Breton pollock with mashed potatoes and baby vegetables (19 €); assortment of regional cheeses (7 €); for dessert, an old-rum baba (7 €); a lovely selection of regional wines by the glass (between 4.50 € and 6 €).

Person enjoying a pink cold soup garnished with herbs, Le Prosper Loches.

Domaine Alexis Boucard N°1 Bourgueil red wine and glass on an outdoor table.

Bottle of Touraine Chenonceaux Domaine de la Grange wine and glass of white wine.

Woman with white wine and amuse-bouches on a terrace in Loches.

Terrace of restaurant Le Prosper in Loches with diners seated at tables.

Shaded outdoor terrace with seated customers in Loches, Le Prosper.

Dessert with rum baba, ice cream, and sliced almonds on a white plate.

Illuminated Loches clock tower and facade of restaurant Le Prosper at twilight.

Address tested in 2022

Restaurant Le Prosper
4 Place de la Marne 37600 Loches
Price: discovery menu with starter + main course + dessert for 29 €

A gourmet dinner in Loches? Restaurant Le George

To extend the experience at Hotel Le George (which I talk about in the “accommodation” section below), it is essential to sit down at the hotel restaurant, which complements the charms of the accommodation. Le George’s restaurant indeed features a superb terrace/veranda positioned above a branch of the Indre river. From here, you can enjoy a view of the public garden and its majestic century-old trees. In this idyllic setting, the chef delights us by offering delicious seasonal cuisine, carefully crafted from local, fresh, and flavorful ingredients.

Woman holding a flute of champagne at restaurant Le George in Loches.

Tasting a gourmet dish at restaurant Le George in Loches, showcasing roasted and creamy cauliflower.

Musician playing electric guitar in the warm ambiance of restaurant Le George in Loches.

Confit pork belly served with green vegetables, mushrooms, and beetroot purée at restaurant Le George in Loches.

Crispy tuile on a bed of creamy seed and oilseed cream in a black plate at restaurant Le George.

Le George restaurant dining room in Loches with wooden tables and grey chairs under a bright glass roof.

Gourmet chocolate, caramel, and hazelnut shard tartlet served on a plate at restaurant Le George in Loches.

Musician playing electric guitar in a rustic stone room at restaurant Le George in Loches.

Restaurant tested in 2026

Restaurant Le George
39 rue Quintefol, 37600 Loches
Prices: starter + main course + dessert menu 39 € / food & wine pairing 22 € (3 glasses)
The great deal: weekday menu starter + main course + dessert 23 € or starter + main course or main course + dessert 19.50 €
Link to the restaurant’s website

Where to have a chic dinner in Loches? La Cour des Saveurs restaurant

La Cour des Saveurs is the restaurant of the Hôtel de la Cité Royale, a lovely 4-star establishment opened in 2021 in a former courthouse in the heart of Loches. The venue features a large terrace with a panoramic view of the historic and fortified center of the town, making it an ideal spot for a romantic and chic meal. On the plates, you’ll find flavorful cuisine combining creativity and modernity, crafted by Christophe Vasseur, Maître Restaurateur, and his chef Jorge Bustamante Cerda.

On the menu for this dinner: confit artichoke, homemade light ricotta, and sweet herb vinaigrette; line-caught sea bass fillet, braised green peas, and Colonnata lard; and for dessert, confit rhubarb, strawberries, light vanilla cream, buckwheat crumble, and verbena-infused rhubarb juice with strawberry ice cream.

Yellow sofa, sculpted bust, and reception table in the lobby of Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Refreshing cocktail with ice cubes and a lemon slice at Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Gourmet dish with fried artichoke, fresh cheese, cured ham, and microgreens at Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Facade of the Best Western Premier Hotel de la Cité Royale, a former Courthouse in Loches.

Group of guests seated on a terrace under parasols at Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Gourmet dessert with sorbet, roasted rhubarb, fresh strawberries, and crumble served at Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Bouquet of spring flowers in a glass vase on a terrace table at Hôtel Cité Royale.

Gourmet fish dish with fresh vegetables served at Hôtel Cité Royale in Loches.

