Château-Du-Loir: between the Collegiate Church and the Loir cycling route

Château-Du-Loir brings together several historical periods, markets in the town centre and a section of the Vallée du Loir à vélo route. For planning your trip, there is plenty to explore, from the Collegiate Church and a diverse collection to market days and paths through the Loir countryside.

Cultural history in the town centre

The Collégiale St Guingalois was built around 1070. Its crypt housed relics of Saint Guénolé (St Guingalois), which Breton monks brought to Château-Du-Loir in 878 while fleeing the Vikings. The Gothic choir dates from the 13th century; the church’s listed organs date from before 1719. The same building therefore reflects several historical periods: the events surrounding the relics, the construction of the church, and the later elements of the choir and organs.

The Place de l’Hôtel de Ville is also linked to the town’s history. It was created around 1780 and developed into a place where residents could meet and exchange ideas. The square stands on the former site of a feudal castle, built on a tuff terrace about twelve metres high. The bandstand near the town hall was inaugurated in 1927.

In the centre of Château-Du-Loir, the Cabinet de curiosités displays paintings and a varied collection of objects. These were brought together about a century ago through donations from residents, artists and the state, as well as purchases made by the municipality. A new selection of objects and artworks is planned for each display, and is intended to remain on view for two years. If you are planning a visit, check the current opening hours and seasonal arrangements in advance.

Markets and town life

Traditional markets are held in Château-Du-Loir all year round on Wednesdays and Saturdays. On Wednesdays, the market is in the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville; on Saturdays, it is in the Place Lemonnier and on Avenue Jean Jaurès. The two market days therefore take place in different locations in the town centre. Before your trip, check whether the current market days fit your schedule.

The link between the market and the square’s history is especially tangible at the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville: the square, which became a gathering place for residents, is also where the Wednesday market is held. You can combine a visit to the market with a look at the history of this central square, while keeping the two market days and their locations straight.

Cycling route and getting there

The section of the Vallée du Loir à vélo route near Château-Du-Loir first runs above the town before descending towards the Loir. The route follows small roads through green countryside with ponds, meadows and bocage hedgerows. The change from the higher route down to the river is a notable feature of this section.

Regional bus route 25 connects Le Mans, Château-Du-Loir and Tours. As routes and timetables can change, check the latest information before setting off. Château-Du-Loir station has 20 secure bicycle parking spaces; availability may vary. If you are planning to travel by bicycle, check in advance about the parking spaces if needed.

The Rotonde ferroviaire de Montabon

A nearby destination for railway history, the Rotonde ferroviaire de Montabon features further distinctive architectural details: this rare railway roundhouse dates from 1890 and has a 24-metre turntable and ten interior tracks. Check seasonal access arrangements before visiting.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Thoiré-sur-Dinan, La Suze-Sur-Sarthe, Bousse, Le Grand-Lucé, Mézeray, Écommoy, Chenu, Beaumont-Pied-De-Boeuf.

For the regional travel overview: Sarthe.