La Ville-Aux-Dames: Loire Landscapes, History and Culture

La Ville-Aux-Dames is a suitable destination if you want to combine Loire landscapes, local history and culture in one trip. The church, river landscape and theatre offer different ways to explore the area.

Nature along the Loire and walking paths

Île de la Métairie is a natural area along the Loire where you can discover the flora and fauna of the Loire riverbanks. Île de la Métairie, more precisely the Presqu’île de Rochecorbon, can be explored on a marked hiking trail. The trail has markers and a general information board. The 70-hectare area offers panoramic views of troglodyte dwellings, the Rochecorbon lantern and the Loire.

For walks in the centre, La Petite Taille et des Cinq Arpents park has areas between shops and schools. A local tourism map from January 2025 also lists three circular walking routes rated as easy: Circuit Bords de Loire, Sentier de la forêt and Sentier de la grève. The stated lengths range from 0.6 to 1.8 km. Check the route details before setting out.

Church and local history

The present-day church of La Ville-Aux-Dames dates from the 15th century and stands on the remains of an 11th-century Romanesque church. The two dates point to different historical layers: the present church and the remains of its older Romanesque predecessor. If you are interested in architectural history, this connection is a concrete starting point for getting to know the town.

The history of the railway also offers insight into the former division of the municipality. The railway reached La Ville-Aux-Dames in 1845; at the time, the tracks divided the municipality into Bourg, the northern part of the municipality, and Grand village. These names refer to this historical division.

Theatre and other activities

Théâtre Nouvelle Lune offers a lively theatre programme in La Ville-Aux-Dames, with performances for all audiences. The theatre also holds the FestiLune festival every year and invites other theatre groups to present their latest productions. Individual performances and schedules vary by season. If you want to plan your stay around a performance, check the dates for the relevant FestiLune edition and the current programme.

Karting Center Tours in La Ville-Aux-Dames has a go-kart track for people aged seven and over. The centre also has a 4,000 m² paintball area for adults. The activities have different age limits and target audiences. Activity details may change, so check the latest information before your visit.

The ESVD Cyclotourisme association offers three free outings per week by bicycle, mountain bike and gravel bike. Groups are formed according to ability. Schedules and participation requirements may change; check with the association in advance.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Ouen-Les-Vignes, Tavant, Gizeux, Candes-Saint-Martin, La Chapelle-Blanche-Saint-Martin, Lignières-de-Touraine, Chambourg-Sur-Indre, Saint-Avertin.

For the main travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.