Grez-sur-Loing: Discover this superb authentic medieval village in Seine-et-Marne along the river

Grez-sur-Loing, a village in bloom, gracefully stretches its landscape along the left bank of the Loing. Here, the riverbanks are a haven of peace, where you can relax, fish or glide along peacefully in a boat or canoe. The cobbled streets reveal a preciously preserved medieval heritage, including three remarkable buildings and vaulted cellars. Historically, the fortified village had four gates and was a strategic point between the royal road and the river Loing, where goods for Paris passed through.

With its rich history, it features :

• The 17th-century stone bridge: despite its many damages, its reconstruction has preserved its original essence.
  

• La tour de Ganne: Built in the late 12th century, this tower defended the Île-de-France region against threats from Burgundy and Champagne. A place steeped in history, it was here that Louise de Savoie, mother of François 1er, died in 1531.
  

• Notre-Dame et Saint-Laurent church: probably founded on a Gallic temple around 1180, it features floor tiles decorated with the fleur-de-lis, the royal symbol.

But Grez-sur-Loing is also an artistic destination. Between 1860 and 1914, the village attracted painters, sculptors and writers from all over the world. Under the motto "Come to Grez!", these artists, inspired by the atmosphere of the place, abandoned Paris to devote themselves to plein-air painting. They stayed with local people or in local hotels such as Chevillon and Beauséjour. Today, the town hall houses a museum with a collection of works from this period, initiated by Fernande Sadler.

For those looking for a good deal, here's what we highly recommend:

• To be read
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• 8 superb medieval villages to discover around Paris
• Tips for the week of December 23 - 29, 2024 in Paris: free or cheap outings

• La tour de Ganne: Listed as a historic monument, this is the vestige of an ancient medieval château. The gardens, painted by renowned artists such as Larsson and Corot, have been restored to their former glory.
  

• Nineteenth-century washhouses: One of these was immortalized by painter Asai Chū.
  
  

• The 3,000 m2 park: It surrounds the ruins and offers a panoramic view of bygone days, with a fleurdelysée royal milestone marking the site.
  
  

• The canoe trip
  In your canoe, you'll explore the picturesque villages of Grez sur Loing, Episy, Montigny sur Loing and charming Moret sur Loing. A canoe trip for an unforgettable and enjoyable experience!
  

In short, Grez-sur-Loing is a destination that we share with you as a nugget to be discovered, a journey through time that marvels at its beauty and history.