Bordered by the Loire, crossed by the Bédoire stream, and protected by its vineyards, Rochecorbon is a municipality where the living is good. The village was once known as Vodanum (in 886). The name evolved over the course of time, and around 1450 a Marmoutier charter refers to “Notre Dame de Vosnes alias Roche-Corbon”. Throughout history, the lords of Rochecorbon maintained close ties with Tours Church and Marmoutier Abbey.

A troglodytic municipality, it is particularly remarkable for the 10-metre high “Lanterne” (a medieval ruin from the 15th century) overlooking the Loire. Balzac referred to it in several of his novels. Notre Dame Church, which dates from the 11th century, is also a monument not to be missed out on, its nave covered by a barrel-vaulted ceiling in raw wood. The edifice has been listed as a Historical Monument since 1923. In 1808, the parish of Saint Georges sur Loire was attached to the municipality, enriching the village’s heritage by the addition of the Saint Georges Chapel, a listed monument. This partially troglodytic edifice includes a crypt, a fine stained-glass window and mural paintings. It may be visited free of charge on Sundays and public holidays from 15 May to 31 October.

And, just down the road, there are a number of fine properties to admire, such as the Moulin de Touvoie (15th century), which harbours a supposed “Fountain of Youth” that inspired Jean Cocteau in the making of his film “La Belle et la Bête” (Beauty and the Beast) with Jean Marais.

The Loire is ever present, and may be experienced at first hand on a 50-minute cruise aboard the Saint Martin de Tours. Rambles and other leisure activities are also on the cards if you wish to enjoy Rochecorbon to the full.