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Motorhoming in Loiret
Loiret is one of the six departments of the region of Centre. The River Loire crosses the department from east to west and determines the agreeable pace of life in Loiret. The culture of Loiret is interesting and the department is fairly rural despite the proximity of Paris.
If you’re hiring a motorhome in France or hiring a motorhome in England you could start your visit of Loiret in the regional capital, Orléans. Well established since the Middle Ages, the notoriety of Orléans grew from its strategic position, being one of the few places where it was possible to cross the Loire at the time. A busy trading centre, then a centre of cultural and religious exchange, a university town known throughout Europe from the Middle Ages, it was Joan of Arc who prevented the English from invading Orléans in 1429. The Renaissance period saw Orléans become one of the most beautiful towns in France. Despite important damage after the bombardments of the Second World War, Orléans raised itself from the dust and today is an important, flamboyant town which has known how to conserve its charm.
If you enjoy the joys of nature, take the time to visit the forest of Orléans. This is the second biggest area of forest in France and possesses a surprising mix of trees which includes maritime pines which were planted during the Napolean period and which are not at all native to the region. While walking or cycling along the many footpaths which criss cross the forest you may come across squirrels or deer and even badgers and wild boar.
While you travel around you can use the Aires de Service in Loiret when you need to take a break or stop for the night.
The town of Pithiviers has an interesting history which developed around its strategic position at the head of two valleys and at the crossroads of four important routes. Whilst wandering through its avenues and streets you will discover the Château de Bellecour and the 11th century Church of Salomon-Saint-Grégoire as well as other points of interest which are signaled by information boards at every street corner. The town has also one or two tasty specialities; the ‘Pithiviers’, an almond pastry covered in icing and dried fruits and ‘Pain d’Epice’, a dark bread made with spices.
Visit Beaugency with its 15th century château and magnificent 22 arched 17th century bridge. Conquered by the English in 1428, it was liberated a year later by Joan of Arc only to be raised to the ground in 1567 during the religious wars. Beaugency has never the less today a remarkable historical heritage and while you lose yourself in the old quarters of the town, don’t miss the superb Renaissance style Hôtel de Ville.
Cross the departmental border and go motorhoming in Bourgogne, motorhoming in Ile de France, or motorhoming in Haute Normandie to make the most of motorhome travel in France.
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