Restaurant tested in 2026

Restaurant La Cour des Saveurs
Hôtel de la Cité Royale, Best Western Premier
2 rue Gonzague Saint-Bris, 37600 Loches
Prices: cocktails 11 € and mocktails 9 € / weekday menu with starter + main course + dessert (lunch only, Tuesday to Friday) 23 €
Link to the restaurant’s website

A Michelin-starred dinner in Loches? Restaurant Arbore & Sens ☆

This gourmet restaurant located in Loches is run by Chef Clément Dumont, who won the national The Fork Awards in 2021. It features a lovely indoor terrace covered by a canopy where we had dinner, making it very pleasant for sunny days.

We tested the chef’s 4-course “Arbore” menu. The latter offers balanced cuisine focused on textures. His close work with local producers and neighborhood artisans is heavily highlighted both on the menu and in the restaurant, which displays photos of them. For instance, I really liked how, during the meal, we were asked to choose a knife made from a specific wood to eat with, crafted by a local cutler in Chinon, Les Copeaux d’Abord. Another great point to note: we were served very good organic herbal teas to finish the meal.

March 9, 2023 update: the restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 2023!

Handheld bottle of Le Vau Breton red wine, Cabernet Franc, in Loches.

Woman enjoying a glass of red wine on a restaurant terrace in Loches.

Shaded terrace Arbore et Sens Loches, diners eating under greenery.

Demonstration of an artisanal knife with wooden handles by a person in Loches.

Shaded terrace Arbore et Sens in Loches, Sud Touraine.

Gourmet duck breast with whole grain mustard and vegetables, Loches.

Handheld bottle of Laura David Vigneronne Montlouis-sur-Loire Facétieuse wine.

Restaurant terrace in Loches under a leafy arbor lit at night.

Tea infused in a teapot and glass cup on a wooden tray, Loches.

Gourmet dish with fish, orange sauce, and seasonal vegetables in Loches.

Shaded terrace in Loches with a woman using her phone near the Cité Royale.

Address tested in 2022

Restaurant Arbore & Sens ☆
22 rue Balzac 37600 Loches
Closed Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday lunch
Prices: 7-course “Acte 1” menu at 88 € / 9-course “Acte 2” menu at 125 € / food & wine pairing with Acte 1 menu, 60 €, with Acte 2 menu, 90 €
The great deal: the 3-course “Premiers Pas” menu (weekday lunch only) at 55 €
Link to the restaurant’s website

Where to eat around Loches? Restaurant l’Image in Preuilly-sur-Claise

During our 2026 stay, if there is one table that particularly stood out to me, it’s l’Image. Located in the heart of the medieval village of Preuilly-sur-Claise, inside a 17th-century coaching inn, this bar-restaurant has been home to a culinary tradition since 1883. Taken over 3 years ago by Mathieu (the 7th owner), the establishment delights visitors with its 100% homemade, sincere cuisine rooted in its local terroir. Local vegetables, fruits, and meats are enhanced according to the seasons.

During our visit, we loved the chicken supreme, the comforting black pudding sausage, the breaded sea bass fillet, as well as a very good vegetarian option centered around cold whipped lemon ricotta. A memorable address, and to accompany this fine meal I recommend enjoying a glass of Loire wine or trying a meticulously prepared cocktail. In short, a true culinary favorite that is definitely worth the detour, take my word for it!

Mixed salad with soft-boiled eggs and radishes served on a flowered plate, accompanied by grilled toast.

Flute of refreshing cocktail with a lemon slice, placed on a table near a vase of flowers.

Plate of roasted carrots served on a pea purée, garnished with crumbled feta cheese and fresh mint.

Gourmet white asparagus served with herb emulsion and trout roe on an antique plate.

Small blue and white ceramic vase with fresh flowers on a restaurant table.

Gourmet dishes on a restaurant table, including asparagus, fresh vegetables, and eggs on flowered plates.

Plates of roast chicken with potatoes and black pudding served on a wooden table.

Black pudding served with herb-roasted baby potatoes and creamy sauce on a decorated plate.

Small fresh cheese cakes topped with strawberries and crumble on a decorated restaurant plate.

Rustic restaurant table set with tableware, glasses, and flowers in an elegant dining room.

Address tested in 2026

Restaurant l’Image
13 Place des Halles 37 290 Preuilly-sur-Claise
Open every day for lunch and dinner except Wednesday
Prices: starters between 10 € and 12 € / main courses between 16 € and 19 € / desserts between 8 € and 9 € / cocktails between 7 € and 12 €
Distance: about 35 km from Loches
Link to the restaurant’s website

My favorite accommodation addresses in Loches

As usual, you will find below my selection of great accommodation addresses in Loches (a hotel and an unusual lodging) that we had the opportunity to test during our two stays with my favorite photographer.

