4 must-do activities near Tours

Staying near Tours means taking a escapade into the heart of the Loire Valley, between majestic châteaux, picturesque villages and rolling landscapes. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast or gourmet connoisseur, a host of experiences await you just minutes from Tours.

Châteaux de la loire près de tours

1) Discovering the Loire Castles

To stay in Ballan-Miré is to enjoy a peaceful setting in the heart of Loire Châteaux country. Located just outside Tours, this charming commune offers an ideal starting point for discovering the treasures of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In just a few kilometers, you can set off to discover splendid castles, refined gardens and medieval fortresses.

At the heart of the Loire Valley, several exceptional châteaux open their doors to you: true treasures of history and architecture, they each offer a unique experience not to be missed during your stay:

  1. Château de Villandry: Famous for its sumptuous terraced gardens, this Renaissance château is a must-see for lovers of nature and refined architecture.
  2. Château de Chenonceau: Elegant and refined, this unique château built on the Cher River charms with its history marked by great female figures.
  3. Château de Chambord: A monumental Renaissance masterpiece, it is the largest and most majestic of the Loire Châteaux. It impresses with its double-revolution staircase and immense forest estate.
  4. Château d'Azay-le-Rideau: Set on an island in the middle of the Indre River, this Renaissance gem seduces with its elegance and reflections in the water.
  5. Château de Langeais: With its medieval allure, massive towers and drawbridges, it immerses visitors in the atmosphere of the great tales of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

2) Walks, sports & outings: the best activities around Tours

Among the must-do activities near Tours, the Loire à Vélo occupies a prime position.

Thiscycling itinerary, accessible to all, lets you explore the landscapes of the Loire Valley, linking picturesque villages, majestic castles and renowned vineyards.

To entertain young and old alike, several theme parks dot the region. Lulu Parc and Parc des Mini-Châteaux particularly appeal to children with their fun and educational activities, perfect for enriching the stay with amusing discoveries.

meilleures activités autour de tours

Walking enthusiasts will also find plenty to do withhiking in Touraine. The signposted trails cross forests, vineyards and the banks of the Loire, offering varied panoramas and a real breath of fresh air to share with family or friends.

For those who prefer water to paths, canoeing or kayaking on the Loire and Cher rivers offers a unique experience. Gliding along with the current lets you admire local wildlife, wild islands and troglodytic cliffs, in an atmosphere that's both peaceful and exotic.

Just a few minutes from the campsite, in Joué-lès-Tours, le lac des Bretonnières is an ideal place for a relaxing outing. Sailing, paddling, fishing or a simple picnic by the water: there's something for everyone here.

villages incontournables autour de tours

3) Villages and living heritage in Touraine

Near Tours, many historic villages and towns invite you to travel back in time. Between medieval alleyways, troglodytic cellars and lively squares, Touraine is full of treasures to discover for lovers of heritage and authenticity.

  • Vouvray, a wine village famous for its rock-cut cellars and fine wines. It combines rural charm with the unique heritage of the Loire Valley.
  • Loches, with its cobbled streets and impressive royal keep. The local market is one of the most renowned in Touraine.
  • Chinon and its picturesque setting, between its medieval fortress and the banks of the Vienne.
  • Amboise, its historic center, lively alleyways and markets.
  • Tours and its half-timbered houses especially on Place Plumereau. The city combines heritage, culture and the French art of living.

4) Local flavors and specialties not to be missed

Discovering Touraine also means tasting its gourmet specialties. The region seduces with its renowned wines, characterful cheeses and traditional recipes that delight lovers of good food.

  • Loire wines (Vouvray, Montlouis, Chinon)
    The vineyards of Touraine are among the most renowned in the Loire Valley. These Loire wines offer exceptional vintages that you can taste in typical troglodytic cellars.
  • Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine cheese
    A culinary symbol of the region, this AOC goat's cheese is renowned for its refined taste. We recommend pairing it with a glass of local white wine for a unique gastronomic experience.
  • Gourmet specialties (rillons de Touraine, rillettes de Tours...)
    Rillettes de Tours and fouées garnies are among the must-tries of Touraine cuisine. You can enjoy them in markets and traditional inns alike.
  • Touraine's traditional markets (les Halles de Tours, Amboise market, Langeais market, Bourgeuil market...)
    Every village in Touraine has its own weekly market, rich in fresh, local produce. It's the ideal place to discover regional flavors and take home a gourmet basket.

Stay at the 4-star La Mignardière campsite near Tours

For your stay in the Touraine region, the camping La Mignardière 4* offers an ideal setting to relax after your days of discovery. Set in a quiet, friendly environment, it features ancoveredand heated swimming pool, a outdoor heated pool, a paddling pool as well as a playground for the little ones.

To explore the surrounding area at your own pace, the campsite also offers services including bicycle hire, perfect for setting off to discover the surrounding villages, castles and trails. A stay at La Mignardière means combining comfort and proximity to the riches of Touraine.

camping près de tours