Molineuf: Nature, Trails and Culture

Molineuf brings together a riverside landscape along the Cisse, hiking trails, the Church of Saint-Secondin and recurring cultural events. Depending on whether you want to include nature trails, architectural history, art or theatre, you’ll find a range of ways to plan your stay.

Nature Along the Cisse and Trails in Molineuf

The Promenade des Rinceaux is a wetland of about 10 hectares on the outskirts of Molineuf, in the direction of Chambon-sur-Cisse. It runs for just over 400 metres along the left bank of the Cisse. Its trails include 450 metres of wooden boardwalk and 1,200 metres of landscaped paths. A footbridge built in 2018 connects the promenade with hiking trails near the Church of Saint-Secondin.

The “Entre moulins et châteaux de Valencisse” hiking trail follows stretches of the Cisse’s banks, in the shade of the slopes, and is marked with FFRandonnée 41 waymarks. You can park for the trail in the Molineuf town hall car park, which is close to the Cisse. The Trail des Moulins starts and finishes at Parc du Moulin des Charmes in Molineuf; individual course arrangements may vary. La Molineuvoise organises hikes and mountain bike rides in Molineuf and the surrounding area. There are several trail options: the Trail has a designated start and finish, while stretches along the riverbank and trail markings guide you along “Entre moulins et châteaux de Valencisse”.

The Church of Saint-Secondin and Its Architectural History

The west portal and the sculpted corbels on the south wall of the Church of Saint-Secondin point to a presumed date of origin in the 12th century. The stone bell tower was built against the south wall in the 14th century. These dates point to different historical periods: the church’s cautiously dated origins and the tower, added later. Since 8 July 2008, the entire church has been listed as a Monument historique by decree.

Art, Theatre and Other Aspects of the Village

The Promenade Artistique de Molineuf welcomes more than fifty artists each year; the number of participants may vary from one edition to another. Works of art are exhibited at around twenty different venues, including exhibition halls, cellars and gardens. This annual event is spread across a variety of types of exhibition spaces.

The Théâtre du Hérisson de Molineuf also has a long history: the amateur theatre group was founded in 1979. It stages plays of various styles every year, usually in March. Its repertoire includes comedies, crime plays and café-théâtre; some years also feature an outdoor performance. The specific programme varies.

La Ferme des Oliviers is an animal sanctuary and educational farm in Molineuf, with 250 to 300 animals. Visiting arrangements may vary; check them in advance if you’re planning a visit.

The name Molineuf is also linked to a historical interpretation: it is associated with “moulin neuf”, meaning “new mill”. Château de Bury is also located in the wider municipality of Valencisse. It was built by Florimond Robertet, recognised in the 16th century as a precursor to the Renaissance château, and is now a ruin.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Aignan, Saint-Gourgon, Onzain, Neung-Sur-Beuvron, Villebarou, Salbris, Candé-Sur-Beuvron, Villexanton

For the wider travel overview: Loir-Et-Cher.