Renay combines heritage with a marked hiking trail. At the Église Saint-Gilles, historical ties meet the remains of a former moat and distinctive features; at the Château de Renay, the focus is on protected architectural elements and a round tower with Renaissance openings. The Circuit de Saint-Gilles à Saint-Vrain à Renay starts in the village. When choosing where to stay, you can weigh up specific architectural and historical themes alongside a hiking activity.
Heritage in Renay
At the Château de Renay, the façades and roofs of the tower and the 15th-century building are protected as a historic monument. They were listed by decree on 15 July 1971. Northwest of the château stands a large round tower dating from the 15th century. Two rows of narrow openings were added to its exterior during the Renaissance and decorated with ornamental details. The different periods make the tower architecturally interesting: in addition to its original construction, you can appreciate its later Renaissance design.
The Église Saint-Gilles offers a distinct historical focus. It was under the authority of the Abbey of the Trinité de Vendôme. A former moat surrounding the church and its cemetery is still visible on the south side. The church also contains three heraldic tomb slabs commemorating G. Aménard, Seigneur of Renay, and Marie de Gallon. Its features include wood panelling installed in the 16th century and painted ornaments in the apse.
Renay thus offers different ways to explore local history: at the château and its grounds, the architectural form, structural features and Renaissance openings of the tower catch the eye; at Saint-Gilles, the former abbey connection, the visible remains of the moat, the tomb slabs and the church furnishings come together. Visitors particularly interested in architecture will find different points of interest here from those who would rather focus on historical figures and church history.
Hiking trail and landscape
The Circuit de Saint-Gilles à Saint-Vrain à Renay is a marked hiking trail. It was created by the municipality and the Perche & Haut Vendômois community, with support from the Loir-et-Cher Departmental Hiking Committee. The starting point is at Place de l’église in Renay. This specific starting point gives you a clear reference for planning; check local trail conditions before setting out.
The Bois de Renay adds a natural dimension, with high-quality oak stands. The area is also particularly popular with deer. The forest and the hiking trail represent different aspects of a stay: the Circuit is a marked activity with a designated starting point, while the Bois de Renay stands out as a landscape in its own right, thanks to its oak trees and its association with deer. Depending on your interests, you can decide whether the hike or the woodland should play a greater role in your plans.
Group accommodation
For groups, the Gîte de groupe de Renay at the Relais de la Forêt is a specific accommodation option. The 500 m² property is designed for self-catering and accommodates up to 40 people in 10 to 12 rooms, each with its own bathroom. The floor area, capacity and room count help you assess the size of your group and how it can be accommodated. As booking details may change, check availability and terms before making firm plans.
Discover more destinations: Chaumont-Sur-Tharonne, Vievy-Le-Rayé, Saint-Ouen, Nouan-Le-Fuzelier, Faverolles-sur-Cher, Crouy-Sur-Cosson, Choussy, Lignières.
For the regional travel overview: Loir-Et-Cher.