A hotel in Loches? Le George ☆☆☆

Ideally located in the heart of Loches, Le George is a true gem nestled in a magnificent 15th-century building. In the 1820s, the place was a coaching inn called “l’hôtel de la providence”, which actually owes its current name to the visits of illustrious figures such as the writer George Sand. Positioned on the banks of the Indre river, this intimate 17-room establishment (classic or comfort) with a restaurant (which I talk about in the previous paragraph) offers a surprisingly bucolic environment right in town. During our visit with my favorite photographer, we stayed in room 108, an absolutely quiet suite overlooking the Indre at the back.

We found that the establishment offered very fine amenities for a 3-star hotel. It was also completely renovated in 2020. Another highlight of this stay is undoubtedly breakfast: served in a sunlit veranda that pleasantly overlooks the stream, it provides a simply magnificent setting to start the day.

Antique stone fireplace with metal wall decor and a fox sculpture at Le George in Loches.

Facade of bar-restaurant Le George in Loches decorated with blue flowers, featuring a welcoming entrance and string lights.

Elegant room with stone fireplace, exposed beams, and refined decor inside hotel Le George in Loches.

Facade of hotel-restaurant Le George by the Indre river in Loches under a blue sky.

Full breakfast with pastries, coffee, orange juice, and muesli at restaurant Le George in Loches.

Guest seated in the bright veranda of restaurant Le George in Loches with a view of the river.

Continental breakfast buffet with pastries, cereals, and drinks in an exposed stone room at Le George Loches.

Hotel tested in 2026

Le George ☆☆☆
39 rue Quintefol, 37600 Loches
Prices: classic room for two people starting at 77 € / comfort+ room (like ours) starting at 145 €
Link to the hotel’s website
Book your stay

An unusual accommodation in Loches? Gîte troglo chez Diane

This charming troglodyte guesthouse with a terrace is located on the heights of the town and offers a superb view of Loches. We received a very warm welcome from Diane, who rents out this guesthouse at the end of her property. The guesthouse is well-equipped and offers everything you need to prepare meals on site (hot plates, fridge, tableware, coffee machine, kettle, etc.). It is perfect for a short couples’ getaway. Diane has also provided plenty of useful information in the guesthouse about all the activities and sights to explore in the surrounding area.

On the other hand, I prefer to warn you: this guesthouse (well, this one and all troglodyte guesthouses in general) isn’t ideal for arachnophobes like me… Indeed, despite the impeccable cleanliness of the guesthouse—which is cleaned with the utmost care, and that’s important to point out—spiders absolutely love this kind of place, and you’re bound to cross paths with one or two fine specimens. It’s no one’s fault and there’s nothing that can be done to prevent it, but if you’re afraid of them, it’s better to be forewarned. That didn’t stop me from having a wonderful stay and feeling right at home in this little cocoon carved into the rock. Breakfast is included with the rental and is delivered straight to the guesthouse in the morning. I must admit it was one of the highlights of the trip: having breakfast in the sunshine with that incredible view was pure bliss.

Whitewashed troglodyte facade in Loches with lush vegetation and a view over the rooftops.

Interior of a troglodyte dwelling in Loches with a woman in a yellow dress in the back room.

Decorative mirror capturing a photographer taking a selfie inside a troglodyte interior in Loches.

Troglodyte interior in Loches featuring a stone fireplace and raw walls.

Wooden armchair with a white cushion reading "La vie est une fête" in Loches.

Troglodyte bedroom in Loches with a woman using her phone near arched windows.

Terrace overlooking the Royal City of Loches with a sunny breakfast.

Woman standing in front of a troglodyte house in Loches with baskets.

Woman having breakfast with a view of the Royal City of Loches.

Lush greenery near Loches with a troglodyte cave and foliage.

View of the town of Loches from a garden with chickens and outdoor bedding.

Guesthouse tested in 2022

Gîte troglo Chez Diane
Chemin de Montmartre, 37600 Loches
Link to the guesthouse’s Airbnb page

Things to do around Loches

As usual, below you will find a selection of ideas for places to visit around Loches (within a maximum radius of about 30/40 minutes by car from Loches). Some are easily accessible by bike, for example, while others still require a vehicle to get there.

