Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunoy to Tours

Are you looking for a unique road trip that will take you through beautiful countryside and quaint towns? Look no further than the drive from Brunoy, Île-de-France to Tours, Centre-Val de Loire. This scenic drive will take you past rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. The best part? There are plenty of unexpected stops along the way that will make your journey even more memorable.

The drive from Brunoy to Tours takes around three hours and covers approximately 200 kilometers. While it's possible to do the drive in one go, we recommend taking your time and exploring some of the picturesque towns and attractions along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey.

1. Chevilly, 45

Located roughly halfway between Brunoy and Tours, Chevilly is a must-stop destination. This small village is home to beautiful and historic landmarks such as the 12th century Église Saint-Martin, where medieval frescoes still adorn the walls. Visitors can also wander down the village's winding streets and take in the picturesque half-timbered houses and other structures that have stood the test of time.

Make sure to stop at La Boutique des Godillots for a bite to eat. This cozy restaurant serves up classic French cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but be sure to try their signature dish: Coq au Vin.

2. Sancerre

Sancerre is a charming hilltop village perched above the vineyards of the Loire Valley. It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs, take in the scenery, and sample some of the region's best wines. Sancerre is known for its white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, but there are also red and rosé wines to try.

Make a stop at Le Caveau de la Tour for a wine tasting and a bite to eat. Located in a 14th century building, the restaurant serves up a diverse menu of classic French dishes. Don't miss their Escargots de Bourgogne.

3. Ardon

Ardon is a lesser-known gem located just outside of Orléans. The village is home to the stunning Château de la Ferté-Saint-Aubin, a 17th century castle that now serves as a museum showcasing the life and culture of the region. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle's many rooms and gardens, or simply admire the stunning architecture from the outside.

When it comes to food, no visit to Ardon is complete without a stop at La Botte d'Asperges. As the name suggests, this restaurant is known for its asparagus dishes. Try the Asperges à la Flamande - a traditional Flemish preparation of white asparagus.

4. Vendôme

Vendôme is a picturesque town situated on the River Loir. The town is home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Abbaye de la Trinité and the Collégiale Saint-Georges. Wander down the town's charming streets and soak up the quaint atmosphere.

When it comes to food, make sure to stop at Le Saint-Georges. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves up exquisite modern French cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients. Don't miss their Foie Gras Terrine with figs.

5. Amboise

No trip to the Loire Valley is complete without a visit to the stunning Château de Amboise. This historic castle was the childhood home of King Francis I of France and is now open to visitors. Take a tour of the castle's many rooms and gardens, or simply admire the stunning architecture from the outside.

When it comes to food, make sure to stop at Le Parvis. This cozy restaurant serves up classic French dishes using locally-sourced ingredients. Don't miss their Tarte Tatin.

Conclusion

Driving from Brunoy to Tours is a journey that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in historic landmarks, world-class wine, or exquisite cuisine, there are plenty of unexpected stops along the way that will make your journey unforgettable. So hit the road, explore the countryside, and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.