Discover the Troglodytes des Goupillières
A fascinating place to discover
Just a stone’s throw from Azay-le-Rideau, the Vallée Troglodytique des Goupillières invites you to discover an astonishing site carved out of the tufa rock. On a self-guided or guided tour, you can explore three authentic troglodytic farms, with their wells, bread ovens, cowsheds, grain silos and medieval underground refuges. An original outing about 13 km from our campsite in Indre-et-Loireperfect for discovering another facet of Touraine.
Farmhouses carved out of the tufa stone
Three troglodyte habitats to explore
The Troglodytes des Goupillières showcase the ingenious organization of a dwelling dug into the tufa rock. Until 1910, a few families of Touraine peasants lived in these farms, in the heart of an exceptional natural setting.
The tour reveals a simple, ingenious way of life, deeply tied to the land. Wells, bread ovens, cowsheds, grain silos and medieval underground refuges tell the story of daily life in days gone by. It’s a great way to remember that life in Touraine wasn’t all about castles!
A lively, family-friendly site
Animals, cabin, witch’s house and castle
The farm is animated by the presence of donkeys, pigs, goats, rabbits, sheep and geese. These animals add to the charm of the place and make the visit even more lively, especially for children.
There’s also a cabin, a witch’s house and a castle for youngsters to enjoy. Add a touch of adventure to your discovery of the site… and maybe wake up a few little knights in sandals.
A visit between nature and history
An exceptional natural setting in Touraine
The Vallée Troglodytique des Goupillières offers a cultural, natural and relaxing outing. The exceptional natural setting accompanies the discovery of these farms dug into the rock, immersing you in the rural history of Touraine.
You can choose between a guided or self-guided tour, depending on your mood. Either way, you’ll learn how the local inhabitants used the tufa stone to organize their homes, protect themselves and live their daily lives.
An outing about 13 km from the campsite
With a break at Troglodyte Gourmand
To round off your visit, we offer on-site catering at Troglodyte Gourmand. So you can extend your outing with a pleasant break, right on site.
Located around 13 km from the Loire et Châteaux campsite, the Troglodytes des Goupillières offer a great idea for an excursion during your stay. With its troglodyte farms, animals, children’s play area and tufa stone, this visit plunges you into an authentic Touraine, full of surprises and charm.