Visiting the town of Beaulieu-lès-Loches

This town is located right next to Loches (it is even easily accessible on foot or by bike from the town center of Loches), on the right bank of the Indre river. This medieval and monastic town still boasts a fine architectural heritage today, with no fewer than 13 listed Historic Monuments.

Here you can discover its abbey church as well as the Saint-Laurent church, which has been converted into a cultural space and regularly hosts temporary free exhibitions organized by the Outrevoir association. The town is also home to the remains of the old abbey, fine old residences, mills, and poetic gardens. Indeed, as I mentioned in the paragraph about the BeauxLieux art trail, be sure to take a stroll around the Beaulieu community garden, which is truly a wonderfully pleasant spot for a wander!

Beaulieu-lès-Loches: traditional waterfront houses with vineyards.

Vaulted stone passage leading to a flower-filled courtyard with a red bench in Beaulieu-lès-Loches.

Traditional houses along a canal in Beaulieu-lès-Loches.

Bell tower of the former church of Beaulieu-lès-Loches, ruined facade, blue sky.

Cobbled alley in Beaulieu-lès-Loches leading to a Romanesque bell tower under a blue sky.

Vaulted interior of the Royal City of Loches featuring contemporary art installation.

Interior of a religious building with Gothic vaults and contemporary art exhibition.

Scarecrow in the small gardens of Beaulieu near Loches.

Abandoned bicycle with a leather bag hanging in the gardens of Beaulieu, Loches.

Beaulieu-lès-Loches
Distance: about 1.3 km from Loches
Link to the Beaulieu-Lès-Loches town hall website

Take a stroll in the Forest of Loches

The state-owned forest of Loches is two hundred years old and is home to one of the finest oak groves in France. You can go for a lovely bucolic walk starting from the Étang du Pas aux Ânes parking lot (as we did). You then follow the Pas aux Ânes trail which loops around the pond (about 30 minutes). Alternatively, for a slightly longer walk, you can follow the RandoCroquis trail, which leads you all the way to the charming Romanesque chapel of Saint-Jean du Liget, nestled amidst the fields (allow about a solid hour of walking). This trail is also punctuated with signs centered around nature sketching (hence its name). In any case, these are easily accessible and very bucolic little walks.

Wild chicory flowers in the tall grass of the Forest of Loches.

Sculpted gateway leading to the Forest of Loches with a château in the background.

Pond on the outskirts of the Forest of Loches, South Touraine.

Reeds by the riverside near the Forest of Loches, Indre-et-Loire.

Red and yellow hiking trail marker on a tree trunk in the Forest of Loches.

Hiking in the Forest of Loches, woman with a yellow backpack on a shaded path.

Isolated Romanesque chapel in a wheat field near the Forest of Loches.

Hiking in the Forest of Loches on a country path beside a wheat field.

Romanesque stone chapel near a wheat field and trees, Forest of Loches.

Rando’Croquis trail
Royal forest of Loches
Starting from the Étang du Pas aux Ânes
Distance: about 5/6 km from Loches

Visit the Chartreuse du Liget

After your walk, you can also stop by the present-day Chartreuse du Liget, located right next door, and admire its architecture. It is open to visitors; unfortunately, during our first visit in 2022 we didn’t have time to stop by, but we did go back in 2026.

This Carthusian monastery was founded in 1177 by Henry II Plantagenet, thanks to the order’s close ties with the Plantagenet dynasty, and was placed under the patronage of Saint John the Baptist. Originally, the Carthusian fathers settled at Saint John’s Chapel (which I mentioned just above). Soon looking for a more spacious area to isolate themselves and pray, they established themselves on the current site as early as 1178. At the heart of their contemplative life was the great cloister, housing the community’s cemetery at its center (a specific feature of the Carthusian order). The monastery shone brightly at the time for its spirituality, as well as its intellectual wealth, thanks to a very substantial library. Crossing the second enclosure brings you into a courtyard flanked by identical pavilions designed by the Touraine architect Pierre Meusnier (built around 1740-1750), to whom we also owe the majestic entrance gateway.

