The Royal Fortress of Chinon stands on the hillside above the Vienne and stretches for more than 500 metres from west to east. Visitors can enjoy an interactive tour there.
Anyone who has Chinon, the Royal Fortress and the Caves Painctes on their travel list may wish to rent a holiday apartment.
Culture
Since 1999, Chinon has held the national “Ville d’art et d’histoire” label. This label was renewed for the period 2025–2034. Even the oldest parts of the Saint-Mexme collegiate church date back a long way: they originate from around the year 1000. The collegiate church currently serves as a cultural centre.
The medieval Sainte-Radegonde Chapel was built around the tomb of the hermit Jean de Chinon. Inside, there is a recently rediscovered mural depicting a so-called royal hunt from the late 12th century.
The Le Carroi Museum presents its collection of more than 8,600 objects in temporary exhibitions and publicly accessible workshops. The collection also includes a portrait of François Rabelais created by Eugène Delacroix.
Chinon's historic centre features half-timbered houses, town palaces and other Gothic façades. Several underground galleries of the Caves Painctes extend beneath the Royal Fortress. A guided tour of the Caves Painctes includes, among other things, the spring known as the “Dive Bouteille”.
Nature
Thanks to an exceptional microclimate, the Puys du Chinonais are home to flora and fauna with Mediterranean characteristics. The town is also home to the Promenades des Docteurs Mattraits, a green space suitable for walks that has been classified as an “Ensemble boisé remarquable” since 2019.
The hillside path in Chinon that follows the GR 3 offers a viewpoint over the slate roofs of the protected area. An interactive interpretation trail also begins on the esplanade at the Royal Fortress. It is approximately 2 kilometres long, has six interactive stations and explains the panorama and visible buildings at each one. The trail ends on the banks of the Vienne.
Further destinations: Berthenay, Saint-Quentin-Sur-Indrois, Richelieu, La Châtre, Cangey, Marcilly-Sur-Vienne, Luzille, Montlouis-Sur-Loire
