Discover Sologne, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Loire Valley, two hours from London. Between forests and ponds, let yourself be charmed by its pretty little villages with their typical red brick and half-timbered houses.
Ligny-le-Ribault
Start your visit in Ligny-le-Ribault. As soon as you arrive, you will be immersed in the rural atmosphere of the place: brick and half-timbered houses, an old wash house transformed into a picnic area and, above all, the Sologne forest as far as the eye can see. An eco-museum welcomes you to discover the life of the village artisans in the 1900s. Come back to the present to visit the goats at the Roves ranch. This farm offers its goat’s cheese on a short circuit: fresh, dry, ash-coated or in a mini version for the aperitif, the choice is yours!
Jouy-le-Potier
In Jouy-le-Potier, all the charm and beauty of the Sologne region is on display. Typical houses, old farms, elegant castles, pretty church… all surrounded by woods and ponds. On your stroll, step into the Jardin de Chantal for a moment out of time. The hundreds of flowers in this magnificent garden invite you to dream. Feel free to sit on a bench to enjoy this oasis of greenery and the serenity of the place. For the more adventurous, Jouy-le-Potier is the starting point for hot-air balloon flights. Take off with Ballons de Loire for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sologne and the Loire.
Ménestreau-en-Villette
Stroll through the streets of this charming little village before exploring the Domaine du Ciran, a veritable observatory of the local flora and fauna. Soak up the atmosphere as you wander through the mysterious Sologne forest. During your walk, you are sure to catch sight of the fifteen or so stags and does that live in the park. For an unforgettable experience, come during the deer rut in September. On your way out, take a break at the Ferme du Ciran, located next to the Domain. You will find goat’s cheese produced on the farm, fruit and vegetable baskets, honey, fruit juices and local eggs.
Souvigny-en-Sologne
Don’t miss Souvigny-en-Sologne and take the time to stroll through its pretty streets lined with houses decorated with flowers. The church of Saint-Martin occupies a central position here, surrounded by greenery, flowerbeds and benches that invite you to take a break. This church is distinguished by its ‘caquetoire’, a place for socialising but also for low-voiced gossip. Directly opposite, you can see the sculpted bust of Eugène Labiche, a famous playwright and former mayor of the town.
Chaumont-sur-Tharonne
During your stroll through this charming village in Sologne, you will meet many people! Wander through the squares and alleyways to discover the sculptures and works of art in Chaumont-sur-Tharonne. Listen to the story of a passionate aviator, a talkative old lady or the natural son of Napoleon Bonaparte. This unusual walk also takes you into the surrounding woods where animals carved directly into the trees await you.
Saint-Viâtre
In this typical village, the walk alternates between the Sologne forest and ponds. Start by visiting the Maison des Étangs to understand the place they occupy in the local landscape, but also their cultural, economic and ecological role through fish farming. Then follow the path around the Le Mouet pond. A picnic break is a must to enjoy this unspoilt environment. During the summer, extend the evening at the Saint-Viâtre open-air café, which is of course located by a pond. Relaxation and good humour will be the order of the evening!
Romorantin- Lanthenay
Welcome to Romorantin-Lanthenay, capital of the Sologne region! Explore this authentic town and take the guided tour to discover its history and its close links with Leonardo da Vinci and Francis I. You can also discover the natural environment, history and local traditions at the Sologne Museum, where temporary exhibitions complement the permanent collections.
Chaon
Passing through Chaon? Stop to visit this little village in Sologne. The peace and quiet of the place will disconnect you from your daily routine as you stroll through the narrow streets. The Maison du Braconnage (Poaching Museum) invites you to discover the history of this clandestine tradition of the Sologne. This fun museum offers a tour of its five exhibition rooms that is suitable for children.
Marcilly-en-Gault
This small village will be the ideal starting point for the perfect family day out. Start by discovering its houses, squares and alleyways. Then, by bike or on foot, follow the Route des Étangs to discover this natural wealth so typical of the region. Take time out to admire these stretches of water in the middle of the Sologne forest, and you’ll feel cut off from the world. You’re sure to catch a glimpse of the ballet of birds on the lakes. Don’t forget your binoculars so you don’t miss any of the action!
La Ferté-Imbault
The Sologne forest hide many châteaux, but this village is home to a magnificent one: the Château of La Ferté-Imbault. It is a real pride of the village, and has been tastefully restored by its new owners, who have also carefully landscaped the gardens. By prior arrangement, you can take a guided tour of part of the château and its grounds. And if you really want to get away from it all, follow one of the village’s signposted walking tracks, so you can admire the lakes and take your time walking through the Sologne forest.
Lamotte-Beuvron
We finish this discovery of the most beautiful villages in Sologne with a visit to Lamotte-Beuvron. This is where that the Tarte Tatin was invented by the sisters of the same name. Head to La Maison Tatin to taste this famous upside-down tart, whose recipe we provide here. This establishment also offers rooms for overnight stays and a spa for a relaxing break. In fine weather, enjoy an evening by the water at the Le M.A.X. guinguette. With family or friends, the friendly atmosphere and bucolic setting are sure to charm you!
Thematics