However, the great architectural turning point for Le Liget took place a few decades later, on the eve of the Revolution. In 1787, prior Jean-Antoine Coueffé wanted to modernize, expand, and transform the Chartreuse. He entrusted the plans to the architect Jean-Bernard-Abraham Jacquemin, based on Rue des Ursulines in Tours. The program was considerable: the first phase of the work was estimated at 110,000 livres and notably provided for increasing the number of individual cells in the great cloister. The foundation stone was laid on September 6, 1787 (a historic stone that you can still see today in the current chapel). Confiscated and sold as national property during the Revolution, the Chartreuse saw its buildings partially dismantled and dispersed. Fortunately, Le Liget’s destiny took a salvaging turn in 1867. It was in that year that the grandfather of the current owner (Cosme Edmond de Marsay) bought back the estate, saving this heritage gem and passing it down from generation to generation.

Main facade of the Chartreuse du Liget with its central pathway and tree-lined gardens in the forest.

Historic stone ruins of the Chartreuse du Liget under a blue sky.

Ruins of the Chartreuse du Liget with its Romanesque stone gateway and flower gardens in Touraine.

Garden and open-air exhibition panels within the historic grounds of the Chartreuse du Liget.

Guide showing the historic architecture of the Chartreuse du Liget to a group of visitors in the cloister.

Monumental sculpted stone gateway of the Chartreuse du Liget with a pathway leading to the château in Indre-et-Loire.

Bell tower and stone walls of the Chartreuse du Liget surrounded by trees in a green park.

Monumental gateway of the Forest of Loches under a blue sky.

Access road to the Château de Loches surrounded by greenery, South Touraine.

Chartreuse du Liget
37460 Chemillé-sur-Indrois
Prices: €2 for the tour of the exterior and remains (free for children under 12) + €2 for the visit to the Saint-Jean du Liget chapel
Distance: about 10/11 km from Loches
Link to the Chartreuse website

Take a vintage moped ride

For the past 4 years now, Steve has been offering guided rides to discover the landscapes of the Indre Valley aboard Les Mobylettes de Marinette. Whether for a half-day escape or a full day of exploration, you get to ride iconic models that have left their mark on generations. From the 1960s to the 1990s, you’ll rediscover the authentic charm of legendary mopeds from brands like Motobécane or Peugeot. A unique retro experience that I really enjoyed, even though I was a bit reluctant at first. We finished the ride with a nice little aperitif hosted by Steve, who introduced us to a fantastic local wine.

Blue Motobécane 881M moped parked in front of an old stone building.

Group of people with vintage mopeds in front of a stone building during a Les Mobylettes de Marinette ride.

Red Peugeot GT 10 moped with a Felix Moto helmet resting on the handlebars in a field with a horse.

Woman wearing a helmet and glasses with her Motobécane 51 moped in front of a stone wall, surrounded by other riders.

Old vaulted stone bridge surrounded by lush vegetation in a green landscape during a ride.

Group of people on mopeds taking a break on a path alongside the forest.

Person petting a white cat with blue eyes in a garden.

Bottle of Boa Moa white wine with a glass on an outdoor table, Les Mobylettes de Marinette.

Activity tested in 2026

Les Mobylettes de Marinette
9 Mazère, 37310 Reignac-sur-Indre
Prices: “On N’est Pas Rendus A Loches!” tour €70 / “Des Vignes Et Des Mobs!” tour €100 including moped ride + food and wine pairing tasting (wines + local cold cuts and cheeses)
Distance: about 17 km from Loches
Link to the activity’s website

Stop by the flowered village of Chédigny

Chédigny, located along the Indrois river, is the only village in France to be entirely certified as a “Remarkable Garden” since 2013, as well as holding the “Fleur d’Or”, the highest distinction for flowered towns and villages. Its residents have shaped it over the years, transforming it into a lush garden where 1,000 rose bushes and over 4,000 perennial plants flourish. Much like “little free libraries”, you’ll also find “plant boxes” in the village for seed swapping, which I thought was simply wonderful!

Distance: about 11 km from Loches

Read my full article on the village of Chédigny

Old post office and yellow mailbox in Chédigny, near Loches, covered in roses.

Traditional house with red shutters and a flowered garden in Chédigny, South Touraine.

Yellow goldenrod flowers blooming near the Royal City of Loches.

Green door at number 13, white stone facade, and climbing roses in Chédigny.

Charming street in Chédigny near Loches with a woman sitting on a low wall.

