Montigny-le-Gannelon is a tiny village with a big château. With around 450 inhabitants, it stands above the Loir river (not to be confused with the Loire) in Eure-et-Loir. Since 2017 it has been part of the commune of Cloyes-les-Trois-Rivières. It is a charming detour for travellers exploring the Loir valley and the area around Châteaudun.
Why visit Montigny-le-Gannelon
The village offers historic monuments, river views and walking trails in a peaceful rural setting, away from the busy Loire châteaux.
Things to see in Montigny-le-Gannelon
The château
The Château de Montigny-le-Gannelon has a west façade from the end of the 15th century and was restored in the 19th century. It is listed as a historic monument. Check opening times before you visit.
Medieval remains
The old guard house from the 12th century and the Porte Roland, a gate probably dating from the 12th or early 13th century, are both listed monuments.
The church
The church of Saint-Sauveur-Saint-Gilles completes the village’s heritage.
Walks
Two marked trails, a historic circuit and a nature circuit, let you explore the village and the Loir valley on foot.
A local legend
A legend links the village to neighbouring Saint-Jean-Froidmentel: a lady of the château was said to have been sent down the hill in a barrel that floated along the Loir – and her cry of “froid manteau” supposedly gave the neighbouring village its name.
Best time to visit
May to September is ideal for walking and riverside visits.
Getting there
The village is near Cloyes-sur-le-Loir, about 12 km south of Châteaudun. A car is the most practical way to visit. The nearest airports are Tours and the Paris airports.
Famous people
The painter Pierre Prévost (1764–1828), the first painter of panoramas in France, was born here.
FAQ
Is Montigny-le-Gannelon on the Loire?
No – it is on the Loir, a smaller river that flows into the Sarthe.
Can you combine it with other visits?
Yes – with Châteaudun and its castle, and the villages of the Loir valley.
