The best walks and hikes around Saint-Gervais-La-Forêt

This former hunting lodge of François I is an essential stopover for history lovers. It houses the famous “Portrait Gallery” and its 327 illustrious people, the largest collection of historical portraits in Europe. Inhabited by the same family since 1926, Beauregard has continued to improve and develop since its inception. At the end of the 15th century, the manor of François Doulcet was confiscated by King Louis XII. Beauregard then joined the properties of the King of France and became a hunting destination for François I, which he gave in 1520 to his uncle René of Savoy. In 1545, Jean du Thier, secretary of state for finance to King Henry II, acquired the estate. He undertook major work: a gallery and a wing were added to the original building. The Château de Beauregard then presents a harmonious, strongly Italianized architecture. The roofs still have tall white chimneys called “à la Chambord”. Of the interior decoration commissioned by Jean du Thier, his study nicknamed “the cabinet of the Grelots” remains on the first floor of the castle. It has preserved its delicate carved oak woodwork and coffered ceiling over the centuries. Paul Ardier, minister of King Louis XIII, retired from political life and bought the estate to end his life there. His major work was the decoration of the great Gallery of the castle. Between 1620 and 1638, 327 portraits were placed on the walls of the room, constituting the largest collection of historical portraits known in Europe. His son and granddaughter complete the decor with Delft paving, lapis lazuli ceiling paintings and wall woodwork. The Ardier family left the estate in 1816. In the 19th and 20th centuries, modifications were made to the Château de Beauregard. The Tillier family modernized it by installing running water and central heating then undertook a first restoration campaign, both of the buildings and the park. Since 1925, the castle has belonged to the Du Pavillon family. A visit to the Château de Beauregard is also an opportunity to discover the park and its Jardin des Portraits, a contemporary garden designed by Gilles Clément. It cleverly combines 400 species of perennials and shrubs.

A beautiful picnic area with a small wooden shelter and a table to take a break during your hike.

With picnic benches and trees surrounding you, this spot is a great place to take a break during your run (if you need it of course)!

The Carrefour de la Croix Pineau takes you through vineyards, forests and fields. You'll enjoy panoramic views of the valley and hills, as well as the Croix Pineau, a stone cross that marks the intersection of four roads.

The Château de Beauregard is a Renaissance castle which was once a hunting lodge of François I and a residence of the ministers of the kings of the 16th and 17th centuries. You can enjoy the 40-hectare landscaped park, which includes a portrait garden designed by the famous landscape architect Gilles Clément. It's a great way to discover a gem of the Loire Valley and immerse yourself in history and nature.

The Carrefour de la Croix Pineau takes you through vineyards, forests and fields. You will enjoy panoramic views of the valley and hills, as well as the Croix Pineau, a stone cross that marks the intersection of four roads.

Charming picnic area with a small wooden shelter, and bike hooks for departures on foot.

Great but be careful to go down to the Loire (the route chosen was not suitable for our bikes)