Heading for Northern Touraine: here, we take our time
Nestled between the Loire and Loir valleys, Northern Touraine reveals a different side to the region. Just a stone’s throw from the grand châteaux, the Gâtine region of Touraine cultivates a more understated identity, characterised by charming villages, unspoilt landscapes and a heritage closely linked to the poets Ronsard and Racan.
A region where you can take the time to discover a more intimate side of Touraine.
![Passerelle piéton en bois dans les marais de Charentilly]()
Michel Gauguin Wetland, Rue du Clos des Poiriers, 37390 Charentilly
Spot No. 1: the Charentilly marsh
If you had to choose just one walk to explore the landscapes of the Gâtine region in the Touraine, the Charentilly walk would be an excellent place to start. The area is brimming with country paths offering a variety of atmospheres, but this one is one of our favourites. A charming walk that reveals the full diversity of the landscapes and the authenticity of Northern Touraine.
Practical information: to start the walk, head to the car park at Charentilly Primary School. A sign at the start will guide you along this lovely route.
Zone humide Michel Gauguin, Rue du Clos des Poiriers, 37390 Charentilly
![Abbaye de la Clarté Dieu]()
La Clarté Dieu, 37370 Saint-Paterne-Racan
Spot No. 2: Clarté-Dieu Abbey – a journey through time
Tucked away in the charming village of Saint-Paterne-Racan lies the Abbey of La Clarté-Dieu, a place steeped in history founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. Although the church and some of the buildings have disappeared over time, the site still preserves some valuable remains, including the remarkable lay brothers’ building with its imposing timber framework dating from 1274.
Built in terraces on top of former tuffeau quarries, the abbey also features its 17th-century abbatial residence, its former Renaissance priory and several outbuildings that bear witness to the monks’ daily life.
Today, this exceptional heritage site continues to write its story thanks to the passionate commitment of its owners, who work every day to restore and preserve it. A wonderful opportunity to discover an authentic place, where the old stones continue to come back to life.
This summer, why not take the opportunity to stop off at the abbey cellar: a pop-up bar open during the summer season, set against this extraordinary backdrop.
La Clarté Dieu, 37370 Saint-Paterne-Racan
![Château de la Motte, à Sonzay]()
Château de la Motte, in Sonzay
Highlight No. 3: Private residences are opening their doors this summer
What if you were to step inside places that are usually closed to the public? Every summer, the Estivales du Patrimoine, organised by the Gâtine-Racan Community of Communes, offer a rare opportunity to explore private homes and learn about their histories.
For one day only, the owners welcome you to share the secrets of their homes, before you enjoy a show or a concert in an exceptional setting. The evening draws to a close with a convivial get-together, perfect for chatting and meeting new people.
Among the places worth discovering, the Château de la Motte in Sonzay opens its doors every summer for the festival and offers a unique experience featuring a fresh take on classical theatre. It’s a wonderful way to discover this magnificent château in a different light.This year, the Vieille Donneterie manor house is also opening its doors for the first time on Friday 7 August. On the programme: a swashbuckling show presented by the Taprobane theatre company! Led by three actor-stuntmen, this historical farce will blend humour, self-deprecation, colourful characters and spectacular fencing duels, set against a backdrop spanning the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Find the full programme for the Estivales du Patrimoine here.![La Scénoféerie de Semblançay]()
La Scénoféerie de Semblançay, son et lumières historique
Highlight No. 4: the Scénoféerie in Semblançay – history brought to life
This summer, the Scénoféerie returns until 15 August, bringing the history of its venue – La Source – to life. Every Friday and Saturday evening, immerse yourself in a spectacular open-air show retracing several centuries of history, from the Gallo-Roman period right through to the French Revolution.
In the grounds of the residence of Jacques de Beaune, Superintendent of Finances to François I, let yourself be swept away by this historical re-enactment brought to life by the association’s 600 volunteers. Costumes, scenery, music and emotion come together to create a timeless evening… culminating in a finale that will leave you starry-eyed!
Article written in collaboration with the Gatine Racan Community of Communes
