Discover the most beautiful villages in the Centre-Val de Loire region

The Centre-Val de Loire region is rich in history and boasts a wide variety of landscapes, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Among the many treasures this region has to offer, some villages stand out for their exceptional beauty and unique cultural heritage. We invite you to discover some of the most beautiful villages in the Centre-Val de Loire.

1. Montrésor, a medieval village full of charm

Situated in the Indre-et-Loire department, Montrésor is a small medieval village with an authentic charm and tranquillity all of its own. Dominated by its impressive Renaissance château, the village offers visitors a pleasant stroll along its narrow, flower-filled streets.

The church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste is also home to some magnificent 16th-century frescoes that are not to be missed.

Must-sees in Montrésor :

• The Renaissance château
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste church
• Half-timbered houses

2. Lavardin, a village of history and artists

Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Lavardin is steeped in history, as evidenced by the imposing ruins of its feudal castle and the remains of the Romanesque church of Saint-Genest. The village is also renowned for having been the home of famous artists such as Max Ernst and Dorothea Tanning. Art lovers can admire original works in the village’s many galleries.

Must-sees in Lavardin :

• The ruins of the feudal castle
• The Romanesque church of Saint-Genest
• The art galleries

3. Yèvre-le-Châtel, a fortified village with medieval charm

Yèvre-le-Châtel is one of the few remaining fortified villages in France. This picturesque village in the Loiret region has preserved its medieval walls, ramparts and fortified gateway. Strolling through the cobbled streets, visitors will discover the remains of the seigniorial castle, as well as the church of Saint-Lubin and its magnificent murals.

Not to be missed in Yèvre-le-Châtel :

• The medieval walls and fortified gateway
• The remains of the seigniorial castle
• The church of Saint-Lubin

4. Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a village in the heart of the châteaux valley

Ideally situated between the famous châteaux of Chambord and Cheverny, Fougères-sur-Bièvre is a charming village well worth a visit during your stay in the Centre-Val de Loire region. The village is home to a remarkable 15th-century fortified castle and a Gothic church whose bell tower dates back to the 11th century. Walkers can also enjoy the peaceful banks of the River Bièvre.

Must-sees in Fougères-sur-Bièvre :

• The fortified castle
• The Gothic church of Saint-Eloi
• The banks of the River Bièvre

The Centre-Val de Loire region is bursting with picturesque villages steeped in history that will delight visitors in search of cultural discovery. Whether you want to admire the medieval architecture, stroll through the narrow streets or contemplate the bucolic landscapes, these villages are not to be missed on your next trip to the Centre-Val de Loire.