Loiret - the department
Discovering the Loiret: heritage, landscapes and flavours
Visit Loiret department is a land rich in history, diverse landscapes and delicious culinary traditions. Located in the heart of the Centre-Val de LoireIt offers visitors a multitude of tourist sites, picturesque towns and gastronomic specialities to discover.
Overview of Loiret
Created on March 4, 1790, Loiret is one of the French départements born of the Revolution. It owes its name to the Loiret river, a tributary of the Loire, which crosses its territory. The department's prefecture is Orléans, an emblematic city steeped in history. Loiret is surrounded by the departments of Essonne, Seine-et-Marne, Yonne, Nièvre, Cher, Loir-et-Cher and Eure-et-Loir. This central position makes it a strategic crossroads and a meeting point of cultures.
Loiret landscapes and towns
The Loiret boasts a wide variety of landscapes, from fertile plains to dense forests and the peaceful banks of the Loire. Notable natural regions include :
The Loire Valley The UNESCO World Heritage site offers exceptional panoramic views along the river.
La Beauce The "granary of France", this vast cereal-growing plain stretches across the north-western part of the département.
Visit Sologne To the south, this region is characterized by its forests, ponds and rich biodiversity.
The Orleans Forest One of France's largest forests, ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
Among the Loiret's emblematic towns:
Orleans Paris: regional capital, known for its historic heritage linked to Joan of Arc and its Sainte-Croix cathedral.
Montargis Venice of the Gâtinais" for its many picturesque canals and bridges.
Gien famous for its earthenware factory and its castle overlooking the Loire.
Pithiviers famous for its eponymous pastry and rich architectural heritage.
Must-see tourist sites in Loiret
The Loiret is home to many tourist attractions that bear witness to its rich past and cultural diversity:
The Château de Sully-sur-Loire A medieval fortress listed as a historic monument, offering a journey through French history.
Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire Abbey A masterpiece of Romanesque art, a place of pilgrimage and meditation.
Parc Floral de la Source in Orléans A botanical garden where the Loiret River rises, offering a multitude of themed gardens.
Gien Earthenware Museum Discover the ancestral know-how of earthenware, with prestigious collections.
The Orleans Canal The Canal du Loing: perfect for cycling or boating, it links the Loire to the Canal du Loing.
Gastronomy and specialities of Loiret
Loiret cuisine reflects the richness of its terroir and traditions. Local specialities include :
Jargeau andouille sausage Traditional charcuterie made from seasoned and smoked pork meat and tripe.
Le Pithiviers Puff pastry filled with almond cream, delicious and refined.
Montargis chocolates almonds coated in caramelized sugar, a delicacy that has been appreciated for centuries.
Orleans vinegar A renowned condiment produced using traditional fermentation methods.
Orléanais and Giennois wines These fruity-flavored vintages are the perfect accompaniment to local dishes.
The region and surrounding departments
Surrounded by several departmentsThe Loiret enjoys a privileged position:
L'Essonne and Seine-et-Marne North: close to the Paris region, offering cultural and economic opportunities.
The Yonne to the east: famous for its vineyards and historic sites.
Nièvre and Cher in the south: rural areas with a rich wine-growing and gastronomic tradition.
Loir-et-Cher to the west: home to famous Loire castles and rolling countryside.
L'Eure-et-Loir to the north-west: a land of transition between the Beauce and Perche regions, with a remarkable architectural heritage.
Frequently asked questions about Loiret department
What are the Loiret's must-see tourist attractions?
Visit Loiret department is brimming with remarkable historical and natural sites. Not to be missed are the Château de Sully-sur-Loirethe Parc Floral de la Source in Orléans, theSaint-Benoît-sur-Loire Abbeythe faïencerie de Gienand the Canal d'Orléans ideal for cycling or boating.
What are the Loiret's culinary specialities?
The Loiret's gastronomy showcases tasty local produce. Specialities includeandouille de Jargeauthe Pithiviers (flaky pastry with almond cream), the pralines de Montargisthe Orléans vinegaras well as Orléanais and Giennois wines.
What are the major cultural events in the Loiret?
The Loiret region offers many cultural events throughout the year. Among the most popular are the Loire Festival in Orléans, celebrating the river navy, the Salon des vins de Loirethe Johannine feasts in homage to Joan of Arc, and the Festival de Sully et du Loiretdedicated to classical music.
What are the most beautiful towns to visit in the Loiret?
The Loiret is home to several towns with a rich heritage. Orleansits capital, is famous for Joan of Arc and Sainte-Croix cathedral. Montargisnicknamed the "Venice of the Gâtinais", with its picturesque canals and bridges. Gien is famous for its earthenware factory and castle, while Pithiviers is famous for its eponymous pastry and its historical heritage.
Where are the best places to hike in the Loiret?
Nature lovers will enjoy hiking in the Orleans Forestone of France's largest forests, or along the Canal d'Orléans. Le Loire ValleyThe UNESCO World Heritage site also offers magnificent trails along the river.
Which departments surround Loiret?
Visit Loiret is surrounded by several departments: Essonne and Seine-et-Marne to the north, The Yonne to the east, Nièvre and Cher to the south, and Loir-et-Cher and Eure-et-Loir to the west and northwest.
When is the best time to visit the Loiret?
Visit Loiret department is a pleasant place to visit all year round. Spring and summer are perfect for lush green landscapes and outdoor festivals, while autumn offers magnificent forest colors. Winter, though quieter, offers a different perspective on Christmas markets and cultural heritage.
How can I get around the Loiret?
The Loiret is well served by A10, A71 and A19 freewaysThe region is also easy to reach by car. Trains take you from Paris to Orléans in less than an hour. Buses and regional coaches link the main towns and villages.
Where to sleep in Loiret?
The Loiret region offers a wide range of accommodation, from charming hotels downtown to the country cottages in the heart of nature. There are also bed & breakfast in historic homes and campsites to enjoy the department's natural landscapes.
What family activities are available in Loiret?
Families will appreciate the Parc Floral de la Sourcefeaturing themed gardens and a mini-farm. Visit Beauval Zooalthough located in the neighboring Loir-et-Cher department, is easily accessible from the Loiret. Boat trips on the Canal d'Orléans or visits to castles such as Sully-sur-Loire also offer great family experiences.
