Cléry-Saint-André combines sacred history with a specifically described hike. The Basilique Notre-Dame de Cléry lies on the Way of St. James and continues to welcome numerous pilgrims. The route “De Cléry à la Butte des Elus” also starts at the basilica and follows the Ardoux from there. This gives you two clearly defined priorities for planning your trip: religious heritage and outdoor activity. The town developed on a hillside above the Loire; this setting adds a landscape perspective to the factors to consider when choosing your destination.

The Basilica and the History of Louis XI

The Basilique Notre-Dame de Cléry is a masterpiece of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. King Louis XI chose it as his burial place. The collegiate church, “Collégiale Notre-Dame,” was rebuilt for Louis XI between 1449 and 1485. Architecture and royal history are therefore not just broadly outlined here; they are connected to a specific style, person and construction period. If sacred architecture and the history of the French monarchy interest you, you can make these the focus of your trip. They give your stay a clear cultural theme without requiring an extensive sightseeing itinerary.

The 2026 programme listed the tour “Visite royale à Cléry-Saint-André.” It took visitors through the streets of Cléry-Saint-André, to the remains of the cloister and the Clos Noah garden, and concluded inside the Basilique Notre-Dame de Cléry. The itinerary connects the town with historic remains, a named garden and the basilica as its final stop. Before travelling, check whether the tour is running on your travel dates.

Hike from the Basilica to the Butte des Elus

The hiking route “De Cléry à la Butte des Elus” is 8.3 km long, is rated easy and takes about two hours. Starting at the Basilique Notre-Dame de Cléry, it follows the Ardoux River to the edge of the Sologne and the Butte des Elus. The distance, approximate duration and difficulty level are specified, as are the starting point and destination. For planning your day, the hike offers a specific alternative to a stronger focus on cultural history: the route is listed as taking about two hours, while the basilica’s history of construction offers a different way to explore the town. The route therefore appeals to a different travel priority than the historical details about the church: here, the focus is on activity, distance and timeframe.

More Activities and How to Get There

As another activity, the Poney Club des 5 Arpents offers riding lessons, courses, activities and introductory sessions for babies, children, teenagers and adults. The club also organises trail rides and holds the “Equi Handi Club mental” label. This adds a distinct equestrian theme to the cultural heritage and hiking options. Check availability for your preferred activity before travelling, especially if it is a key factor in your plans.

Cléry-Saint-André can be reached by car via the D 951. REMI coaches run from the bus stations in Orléans and Saint-Laurent-Nouan to Cléry-Saint-André. Two different ways of getting there are therefore available: driving along a designated road and taking a bus from either of two towns. If you plan to travel by bus, check the current timetable before your trip and make sure the service works for your travel date.

Discover more destinations: Briare, Bou, Sandillon, Boismorand, Moulon, Ferrières-En-Gâtinais, Vennecy, Jargeau

For the broader travel overview: Loiret.