Things to see and do in Tours and the Loire
Valley

Why not visit the Touraine region during your stay? Fully immerse yourself in the abundant nature and refined heritage of the area, discover the land, and savour the culinary savoir-faire on offer.

Would you rather explore a waterside castle, play golf on a prestigious course, taste the best local wines, or fly off in a hot air balloon?The team at Le Domaine de la Commanderie de Ballan is on hand to guide you through the multitude of activities on offer in Tours and the Loire Valley. Each and every experience as a couple, with family, or among friends will be truly unique.

LUXE TENTATION

"What if we took you on an escapade along the path of the Crusades, towards Jerusalem but close to the city of Tours? The history of this estate, which dates back almost a thousand years, is closely linked to that of the Order of Templars[...]".

PARIS MATCH

"In the forest, 15 minutes from Tours, this luxury gîte promises a charming bucolic welcome to the Valley of the Kings. Overall rating: 8.1/10 Highlight: brand-new. [...]"

LIBERALIS

"In this former Templar stronghold, next to the Loire and its illustrious Châteaux, the Domaine de la Commanderie de Ballan opened its doors last spring. [...]"

TOURAINE VAL DE LOIRE

"Coup de cœur accommodation : Domaine de la Commanderie in Ballan-Miré: luxury, calm and pleasure! [...]"

LE FIGARO

"South of Tours, this 12th-century castle was founded by the Knights Templar, then entrusted to the Hospitallers. The restored buildings restored to create a hotel with two rooms and two suites, combining parquet flooring and tapestries with chic and modernity.[...]"

CHALLENGE

"With the arrival of sunny days and long weekends, it's time to get away to the countryside. This This season, a number of estates just a few hours from Paris are offering holidays combining nature, luxury and relaxation. [...]"

GRAZIA

"An unspoilt location in the heart of nature, adjacent to the city of Tours, the Domaine is the ideal place for those seeking an exceptional address in the heart of the Vallée des Rois. in the heart of the Vallée des Rois. [...]"

DO IT IN PARIS

"It may not seem like it, but this plush mansion in which you're already dreaming of spending the weekend has blown out its 843 candles. Erected in 1180, the Commanderie de Ballan even features the remains of a medieval tower and chapel on its façade... chapel... However, in 2023, you'll be staying in a comfortable residence with a swimming pool, XXL grounds and plush bedding. and soft bedding. Are you with us? [...]"

GALA

"To each his own in this former Templar stronghold near Tours and the Loire châteaux. For lovers, we offer a suite in the château. For families opt for the Verger, Bois or Tourelle houses. [...]"

INFOTRAVEL

"A true haven of peace in the heart of nature, this former Commanderie built by the Knights Templar in a 6-hectare park adjoining the Ballan forest, invites travelers to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life with its rooms, suites, apartments and houses entirely renovated in a chic country style, sleeping from 2 to 13 people and offering top-of-the-range amenities [...]".

L’OFFICIEL

"In this former Templar stronghold, next to the Loire and its illustrious châteaux, the sumptuous rooms and magnificent apartments and houses of the Domaine de la Commanderie de Ballan open their doors to amaze young and old this spring 2023 [...]".

LA NOUVELLE RÉPUBLIQUE

"A new stage in the already rich life of the Commanderie. Originally, this beautiful little château and its vast 10-hectare estate were a stopover for the Templars on their way to Santiago de Compostela. [...]"

Loire Valley castles to visit

Chambord, Chenonceau, Azay-Le-Rideau… There are hundreds of castles in the Loire, each deserving a visit lasting several hours. We have selected eight castles to see near the Domaine de la Commanderie de Ballan.

The Domaine de la Commanderie de Ballan: the perfect stopover for a Loire bike trip

The Loire by bike tourist cycle route is known for being one of the most beautiful in France and covers 560 miles. Fortunately, there's no need to cover the whole distance! Simply pedal along at your own pace, taking in the natural landscapes with UNESCO World Heritage status.

Discover Touraine’s wines during a stay at the Commanderie de Ballan

With 620 miles of vineyards, the Loire is full of delicious wines. A stay at the Commanderie de Ballan is an excellent opportunity to explore the Loire Wine Route. From vine to château, try the best white, red and sparkling vintages the Loire has to offer.

The best golf courses near Tours selected by the Commanderie

Golf is as good for the body as it is for the soul. It takes energy, flexibility and concentration. And these are qualities you can work on at your leisure on the wonderful golf courses close to the Domaine.

Guide for a weekend near Paris in Touraine

If you want a relaxing weekend near the French capital, Touraine is the perfect place to escape to. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Vieux Tours (the old town), get some fresh air by the Loire River, visit nearby châteaus like Amboise and Chinon... As a tourist in Tours, there's no time to get bored.

Take to the skies in a hot-air balloon over Tours!

There's nothing like a hot-air balloon flight over Touraine if you want to go up in the world. It really gives you a new perspective on the landscapes of the Loire, the gardens of the châteaus near Tours, the region's vineyards and local life.

Tours weekend ideas

Place Plumereau, Saint-Gatien Cathedral, Villandry Château... Below, you'll find some great places to visit during your time in Tours. Discover the best the city has to offer, then stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and try some delicious local specialities.

Things to see and do in Tours and the LoireValley