Saint-Antoine-du-Rocher brings together historic landmarks and several ways to enjoy the outdoors: the Dolmen de la Grotte aux Fées, the Chapelle et Source site and the Moulin du Bondonneau each represent a different chapter in the town’s history, while cycling and hiking routes, a golf course, a pump track and a leisure area offer other ways to spend your time. You can explore these themes according to your interests – for example, history, exercise or more relaxed leisure activities.
Traces of Different Eras
At the southern edge of Saint-Antoine-du-Rocher, towards Mettray at the place called Moulin de Rechaussé, lies the Dolmen de la Grotte aux Fées. It is about 4,000 years old and is classified as a historic monument. Its location, approximate age and classification complement one another: the location situates the dolmen within the municipality, while its age and protected status convey its historical character.
Another historic landmark is the Chapelle et Source site. It is associated with the arrival of the hermit Antoine in the 7th or 8th century. This brings together two different historical time references: for the dolmen, the focus is on its approximate age; for Chapelle et Source, it is the connection with an arrival during a particular period. As you explore local history, you can use these differences to orient yourself among the various historical themes.
Mill History and Visits
The Moulin du Bondonneau’s function as a mill for grinding grain into flour dates back to 1663. Its waterwheel has been turning again since 15 May 2023. The dates refer to different aspects: 1663 to the mill’s function, and 2023 to the return of the wheel’s motion. The mill is open to the public for visits during the Journées du patrimoine and on regular open days. If you plan a visit, check the dates of these events.
Cycling, Hiking and Leisure
The Boucle à vélo n°54 starts in Saint-Antoine-du-Rocher and, at the beginning, passes by the Golf Bluegreen Tours Ardrée, among other places. The golf course has 18 holes and is set in 70 hectares of wooded land in the municipality. This distinguishes two different activities: a cycling route that passes by the golf course and playing golf on the course itself.
Two hiking routes start from the car park at the Plan d’eau de la Grenouillère. A hiking guide leads visitors through the village’s historic sites; information panels explain the history of these places. The information therefore gives both a specific starting point for the hiking routes and a historical focus for exploring the village. Parc Barillet-Deschamps is a place for leisure and relaxation, offering a different kind of experience.
The pump track also adds to the choice of activities: it is suitable for scooters, skateboards and BMX and can be used by people of all ages. The facility was inaugurated on 30 August 2024. Saint-Antoine-du-Rocher thus brings together historic sites, a guided perspective on local history, cycling and hiking routes, and opportunities for sports and relaxation.
Discover more destinations: Parçay-Meslay, Candes-Saint-Martin, Saint-Benoît-La-Forêt, Le Boulay, Champigny-Sur-Veude, Sainte-Catherine-De-Fierbois, Cangey, Cinais.
For the overview of the wider area: Indre-Et-Loire.
