The Chemin de Saint-Martin is a pilgrimage and long-distance walking route originating at the Basilique Saint-Martin in the heart of Tours, Indre-et-Loire, and running 230 kilometres south to the ancient pilgrimage city of Le Puy-en-Velay in Haute-Loire. The route follows the footsteps of medieval pilgrims travelling to venerate Saint Martin of Tours — one of the most important saints of early Christian France — and connects the Loire Valley with the volcanic uplands of the Massif Central.
Day sections within the Centre-Val de Loire region typically cover 15 to 25 kilometres, with elevation changes of 50 to 150 metres as the route crosses valleys, rivers, and the gentle escarpments of the Touraine hills south of Tours. The surface alternates between forest paths, ancient chemins creux (sunken lanes), vineyard tracks, and minor tarmac roads. Shade is available through woodland stretches near Montbazon and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, while ridge sections offer open agricultural views.
Walkers begin at the Basilique Saint-Martin on Rue Descartes in Tours, where pilgrim credentials (crédentials du pèlerin) can be obtained and stamped. The route is waymarked with distinctive scallop-shell and cross-shaped GR-style blazes. Key landmarks on the Touraine sections include the Prieuré de Saint-Cosme near La Riche (the final residence of the poet Ronsard), the medieval fortress at Montbazon with panoramic Loire views, and the wine-producing town of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine.
Accommodation along the route includes gîtes d'étapes at intervals of 15–20 kilometres for pilgrims, as well as standard chambres d'hôtes and hotels in larger towns. Water fountains are available in villages; carrying 1.5–2 litres is advisable on rural stretches. No permit is required beyond the optional pilgrim credential, which provides access to reduced-price pilgrim accommodation.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Tours and Loire Valley, Indre-et-Loire
- Best season
- April–June and September–October
What to bring
- Walking boots
- Pilgrim credential (crédential du pèlerin — available at the Basilique Saint-Martin)
- Backpack 25–35L
Location
Starting point: Basilique Saint-Martin, 3 Rue Descartes, 37000 Tours, France
47.3921, 0.6873 View on map
Highlights
- Basilique Saint-Martin in Tours — spiritual starting point housing the tomb of Saint Martin of Tours
- Medieval sunken lanes (chemins creux) through Touraine vineyards and bocage countryside
- Prieuré de Saint-Cosme near La Riche — Renaissance garden and final home of poet Pierre de Ronsard
- Panoramic views from the Montbazon fortress ruins over the Indre valley
- Pilgrim credential stamps collected at churches and abbeys along the route
Tips for visiting
- Collect the pilgrim credential (crédential) at the Basilique Saint-Martin before setting out — it unlocks discounted gîte accommodation along the route.
- Book gîtes d'étapes at least one week ahead for May, June, and September, which are the busiest pilgrimage months.
- Carry 2 litres of water on stretches between Montbazon and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine where villages are sparse.
- Walking poles help significantly on the descent into the Indre valley south of Tours during wet autumn conditions.
- Day-section access is possible via TER trains to Montbazon or Sainte-Maure — confirm taxi return options before committing to a long section.
When to visit
April to June and September to October offer the most comfortable conditions for walking — mild temperatures, lower rainfall, and colourful countryside. July and August are hot and exposed on open agricultural sections south of Tours.
Accessibility
The Chemin de Saint-Martin includes extended sections of unpaved chemins creux, forest paths, and vineyard tracks that are not accessible by wheelchair or pushchair. The approach to the Basilique Saint-Martin in Tours is on flat urban pavements. Rural sections involve stiles, uneven surfaces, and steep valley crossings unsuitable for reduced mobility.
Frequently asked questions
Do walkers need to be religious or complete the full pilgrimage?
No. The Chemin de Saint-Martin is open to all walkers regardless of religious motivation. Many visitors complete individual day sections or the Touraine portion only.
Where is the pilgrim credential obtained?
Credentials are available at the Basilique Saint-Martin on Rue Descartes in Tours. They are optional but provide access to discounted gîte accommodation along the route.
What is the difficulty of the day sections in Touraine?
Day sections of 15–20 km in the Loire and Indre valleys involve moderate climbs of 50–150 m. The terrain is accessible to regular walkers with basic fitness but may be demanding for beginners on longer sections.
Are there pilgrim gîtes along the whole route?
Yes. Gîtes d'étapes catering specifically to pilgrims are spaced at 15–20 km intervals along the route. Advance booking is recommended in spring and autumn.