An interactive interpretation trail
This trail highlights the northern side of the ramparts and allows tourists and walkers to discover the Royal Fortress from a new angle.
Six interactive terminals, installed along the 2 km long route, offer explanations on the panorama and the constructions that can be observed. On the way, visitors will be able to meet sheep installed along the ramparts on an "eco-pasture" area set up by the Departmental Council. This environmentally-friendly system, which is quiet compared to mechanical cutting, maintains low vegetation on the very sloping and difficult to access southern area. The trail begins on the esplanade of the fortress (in front of the contemporary building that houses the reception and ticket office) and ends on the banks of the Vienne River.
In six stages, you can:
- Let yourself be surprised by the unusual views of the fortress,
- Enjoy a digest of military architecture from the 12th to the 15th century through the history of its defensive towers,
- Walk through the area of the former Saint-Maurice cemetery, now disused,
- Discover the romantic legend of the Roberdeau underground passage…
Once on the banks of the Vienne River, the trail joins the discovery circuit of the Art and History of Chinon Town and allows the public to extend the walk to the historic town centre.
A section of the trail is currently closed for safety reasons.
The "Tour de l'Echauguette" interactive terminal is temporarily inaccessible.