Veigné can be explored through its natural and cultural heritage, each with its own distinct focus. In Parc de la Championnière, a nature trail winds through the forest; the bell tower of Église Saint Maixent dates back to around 1140–1160. Other highlights include Arboretum de la Martinière, located in a former quarry, Grand Moulin and the circular Les Jonchères walking trail. When planning your visit, you can choose between nature-focused attractions, individual historic sites and a circular route.
Discover nature: forest trail and arboretum
Parc de la Championnière is open to the public free of charge from mid-June to mid-September. As seasonal access may change, it is worth checking the visiting period in advance. A nature trail winds through the forest, with information boards sharing facts about the undergrowth’s flora and fauna. The park is also home to a chestnut tree that has been recognised as an “Arbre remarquable de France” since 2007.
Arboretum de la Martinière offers a different focus on nature. The four-hectare park is located in a former quarry, includes two ponds and has been awarded the “Jardin Remarquable” label. Around a hundred species of bamboo are another of its distinctive features. The quarry, ponds and bamboo collection give the site a variety of facets. While the nature trail in Parc de la Championnière focuses on the forest and undergrowth, the arboretum centres on bamboo and the distinctive landscape of the former quarry. Check the latest visiting and appointment arrangements before your visit, as these may change.
Culture, milling and pilgrimage routes
The bell tower of Église Saint Maixent dates from around 1140–1160 and has been listed as a historic monument since 1961. Grand Moulin adds the history of milling to the area’s cultural heritage: a mill wheel installation built in 1926 and weighing 17 tonnes is still there today; the historic grinding mechanism at Grand Moulin is also still visible. When choosing your cultural stops, you can explore different subjects, from the bell tower to the mill’s visible features.
The 12-kilometre circular Les Jonchères walking trail leads around Veigné and lets you discover architectural and natural features located along the route. Unlike a visit to a single historic site, here the focus is on points of interest spread along a circular trail. The GR655, a pilgrimage route on the Via de Tours towards Santiago de Compostela, is signposted in Veigné. For pilgrims setting out from Tours towards Santiago, Veigné provides the first official pilgrims’ hostel or Jacquaire stopover in the Indre-et-Loire département. Check the latest accommodation arrangements separately in advance.
Market and local produce
Veigné market takes place every Friday morning at Place du Maréchal Leclerc. It offers fruit and vegetables from local and regional producers, as well as cheese, poultry, charcuterie, seafood and flowers. A visit to the market adds local food and produce to your nature- and culture-focused itinerary. Opening times and the selection may change, so check both before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Paterne-Racan, La Croix-En-Touraine, Ligueil, Louestault, Limeray, Rillé, Ligré, Vouvray.
For the wider travel guide: Indre-Et-Loire.
