On the 6 km “Sur la piste des planètes” walking trail, each step in the scale model represents one million kilometres. The Planétarium de Tauxigny offers a different way to explore the universe, while historic buildings and trails through the countryside open up other themes.
Astronomy on screen and along the trail
At the Planétarium de Tauxigny, a digital projection on a hemispherical screen above visitors takes them on journeys through the universe. The permanent astronomy exhibition includes display panels, a video room, display cases, touchscreens, models and historical instruments. Alongside the projection, visitors can explore different ways of learning: images on the screen and an exhibition of models and instruments.
The observatory and planetarium site was expanded in 2020 to accommodate groups attending themed workshops. The planetary trail offers another way to learn about astronomy: several panels focus on the planets, and the scale model translates vast distances into steps. Each step represents one million kilometres. Along the 6 km trail, this scale provides a tangible way to understand the distances shown.
Church, manor house and historic buildings
The history of the Church of Saint-Martin’s construction spans from its medieval bell tower to later alterations. The tower dates from the 12th century. The rectangular choir and transept were altered in the 15th century, and the façade and nave were rebuilt in the 19th century. On 12 June 1926, a decree added the church to the register of historic monuments. The building thus brings together different periods of its history.
The privately owned Pont-Long manor house is a stately residence dating from the 17th century; its entrance door dates from the 18th century. These two dates give the building its own chronology, distinct from the church’s construction phases. Smaller architectural details are also part of the local heritage: the Lavoir de Tauxigny has two basins, is covered, and has a fireplace for heating the water.
The Moulin de Ligoret is a mill with two types of power; it has a wind tower and a waterwheel. Along with the church, manor house and washhouse, the mill illustrates the variety of buildings that can form the historic focus of a stay. The selection ranges from religious architecture to a private stately residence and structures with technical features.
Walking and horse-riding activities
A local walking route follows the Échandon through the surrounding countryside. It offers a different perspective on Tauxigny from its buildings and astronomy-related attractions: here, the focus is on the trail through the countryside along the river.
Horse-riding lessons and rides are also among the possible activities. The Centre Ă©questre et poney club du Buisson welcomes visitors in Tauxigny by appointment for riding lessons in the indoor arena or horseback rides in Touraine. As visits must be arranged in advance, check availability beforehand. This lets you plan a horse-riding visit as a separate activity, distinct from the walk and the other themes.
Discover more destinations: Faye-La-Vineuse, Saint-Paterne-Racan, Tours, Assay, Saint-Ouen-Les-Vignes, Saint-Étienne-De-Chigny, Dierre, La Roche-Clermault
For the regional travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.
