Lavardin

Visit Lavardin, Loire Valley

Lavardin is situated 20 km south-west of Vendome and 40 km north of Tours, towards the north of the the Centre (Loire Valley) region of France. Although it is a small village, with approximately 260 inhabitants, the picturesque Lavardin is very picturesque, in a lovely setting on the Loir river with the ruins of a medieval castle poised dramatically above the village.

Exploring Lavardin

Start your visit on the ancient gothic style eight arched stone bridge across the Loir river. From here you get a good view up across the village and the castle on the hill.

Cross to the other side of the bridge to take a photo of the bridge and river with the castle and village behind and to see the ancient lavoir - then stop for a game of 'pooh sticks' on the bridge!

The houses in the village are both pretty and interesting, with some fascinating period features (16th century) - such as colombage, ornate windows and slate rooves to discover. Among the highlights are the Maison Perrault on Rue de la Barriere, a gothic style house dating from the 13th century that you might almost think is a church when you see the stone windows; and the Maison Florent Tissard, a substantial medievalhouse with a tower and raised balcony.

Another highlight in Lavardin is the roman style Church of Saint Geneste. The understated exterior gives little clue to the impressive frescoes, carvings and decorations to be found inside the church, of which there are a great number.

The 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) and the remains of some defensive walls including the entrance through an imposing gateway with towers either side.

Lavardin is officially classified as one of the 'most beautiful villages of France'.

Local highlights

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.

Tourist classifications for Lavardin: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 1*; One of the most beautiful village in France (plus beau villages);

Suggested places to visit near Lavardin, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Talcy Chateau 42km; Fougeres-sur-Bievre Chateau 47km; Chateau de Chenonceau 48km; Chateau de Chambord 49km; Chateaudun 50km; Chateau de Cheverny 51km; Chateau de Villandry 53km; Chateau du Lude 56km; Beaugency 56km; Le Mans 59km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Lavardin

Lavardin tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Jardin du domaine de Sasnières - remarkable garden (5km) : Vendome - town of art and history (15km) : Jardins du château de Poncé - remarkable garden (17km) : Cogners - ville fleurie 4* (22km) : Parc et jardins du château de Valmer - remarkable garden (32km) : Amboise - town of art and history (37km) : Roseraie des terrasses de l’évêché - remarkable garden (37km) : Domaine régional de Chaumont-sur-Loire - remarkable garden (37km) :

French version: see Lavardin (Francais)