Lavardin - Val de Loire, France travel

Visitez Lavardin : gites | hotels | location des voitures | explore Loire Valley

Lavardin ('most beautiful villages of the Loire') is found 20 km south-west of Vendome, in the Centre region of France.

Tourist Information

Lavardin is a very small village, with approximately 260 inhabitants. This picturesque medieval village is dominated by the ruined chateau towering above it, atop a rocky cliff. Dating originally from the 11th-14th centuries, but also now a ruin since long ago, when the troops of Henry 4th laid it to waste. The castle still has its donjon (keep), remains of some walls, and plenty of atmosphere!

The houses in the village are both pretty and interesting, with some fascinating 'period' (16th century) features - colombage, windows and slate rooves to discover. Another highlight is the Chuch of Saint Geneste, above all for the frescoed and decorated interior.

The Loir River passes the village, with a splendid gothic 8-arch stone bridge across it. Pooh sticks, anyone?

Nearby

Close to Lavardin, the troglodyte village of Troo is well worth a visit, with many of these ancient troglodyte caves now restored as fine residences. Vendome is also nearby, a larger town well deserving of a visit.