Loches Travel Guide (Centre-Val de Loire/France/Europe)

Introduction to Loches

Loches is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley in Centre-Val de Loire, France. This medieval town boasts stunning architecture, rich history, and a charming countryside setting. With its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, Loches is a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best of Loches, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Loches

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Château de Loches: This imposing castle was once a stronghold of French royalty. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
Tour Saint-Antoine: This tower is one of the few remaining vestiges of the town’s medieval fortifications. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the countryside.
Church of Saint-Ours: This Romanesque church dates back to the 11th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere.

Natural Attractions of Loches: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parc des Bouchardières: This beautiful park offers scenic walking paths, a lake, and lush greenery. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Le Petit Train de Loches: Hop aboard this charming little train for a guided tour of the town’s surrounding countryside. You’ll explore vineyards, charming villages, and scenic rural landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Loches

Loches is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and biking routes in and around the town that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes include:

Le Chemin de la Loire à Vélo: This 900-kilometer bike route runs along the Loire River, passing through beautiful countryside scenery, quaint villages, and fascinating historical sites.
Le Chemin des Remparts: This scenic walking trail follows the town’s medieval fortifications, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Loches: Activities and Tours

Loches en Voiture Ancienne: Experience the charm and beauty of Loches in a classic vintage car. A guided tour of the town’s landmarks, vineyards, and stunning landscapes is sure to leave you enchanted.
Loches Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Indre River. This challenging activity is perfect for adventure-seekers and those looking to push their limits.
Cooking Classes: Learn the art of French cuisine in a private cooking class. You’ll work with a local chef to prepare delicious dishes using locally-sourced ingredients.

Week-Long Itinerary for Loches

Day 1: Explore the town’s historical landmarks, including the Château de Loches, Tour Saint-Antoine, and Church of Saint-Ours.

Day 2: Cycle along the Chemin de la Loire à Vélo, a scenic bike route that passes through charming villages and vineyards.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of the surrounding countryside in a vintage car or on foot.

Day 4: Spend the day whitewater rafting on the Indre River and enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

Day 5: Learn the art of French cuisine in a private cooking class.

Day 6: Take a scenic train ride through the Loire Valley to discover other nearby towns and attractions.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Parc des Bouchardières.

Food and Drink Scene of Loches

Must-Try Dishes

Rillettes: This pork pâté is a local specialty and is often served as an appetizer or snack.
Tarte Tatin: This classic French dessert is made with caramelized apples and a flaky pastry crust.
Truffe de Touraine: These black truffles are grown in the region and are used to flavor a variety of dishes, including omelets and pasta.

Local Beverages

Wine: The Loire Valley is famous for its wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chinon, and Vouvray.
Cider: This refreshing apple-based drink is a popular alternative to wine.
Beer: The region has a thriving craft beer scene, with a range of microbreweries and bars serving local brews.

Where to Stay in Loches: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Le Clos Saint-Eloi: This charming hotel is located in the heart of the town and offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.
Les Troglos de Beaulieu: These unique cave-like accommodations offer a truly unforgettable experience and are located just a short drive from the town center.
Chambres d’Hôtes du Fort: This cozy bed and breakfast is located in a historic building and is known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Loches: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Goat Cheese: The region is known for its delicious goat cheese, which is sold in many local markets and shops.
Garden Plants: The Loire Valley is famous for its lush gardens, and many nurseries in the region sell a wide range of plants and seeds.
Lavender Products: The region is full of fragrant lavender fields, and many shops sell lavender-scented products, including soaps, lotions, and candles.

Local Culture and Customs of Loches

The people of Loches are friendly and hospitable, and visitors are often struck by the town’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The region is known for its rich history and culture, and visitors are encouraged to explore the town’s museums, historic sites, and natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit Loches

The best time to visit Loches is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the countryside is in full bloom. The town can be quite busy during peak tourist season, so visitors may want to consider visiting in the shoulder season for a more relaxed experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Loches

Do:

Explore the town’s historic landmarks, including the Château de Loches and Tour Saint-Antoine.
Try the local cuisine and beverages, including goat cheese and Loire Valley wines.
Take advantage of the region’s natural beauty and enjoy a hike or bike ride through the countryside.

Don’t:

Miss out on the opportunity to visit the surrounding towns and attractions, including the stunning châteaux of the Loire Valley.
Forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as many of Loches’ attractions are best explored on foot.
Rely solely on public transportation, as many of the region’s hidden gems are located off the beaten path.

Safety and Health

Safety in Loches

Loches is a very safe town, but visitors should always take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as keeping valuable items secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Loches

The town has several medical facilities, including a hospital and clinics, and visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to Loches: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Loches

The nearest airports to Loches are Tours Val de Loire Airport and Poitiers-Biard Airport, both of which offer regular flights to and from major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Loches

Loches has a bus station that connects to other nearby towns and attractions, including the châteaux of the Loire Valley.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Loches by train, with regular services available from Paris and other major French cities.

How to Get Around in Loches

The town is compact and can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and car rentals are also available for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Loches: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Châteaux of the Loire Valley: The stunning châteaux of the Loire Valley offer a glimpse into France’s royal past and are a must-visit for any history enthusiast.
Amboise: This charming town is located just a short drive from Loches and is known for its beautiful castle and picturesque old town.
ZooParc de Beauval: This popular zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including pandas and big cats, and is located just a short drive from Loches.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or cuisine, Loches has something to offer everyone. From its impressive castle and historic sites to its picturesque countryside and charming town center, Loches is a destination that’s sure to leave you enchanted and eager to return. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your next trip to this beautiful town and its surrounding region.