Sentier du Coteau de Bray (Touraine hills, near Blois)

The Sentier du Coteau de Bray is a 12-kilometre loop trail departing from the parking area on the D24 near Huisseau-sur-Cosson in Loir-et-Cher, situated 15 kilometres from the Château de Chambord. The route climbs the prominent coteaux (limestone escarpments) that rise above the Cosson valley floor, offering the most elevated walking terrain in the immediate Chambord area and delivering sweeping views across the hunting forest and the flatlands of the Loire plain.

The trail begins on the D24 track and ascends steadily through mixed oak and chestnut woodland before reaching the open ridge sections that constitute the walk's most exposed terrain. The 160-metre cumulative ascent is distributed across several moderate climbs rather than a single sustained effort, making the circuit manageable for walkers of moderate fitness. The descent follows a sunken lane through hedgerow bocage before returning to the valley floor.

Surface underfoot is predominantly compacted earth and forest track, with limestone rubble sections on the upper ridge that can be slippery in wet conditions. The ridge provides unobstructed sun exposure — sunscreen and a sun hat are advisable in summer. Water is not available on the circuit; carrying at least a litre is recommended for summer visits. No cafés or facilities are present on the trail itself; the nearest provisions are in Huisseau-sur-Cosson or at Chambord.

The walk passes several viewpoints overlooking the Forêt de Chambord, one of the largest enclosed hunting forests in Europe at 5,440 hectares, still surrounded by the original 32-kilometre wall commissioned by François I. Deer, wild boar, and a rich birdlife are commonly observed from the ridge in early morning. The trailhead parking area on the D24 is free and holds approximately 15–20 vehicles.