Visit the village of Montrésor

Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Montrésor gets its poetic name from the legend of a “Treasure Mountain” (Mont du trésor). Perched above the peaceful Indrois valley, Montrésor boasts charming medieval alleyways, flowered tuffeau stone facades, and lovely bucolic walks along the water. It features a blend of medieval and Renaissance heritage, and its landscaped riverbanks offer wonderful viewpoints of the ramparts and the famous Château de Montrésor.

Distance: approximately 17 km from Loches

Château de Montrésor towering over the tiled roofs of the medieval village in the Loire Valley.

Marble effigy at the Château de Montrésor featuring praying figures and religious wall bas-reliefs.

Visiting the Château de Montrésor

The village is also very well known for its château, whose history began in the 11th century under the impetus of Foulques Nerra, before being remodeled during the Renaissance by Imbert de Batarnay, a trusted advisor to 4 kings of France. Bought in ruins in 1849 by the Polish Count Xavier Branicki, the building underwent major restoration in the Napoleon III style before housing its new owner’s art collection. Today, you can admire paintings by François Gérard and Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun, as well as a part of Cardinal Fesch’s collection in the Italian boudoir. Uninhabited since 1950 (the family now lives in the outbuildings), the château is visited like a living, preserved home.

Group of people in medieval costumes in front of the facade of the Château de Montrésor in France.

Marble statue of the Genius of Evil sitting on a rock in the gardens of the Château de Montrésor.

Elegant reception table with fine tableware, crystal glasses, and a floral centerpiece at the Montrésor estate.

Paintings of female portraits in the salon of the Château de Montrésor with antique wallpaper and a lamp.

Château visited in 2026

Château de Montrésor
37 460 Montrésor
Prices : 11 € adult / 9 € reduced / 7 € child aged 8-12
Link to the château’s website

Take a costumed tour of the village of Montrésor

For a playful and picturesque touch, don’t miss the initiative by the association “Montrésor se raconte” which we tested. It invites you to roam the streets decked out in period costumes pulled from their fantastic collection, worthy of the best dress-up attic in the world! On the agenda, La Salle des Costumes offers no less than 500 medieval and Renaissance costumes for rent, suitable for both kids and adults. You are bound to find something you love, and you’ll also have the fun experience of being photographed by all the passing tourists!

Woman in traditional costume sitting on a dock facing the Château de Montrésor by the Indrois river.

Racks of costumes for rent with a 'Montrésor Costume Rental' sign and accessories in a wicker basket.

Woman in medieval costume posing in a cobbled alleyway in the village of Montrésor.

La Salle des Costumes
32 Grande rue 37460 Montrésor
Costume rental rates per person: stroll package (3h in the village) 10 € / selfie package (1h of unlimited fittings in the room) 15 € / day package 15 € / weekend package 20 €
Booking by appointment at 06 08 05 39 64

Visiting the village of Louroux

If you’re passing through the area, be sure to stop by the very authentic village of Louroux to see its imposing fortified priory. You can also take a stroll around its lake and go birdwatching at the ornithological observatory, a vast wetland area that is home to a rich biodiversity. It’s a very pleasant walk to do if you have a little time.

Distance: approximately 20 km from Loches

Female hiker looking through a natural hide, Loches South Touraine.

Old village street leading to the church of Loches under a blue sky.

Woman hiking on a boardwalk under the trees near Loches.

Fishing by a body of water with a chair and fishing rod, South Touraine.

Medieval enclosure of Loches with its tower and bell tower under a blue sky.

Visiting the Prehistory Museum of Le Grand-Pressigny

Nestled between the commune’s Renaissance château and the remains of a medieval fortress, this museum traces 200,000 years of human evolution. Right from the entrance, life-sized reconstructions of prehistoric animals and humans immerse us in the lives of our ancestors. The exhibition invites you to explore their daily lives through a very rich prehistoric collection from Touraine, focusing on the region’s great archaeological renown: the famous flint from Le Grand-Pressigny, worked by peerless master flintknappers and exported all over Europe at the time. Lively and interactive, the venue regularly offers educational workshops (we were lucky enough to take part in a workshop that taught us how to make fire “like in prehistoric times”, which was super interesting) as well as temporary exhibitions, such as “Tropical Touraine”, which we had the opportunity to discover and which is running until September 30, 2026.

Courtyard of the Prehistory Museum in Le Grand-Pressigny with its prehistoric animal statues and Renaissance château.

