Eure-et-Loir is famous for its Chartres cathedral, its castles, and its rural landscapes. The city of Chartres is a major historical and cultural center.
The Eure-et-Loir department, located in the Centre-Val de Loire region, offers a variety of tourist, gastronomic, and cultural activities. Here is a list categorized by type:
Gastronomic Activities
1. Local Markets:
- Chartres Market: One of the largest markets in the region, offering fresh local products.
- Dreux Market: Ideal for discovering local produce.
2. Restaurants and Bistros:
- Le Georges in Chartres: A renowned gourmet restaurant.
- Le Saint-Hilaire in Chartres: Known for its traditional French cuisine.
3. Local Products:
- Cheeses: Although Camembert de Normandie is not originally from Eure-et-Loir, it is often found at local markets.
- Artisanal honey and preserves: Available in many local boutiques.
Heritage
1. Historical Monuments:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral in Chartres: A Gothic masterpiece inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Château de Maintenon: A historical chateau with magnificent gardens.
- Château d'Anet: A Renaissance chateau with notable gardens.
2. Museums:
- Chartres Museum of Fine Arts: Collection of art and historic objects.
- Marcel Proust Museum in Illiers-Combray: Dedicated to the writer Marcel Proust.
3. Archaeological Sites:
- Crypts of Chartres Cathedral: An archaeological site under the cathedral.
Other Unmissable Activities
1. Nature and Hiking:
- Regional Natural Park of Perche: Ideal for hiking and discovering local fauna and flora.
- Senonches Forest: Perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
2. Sports and Leisure:
- Chartres Golf Course: A renowned golf course.
- Courville-sur-Eure Leisure Center: Water sports and outdoor activities.
3. Events and Festivals:
- Chartres Festival of Light: A light show illuminating the city's monuments.
- International Organ Festival in Chartres: An internationally renowned musical event.
4. Shopping:
- City Center of Chartres: Many local shops and boutiques.
- L'Étoile Shopping Centre in Chartres: For a more modern shopping experience.
These activities offer a rich and varied glimpse into what the Eure-et-Loir department has to offer, whether for gastronomes, heritage enthusiasts, or nature lovers.