Courtenay is a commune in Loiret, in the Center region, the Loire Valley, 26 km northeast of Montargis, on the edge of the Yonne department.
Its vast territory of 50 square kilometers belongs to the natural region of Gâtinais forest landscapes and humid, and staked rich farmland.
Crossed by the course of the Clairis (also called Clery), the area includes several ponds south falling partly natural area "Ponds, meadows and forests of north-eastern Gâtinais".
The city developed in the Middle Ages on a road linking Orléans to Sens already developed in ancient times (a Roman road) and later will rally the Champagne fairs from the Loire Valley.
Rather prosperous, the lordship of Courtenay happening in the field of the kings of Navarre in the early fifteenth century and one of the kings of France. A membership that will give rise to disputes until mid-seventeenth century but which do not affect the vitality of the village.
Always driven by its geographical location, Courtenay now enjoys the close to junctions of the A6 (Paris-Lyon) and A19 (direction Orleans) that "cross" northeast of the town.
With approximately 4000 inhabitants, the city has preserved a green environment and leisure offer can justify a step between the Center and Burgundy. The opportunity to taste knows Bruandines, local sweets that pay tribute to the singer Aristide Bruant, native son.
If there are only rare remains of an ancient abbey founded in the Middle Ages and the old feudal castle, in terms of heritage, however, the discovery of the parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul is of interest.
Now protected as historical monuments, dating to its oldest parts of the twelfth century but the nave was rebuilt in the Renaissance (XVI), chapels punctuating the aisles vaulted. The bell tower is for her well before hand: the upper two floors of arcades belong to a primitive Romanesque style, and part of the equipment has even traces of Roman techniques. The tower would have been that of a previous church serving an abbey founded in 1132 by Louis VI said Gros and occupied by monks from Cluny.
The church houses a Christ finely crafted crosses and vestments have been classified.
Finally, note that in north-east of the village, the hamlet L'Hôpiteau was established in the Middle Ages a commander with a chapel that stood hospital knights. It remains no trace.
The ancient village has, however, retained a certain charm.
Guided tours are offered in season. Information +33 2 38 97 47 53 or +33 2 38 28 52 71.
On the leisure sports plan and "nature", hikers are spoiled for Courtenay that runs through the course of the GR 132 connecting the Loiret Yonne following the course of the Clery. Moreover, no less than 20 new yellow marked trails have been built in recent years in part accessible to mountain bikes or riders. They allow you to enjoy the green environment of the locality and include incursions into neighboring territories. They include south areas protected for their flora and fauna typical of this part of Gâtinais. Maps and information +33 2 38 97 47 53 or +33 2 38 28 52 71.
At the old station this time, it's a nice fitness trail is available.
The fishermen are not left out: the Clery is ranked first category river and several lakes are arranged for them. Contact the local association to February 38 9704 39.
Finally, it is possible to book a tennis court with the +33 6 27 13 06 71.
In summer, located just next to the tennis complex, two outdoor pools to the public pool used to combine pleasure of swimming and sunbathing. Opened in July and August. Information at +33 2 38 16 66 53.
For culture, the media and the cultural and associative center of the town regularly programmed meetings, exhibitions, readings and performances. Information +33 2 38 97 34 95.
Finally, Cinémobile traveling cinema in the region is frequently Courtenay step. Price: 4.50 and 6.20 euros. Information at +33 2 47 56 08 08.
In mid-April spring festival with fairground attractions, musical entertainment and garage sale.
The third weekend of August, with trade fair exhibition events, concerts, flea market.
Every Thursday and Saturday morning farmers' market and artisan producers to discover and appreciate the rich terroir and the expertise of the region.
