Best attractions and places to see around Saumeray include a tranquil commune in the Eure-et-Loir department of France, situated along the Loir River. The area features agricultural land, meadows, and small ponds, offering opportunities for fishing. Saumeray provides access to both local sites and historical and natural attractions in the surrounding region.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Highlight • Religious Site
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Highlight • Settlement
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Highlight • Monument
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Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Castle
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According to biblical accounts, the apostle "Saint Jacques" was the first person to be executed for his faith, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, making him an early martyr (blood witness) of Christianity. His tomb in the town named after him, "Santiago de Compostela" (Galicia, Spain), is one of the most famous and important pilgrimage destinations in the world and is often ranked third after Jerusalem and Rome. Yesterday (July 25) was his feast day in the calendar of saints. When this date falls on a Sunday (this was last the case in 2021), the Catholic Church celebrates a special "Holy Year" there (extended by Pope Francis until 2022 due to the coronavirus pandemic).
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The place to take a break in Illiers-Combray.
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Very beautiful church from the 15th century with a painted wooden beam ceiling.
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Unfortunately, the church was not accessible when I visited (mid-September 2024). You could only look in through a gate and the dance of death depictions on the left side were not really visible. In front of them were transparencies with skeleton drawings. Maybe those were the depictions...
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Porte de Boisville Its ogival portal opens into a thick quadrangular massif where there was a room for operating the portcullis. We can still see the groove in the thickness of the walls. On the left and right two small funnel-shaped spaces allowed the defenders to observe and repel the enemies who appeared on the bridge. The gate was topped by a building serving as a guardhouse which was demolished in 1761. The guarding of these doors and their keys was in the troubled times of the Hundred Years' War the subject of concern for the inhabitants and also a source of quarrels and trials between the city and the abbey. This gate is preceded by a bridge of 5 stone arches, the one adjoining the gate was built in 1774 and replaced a drawbridge which defended the entrance.
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Bonneval, nicknamed the little Venice of Beauce
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A unique example of wonderful architecture exuding the opulence and power of religion.
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Bonneval is a beautiful town with still-present fortifications. The old town is surrounded by a wall at the foot of which flows the Loir. This city retains many period buildings such as the Saint-Roch Gate and the King's Tower. Among its must-see attractions, the city also includes the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire, many times destroyed and rebuilt during wars.
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The region around Saumeray is rich in history. You can visit the Église Saint Jean-Baptiste in Saumeray itself, which features a polissoir in its public garden. Nearby, the town of Bonneval offers well-preserved fortifications, historical buildings like the Porte Saint-Roch, and the Benedictine Abbey Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire. Don't miss the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray, known for its 15th-century construction and connection to the Way of St. James. Another significant historical site is the Porte de Boisville, a historical gate marking the entry into Bonneval.
Saumeray is nestled along the banks of the Loir River, offering opportunities for fishing. The area is characterized by meadows where sheep graze and numerous small ponds amidst agricultural land. For a broader natural experience, the Perche Natural Regional Park is roughly 43 km away, providing a serene countryside setting for various outdoor activities.
There are several running trails around Saumeray, catering to moderate difficulty levels. You can find routes like the 'Hotel Les Aubépines loop from Illiers-Combray' or the 'Running loop from Blandainville'. For more detailed information and to explore these routes, visit the Running Trails around Saumeray guide.
Yes, the area offers mountain biking trails. Options include 'The Ponds loop from Bailleau-le-Pin' and 'Ancient Gate – Little Bridge of Vouvray loop from Bonneval', with difficulties ranging from easy to moderate. Discover more routes in the MTB Trails around Saumeray guide.
Road cyclists can enjoy a variety of routes around Saumeray. You'll find moderate options like the 'Illiers-Combray – The Eure at Ver les Chartre loop' and more challenging ones such as 'In the heart of Eure-et-Loir — sport circuit starting from Illiers-Combray — Parc du Perche'. Explore these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Saumeray guide.
Many of the historical sites, such as the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray and the Porte de Boisville, are considered family-friendly. The natural setting along the Loir River and the nearby Perche Natural Regional Park also offer pleasant environments for family walks and exploration.
The historical sites in the Saumeray region often combine religious significance with architectural beauty. For example, the Church of Saint James, Illiers-Combray is not only a 15th-century structure but also a stop on the Way of St. James. Additionally, the 15th-century murals in Saint-Orien church offer a rare glimpse into medieval art, depicting a dance of death.
Yes, you can visit Alluyes Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. It features an imposing tower and the Saint Nicholas chapel, known for its Gothic decorations. This historical site offers a fascinating look into the region's medieval past.
While not a conventional tourist attraction, the Le Bas des Touches Archaeological Site within Saumeray has yielded significant findings. These include artifacts from the Upper Paleolithic, Middle Mesolithic, Neolithic periods, and the Iron Age (La Tène), indicating a long history of human presence in the area.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. Many enjoy discovering the well-preserved fortifications and period buildings in towns like Bonneval, often referred to as the 'little Venice of Beauce'. The peaceful atmosphere of the churches, such as the Church of Saint James, and the surprising beauty of the 15th-century murals in Saint-Orien church are also frequently highlighted.
To truly experience Bonneval, explore its old town, which is surrounded by a wall along the Loir River. Key sights include the historic Porte Saint-Roch and the Tour du Roi, as well as the Benedictine Abbey Saint-Florentin-et-Saint-Hilaire. Walking along the river and through its charming streets will give you a good sense of its character.
Yes, just 8 km from Saumeray, you can discover Le Pré Catelan, a remarkable garden that offers a pleasant and serene experience for visitors looking for beautiful landscapes and tranquility.


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