Loches Awarded Third Star in Michelin Travel & Culture Guide 2026
The royal city of Loches, located in the Indre-et-Loire region of France, has received a third star in the 2026 edition of the Michelin Travel & Culture Guide, the guide’s highest distinction. This recognition highlights the city’s significant heritage, cultural richness, and scenic beauty, making it “worth the trip,” according to Michelin examiners. France 3 Centre-Val de Loire reports the award acknowledges substantial development efforts within the city.
A Concentrate of Heritage
Situated on a rocky spur overlooking the Indre valley, Loches has been a fortified site since the 11th century, featuring a keep reaching 36 meters in height. The local tourist office notes that the fortress has historical ties to figures such as Henry II Plantagenet, Richard the Lionheart, and Louis XI. Initially serving military purposes, it was later transformed into a royal prison. A thriving city developed around the fortress, benefiting from its location on the Franco-Spanish trade route. In the 13th century, the Royal Logis was constructed, hosting notable figures like Charles VII, Agnès Sorel, Joan of Arc, and Anne of Brittany.
The Tourist Offer is Developing
Loches continues to enhance its appeal through various events, including Les Médiévales de Loches in August and Christmas in the land of castles in December. Improvements to visitor experiences include 3D visits to the dungeon, a redesigned scenography at the royal residence, a tour marked with coats of arms, and a digital treasure hunt. The New Republic reports Jean-François Thull, responsible for the royal city, stated these improvements aim to provide a more engaging experience.
The royal city welcomes approximately 90,000 visitors annually, with ongoing efforts to renovate buildings into high-end hotels and restaurants. Jean-François Thull indicated a goal of reaching 100,000 visitors, while similarly aiming to avoid overtourism.