Village of Crissay-sur- ManseVillage of Crissay-sur- Manse
©Village of Crissay-sur- Manse|ADT Touraine - JC Coutand

Crissay-sur-Manse One of the most beautiful villages in France

Take a step back in time as you discover Crissay-sur-Manse, a particularly well-preserved little village. Admire the beautiful residences of the Maison de Justice, the Maison du Grand Carroi and the Grande Maison, all built at the end of the 15th century. A treat for lovers of authenticity!

In the heart of the village of Crissay-sur-Manse

As you stroll along, have fun finding the names of the plants that cross your path: lavender, hydrangea, sage, iris, roses, hollyhocks, not forgetting the May poppies. That’s easy! Harder? Valerian, euphorbia, aubriet and many more! As the flowers decorate the Renaissance houses, head off to visit Saint-Maurice church, also dating from the 15th century, and read the interpretation panels on the architecture and history of the village: it experienced its golden age between 1490 and 1540 under the impetus of the Turpin family, chamberlains to the King.

You’ll also catch a glimpse of Crissay castle, which has suffered the ravages of time but is counting on the energy of its young owner to see it through the centuries to come. Discover it during Heritage Days in September, or during Artistes au village/Graffeurs au château (early July), and performances at the new Manse theatre.

En Touraine : Crissay-sur-Manse, parmi les plus beaux villages de France
En Touraine : Crissay-sur-Manse, parmi les plus beaux villages de France
En Touraine : Crissay-sur-Manse, parmi les plus beaux villages de France

The spotlight!

Sit on the terrace of the Auberge de Crissay (restaurant and B&B, with swimming pool) by Séverine and Mark, and contemplate the magnificent view of the surrounding countryside, worthy of a Tuscan landscape!

Hiking around Crissay-sur-Manse

Set off on the beautiful 14km walk (or just 4km, if you cut off at the carroi de la grange), which begins at the washhouse and the pretty Manse valley. Then leave the village and enjoy the pretty views over the cultivated fields, before entering the Crissay forest and discovering the impressive remains of the Roches-Tranchelion collegiate church. Then discover the village of Avon-les-Roches, before returning to your starting point via the vineyards of the Pascal Ricotier estate (which produces AOC Chinon wines, as well as two remarkable cuvées of dry white wine made from the Chardonnay grape).

La Ferme de la Biquette

At the western exit of Crissay-sur-Manse, the Ferme de la Biquette shop is open every morning except Sunday. Leave with cheese, soaps (very moisturising) and ice creams made from goat’s milk, and preserves made from goat’s meat. + Button Website Terroir de Touraine

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