Civray-sur-Esves can be explored through a variety of themes: the architectural history of Saint-Rémi parish church, the mills along the waterways, the historic site of La Pierre, and hiking and horse riding. This makes the area an interesting choice when planning a trip where no single attraction is the deciding factor. You can consider cultural history and activities as separate points of interest and plan your stay according to which of these aspects you would like to explore more closely.
The architectural history of Saint-Rémi
Several distinct periods can be clearly identified at Saint-Rémi. The nave and the lower part of the bell tower date from the 12th century; the church was remodelled in the 15th century. Since 12 June 1926, the parish church has been listed as a historic monument, and the protected status covers the entire church. The chronology helps distinguish the building’s history from its later protected status: the medieval origins of some parts, the remodelling and the listing are three separate milestones.
La Pierre: landscape and history
The rocky, domed hill of La Pierre rises above the confluence of the Ruisseau de la Roche and a tributary of the Esves. A castle was built here in 1508. The remains at La Pierre include a dovecote dating from the early 16th century, with two partly collapsed walls and probably more than 1,500 nesting niches. In 1832, the estate still included part of a large enclosure wall flanked by three towers; by 1990, only remnants of the wall were visible. The site’s construction and use can thus be traced from the founding of the castle, through the building features dating from the early 16th century, to the later visible remains of the enclosure wall.
Mills along the waterways
The mills also offer different historical reference points. The origins of the Moulin de Civray are dated to 1336; in 1699, it was operating as a fulling mill. The Moulin de Feschaux lies west of Civray-sur-Esves, in the area where the Esves, Ligoire and Riolle meet. Its construction on the Esves is thought to date to the 14th century. In comparing the two, the Moulin de Civray is notable for two specific dates relating to its origins and use, while Feschaux is characterised by a cautiously phrased construction date and its location at the confluence. This makes the two mill-related sites distinct in more than just their names.
Get active: hiking and horse riding
There are also specific ways to get active. The Grande Boucle in Civray-sur-Esves is 21.7 km long. The Civray-sur-Esves loop is marked in blue. The length and colour answer different navigational questions: the first gives the distance of the Grande Boucle, while the second identifies the loop’s markings. The Centre Équestre de Civray-sur-Esves offers trail rides. Riding lessons are available for all levels. For year-round training, the centre has indoor riding arenas. Alongside hiking, visitors can therefore choose between two distinct horse-riding options: trail rides and lessons.
Discover more destinations: Château-Renault, Beaumont-En-Véron, Charnizay, Berthenay, Truyes, Braye-Sous-Faye, Trogues, Seuilly
For the broader travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.
