Vitry-Aux-Loges brings together forest landscapes, paths along the Canal d’Orléans, hikes near Jarnonce, equestrian tourism and the Church of Saint-Médard. This makes it possible to choose where to stay based on your main interest: cycling, a hike with a defined time frame, equestrian activities or exploring the town’s history.
Between the Forêt d’Orléans and the Canal
North of Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, Vitry-Aux-Loges lies in the heart of the Forêt domaniale d’Orléans, a state-owned forest. The town is set in a large clearing between the Lorris and Ingrannes forest areas. The forest and canal form the scenic backdrop for a range of routes and activities with different focuses: the towpath along the Canal d’Orléans is described for cycling, while the routes near Jarnonce are explored on foot.
Getting around by bike or on foot
At the Canal d’Orléans, the towpath in Vitry-Aux-Loges offers cycling connections towards Montargis, Briare and Orléans via the canals and the Loire à Vélo route. These destinations give the cycling theme a broader scope than just the paths within the town. By contrast, the “Des Loges en Randos” hiking route runs from the Étang de Jarnonce to Vitry-Aux-Loges.
The hiking route at the Étang de Jarnonce is 10.8 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. It is considered easy and suitable for families. The route follows the Canal d’Orléans to the Moulin Rouge lock, then returns along the canal. At the Jarnonce site, former ditches and the Étang de Jarnonce have been preserved; both can be discovered during the hike.
For planning purposes, the difference between these routes allows for a direct comparison: the hike at the Étang is defined by an approximate duration and a specific distance. The towpath offers cycling connections towards three named destinations. You can therefore choose between a hike with a stated time commitment and a ride along the canal with several destination options.
Equestrian activities and regional routes
The Ferme équestre du K Rouge offers carriage rides and horseback rides or riding routes in the Forêt d’Orléans, along the Loire and in the Sologne. Activities also include Equifeel, Endurane, hikes, horseback rides and riding lessons. Carriage rides and horse riding offer a different focus from the paths along the canal: here, the emphasis is on activities with horses and routes through the named landscapes. If you choose where to stay based on the activity you want, you can consider these offerings as a distinct option alongside cycling and hiking.
Saint-Médard and the town’s history
The Gothic church in Vitry-Aux-Loges is classified as a historic monument. Saint-Médard was rebuilt in the 16th century in the Gothic, or pointed-arch, style; remains of an earlier church are visible at the foot of the tower. Its features include an oak tabernacle or altarpiece and a painting of the Adoration of the Magi from the workshop of Orléans painter Pierre Poncet. The architecture, visible structural remains and furnishings offer several distinct historical perspectives on the church.
The former railway line is also part of the town’s history: built through Vitry-Aux-Loges in 1874, it connected Orléans with Montargis. This former connection adds another historical dimension to the church and landscape themes without conflating it with today’s cycling or hiking routes.
Discover more destinations: Boismorand, Girolles, Saint-Péravy-la-Colombe, Bellegarde, Lorcy, Coullons, Châtillon-sur-Loire, Combleux.
View the full travel guide: Loiret.