Exhibition of archaeological artifacts at the Prehistory Museum of Le Grand-Pressigny inside a historic stone building.

Mammoth statues in front of the entrance of the Prehistory Museum in Le Grand-Pressigny.

Friction fire-making demonstration kit at the Prehistory Museum of Le Grand-Pressigny.

Exhibition room of the Prehistory Museum in Le Grand-Pressigny showcasing chipped stone tools in display cases.

Modern interior architecture with stairs and documentation displays at the Prehistory Museum of Le Grand-Pressigny.

Museum visited in 2026

Musée de la Préhistoire du Grand-Pressigny
Rue des Remparts, 37350 Le Grand-Pressigny
Prices : 7.50 € adult / 6.50 € reduced / free for under 7s / workshop 5 € to 10 € depending on age and activity
Distance : approximately 31 km from Loches
Link to the museum’s website

Visiting the Piquemouche farm

Settling in South Touraine is a true love story that has lasted for 13 years for Catherine and Thomas, a couple who came straight from Brussels. On their preserved three-hectare estate, surrounded by meadows and woods offering stunning views of the valley, they have shaped an organic farm dedicated to aromatic and medicinal plants. Launched in 2020, their business reaches its 7th season in 2026 with multiple activities: wild harvesting blends with traditional crops, and the farm crafts about a hundred plants on site.

People come here just as much to wander freely through the discovery garden (just inaugurated in June 2026, and we were among the very first to test it), as to take a guided tour or join a discovery workshop where you get “hands-on with plants,” with the tour concluding with a tasting of the farm’s products. And by the way, don’t miss a trip to their shop for advice and maybe to buy one of their products: condiments, liqueurs, syrups, herbal teas, artisanal plant-based cosmetics, herbal medicine… Finally, you’ll also find an eco-gîte on site that can accommodate up to 8 people (3 bedrooms) in a traditional Touraine longhouse.

Woman standing in front of the wooden building at the Piquemouche aromatic garden.

Group of visitors in front of the wooden building at the Piquemouche aromatic garden.

Group of people visiting the Piquemouche aromatic garden with its wooden log shelter.

People harvesting roses in the Piquemouche aromatic garden.

Small green grasshopper resting in the heart of a pink rose in the Piquemouche aromatic garden.

Shop at the Piquemouche aromatic garden offering natural products, essential oils, and books on medicinal plants.

Address tested in 2026

Piquemouche
Piquemouche, 37290 Charnizay
The tip : free access tour of part of the garden + free visit to the drying shed during opening hours
Distance: approximately 30 km from Loches
Link to the location’s website

Take a walk in Boussay

Nestled in the shelter of a wooded valley, the village of Boussay is full of charm. The town is centered around an elegant château surrounded by water-filled moats. Founded in 1024 and preserved by the same family since its creation, the estate (listed as a Historic Monument) offers a fine architectural panorama blending styles from the 15th to the 18th century. While the interior remains private, the great thing is that its park is freely and openly accessible year-round (from 9 AM to 6 PM), offering a bucolic stroll by the water. The village also invites artistic wandering thanks to the country walk “In the Footsteps of Jean Dufy”: a 2-kilometer loop marked by 8 panels reproducing works by the painter (brother of Raoul Dufy) which also passes in front of his former home.

Distance: approximately 40 km from Loches

Stone facade of the Château de Boussay with its machicolations and flowered garden by the moat.

Château de Boussay with its historical facades and central avenue under a blue sky dotted with clouds.

Outdoor information panel showcasing four works by the painter Jean Dufy in a natural landscape in Boussay.

Information panel featuring a painting by Jean Dufy depicting the village of Boussay in a summer field.

Thank you to the Loches Touraine Châteaux de la Loire Tourist Office for organizing these two getaways, and to Emilie from Agence AirPur. Thanks also to my travel girlfriends, and be sure to check out their articles on Loches: Copines de Bons Plans; Esprit Globe Trotteuse; Clichés d’Ailleurs.

View of Loches from a garden, thoughtful woman.

I hope all this has made you want to discover Loches and South Touraine, and if you too have your own favorite addresses and tips for this destination, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Photo credits: Nicolas Diolez and Melle Bon Plan
Photos are not royalty-free; photographer's permission is mandatory prior to any use

This article contains affiliate links. If you click on certain links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.