Les Hayes brings together the architectural history of the Église Saint-Léonard and a range of routes for different activities. A horse-riding route is 52 kilometres long; there is also a separately named carriage route and a walk through the Cendrine Valley. The Gouffre des Hayes is known as a natural site and is a possible starting point for two routes. You can shape your stay around specific local themes and distinguish between the different types of route.

Horse-riding route or carriage route?

The horse-riding route “La vallée du Loir... à cheval, troglodytes et patrimoine” is 52 kilometres long and marked in orange in both directions. The Gouffre (Les Hayes) is listed as a possible starting point. It is important to distinguish clearly between the activities: this route is accessible to horses, not horse-drawn carriages. Carriages have their own separately named route, “La vallée du Loir... en attelage, troglodytes et patrimoine”; the Gouffre is also a possible starting point for this route. When comparing them, first consider the mode of transport, then the length and markings of the horse-riding route.

At the Gouffre des Hayes

The Gouffre des Hayes is a natural site and a stop on a route. For equestrian use, there is a hitching rail and a route map with a QR code. There are also two water points: one beside the restrooms and one by the stream. A picnic area with tables and a shelter, as well as restrooms, complete the facilities. The facilities information dates from 2025; as operating arrangements may change, check the latest information before you arrive.

Parking is also subject to seasonal arrangements. The 2025 parking information lists a landscaped car park from May to October for 20 two-stall horse transporters or trucks. In winter, two such vehicles can park along the small access road. Check the latest parking information before travelling, as operating arrangements may change.

The history of the Église Saint-Léonard

The Église Saint-Léonard is a château chapel built in the 12th century. It was altered and enlarged in the 15th century. Its southern side chapel contains the Retable de la Vierge, which is listed as protected heritage. The church thus brings together an older foundation, a later architectural alteration and a specifically named work of art. These different periods give Les Hayes’ heritage a clear identity: it encompasses the chapel’s origins, its later alteration and its furnishings.

Walking through the Cendrine Valley

The walking route “Balade entre Le Gouffre et Les Hayes” offers another way to explore the area. It passes through the Cendrine Valley and is rated easy. This adds an option specifically dedicated to walking. The routes are described in different ways for comparison: the walk focuses on the valley and its difficulty rating, while the horse-riding route is described by its 52-kilometre length and orange markings in both directions. To choose, first decide whether you would like to travel on foot, on horseback or by carriage; then use the details provided for each route to guide you.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Séris, Lavardin, Salbris, Oucques, Dhuizon, Vallières-Les-Grandes, Selles Saint Denis, Lassay-sur-Croisne

For the regional travel overview: Loir-Et-Cher.