The best road cycling routes around Donnery

The place of the birds, a magnificent setting

Nice little place to have a coffee. However, it's €3 for a coffee...

Superb view

Nestled in the heart of the peaceful Sologne countryside, the church of Souvigny-en-Sologne, a testament to the region's millennia-old history, is an architectural gem dating back to the 12th century. Built under the aegis of Guillaume de Bussy, Bishop of Orléans, it has survived the ages, preserving its charm and mystery over the centuries. Shrouded in legend and imbued with spirituality, this church contains artistic and religious treasures that captivate the imagination of visitors. Perched in the heart of Souvigny, an architectural treasure awaits visitors eager for historical and artistic discoveries: the church of Souvigny. Its aura of beauty has earned it official recognition as a Historic Monument since 1979, adding a touch of prestige to its timeless charm. This medieval gem gradually reveals itself to those who venture outside. Upon entering its gate, visitors are greeted by the majesty of its 12th-century nave, adorned with a semicircular arch that seems to invite further exploration. Its red and black brick walls form diamond patterns, adding a touch of elegance to its architecture. But it is the 16th-century choir that truly captures the attention, with its three-sided apse, testifying to the artistic refinement of the period. The molded pointed windows let light filter through, creating an atmosphere of mystery and serenity inside. Outside, the 16th-century timber-framed porch stands elegantly, enveloping the west and south facades of the nave in a remarkable architectural embrace. Also known as the promenade or the caquetoire, this porch offers a welcome pause to contemplate the surrounding beauty. The joists that compose it bear witness to the expertise of the craftsmen of yesteryear, captivating the admiration of visitors. The roof, crowning this architectural marvel, is a spectacle in itself, covered with tiles and supported by low posts and a balustrade with crossed timbers in an X shape, adding a touch of character to the ensemble. Finally, the gaze rises to the slate spire overlooking the church, a work of art in its own right. While access to this marvel was once reserved for the bravest, today its charm remains accessible to all those who wish to delve into the fascinating history of Souvigny.

"A very old church; two buttresses would allow us to date it to the 11th century," we learn. "Rebuilt in the 13th century, damaged during the Hundred Years' War, it was rebuilt again in the 16th century before being burned down during the Wars of Religion and then looted during the Revolution. Its last restoration dates back to 2014."

Pleasant banks of the Loire

Built from 1900 to 1903 by Clavier, an entrepreneur in Vienne-en-Val, based on plans by Henri Rapine, an architect in Paris, this Saint Martin church is the second in Vienne-en-Val. The first church, dating from the 14th century, was destroyed. Inside, the base of the church's lectern depicts various scenes from the life of Saint Martin. The base bears the date 1613, while the eagle, which is said to have come from Férolles, is probably from the 19th century.

Start of the cycle path in Orléans an Loire.