La Croix-En-Touraine can be explored through a range of specific interests: the Church of Saint-Quentin-des-Prés represents Romanesque architecture and pilgrimage history, while Parc Édouard André showcases landscaped garden spaces. There is also the Jardin du Bien-être, opportunities for walks around Étang des Trois Merlettes, a hiking trail and a picnic area on the Cher à vélo cycling route. The options therefore range from heritage to outdoor activities, with each place offering its own distinct focus.

Church of Saint-Quentin-des-Prés: Romanesque Architecture and Pilgrimage History

The Church of Saint-Quentin-des-Prés is an example of 12th-century Romanesque architecture. It was originally built as a chapel for pilgrims on the Way of St. James. This original purpose gives the building a clear connection to pilgrimage history, in addition to its architectural period. The church also houses a 15th-century polychrome stone Pietà, which was restored in 2016. The building and the sculpture each have their own historical context. Together, they offer two distinct ways to explore the area's heritage: Romanesque architecture and the history of a sacred work of art.

Parc Édouard André and Its Garden

Parc Édouard André is designated as a sensitive natural area and has been open to the public since November 2003. Opening conditions may vary seasonally; check them before your visit. The park and its buildings bear the “Maison des Illustres” heritage label. The grounds include nine plots of a French garden featuring themed rose-garden designs. The number of plots and the rose theme give the park a clearly defined horticultural character; the label adds its heritage designation. If you are particularly interested in garden design during your visit, you can take in both the layout of the grounds and their rose gardens.

Gardens, Walks and Hiking Trail

The Jardin du Bien-être is located on the La Vignerie grounds. You can reach it on foot via Rue de la Vignerie or by a footpath leading from the Les Longerons sports complex. These two access routes provide practical guidance if you would like to include the garden in your day's plans. The area around Étang des Trois Merlettes is suitable for walks and picnics. You can therefore choose between a named garden with two specified pedestrian access routes and a pond setting with its own recreational opportunities.

For a longer hike, the 2025 route guide lists the trail “A la croisée de la campagne, des vignes et des pâturages” as 11.5 kilometres long, easy in difficulty, and taking two hours and 30 minutes to walk. The distance, difficulty and estimated time help you assess the scope of the hike. Check the route details locally before setting out on a current hike.

Cher à vélo Cycling Route and Picnic by the Cher

A picnic area by the Cher is located on the Cher à vélo cycling route. Access by car is via Rue de Finispont. The connection to the cycling route and the specified car access are therefore clearly indicated for planning purposes. If you are planning a break by the river, you can take these details into account depending on how you are travelling. The picnic area adds a specific waterside stop to the range of outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Bridoré, Chaveignes, Lémeré, Panzoult, Saint-Étienne-De-Chigny, Joué-Lés-Tours, Bourgueil, Ligueil.

View the broader travel guide: Indre-Et-Loire.