Illiers combray

Illiers-Combray is a small town in the Eure-et-Loir department, in the Centre-Val de Loire region, best known for its connection to Marcel Proust, who spent childhood holidays here at his aunt's house and drew inspiration from the village to create the fictional Combray in his novel "In Search of Lost Time". The town officially added "Combray" to its name in tribute to the author. Visitors can explore his aunt Léonie's house, now a museum dedicated to Proust and his work, as well as the Pré Catelan garden, said to have inspired several passages in the novel. Saint-Jacques church, also mentioned in the book, is worth a visit for its architecture and atmosphere. The town retains a peaceful, rural character typical of the Beauce region, with old houses and quiet lanes. The surrounding countryside offers classic agricultural landscapes, ideal for walking or cycling. Chartres, about thirty kilometres away, makes an easy addition to a stay, with its renowned cathedral. Illiers-Combray appeals particularly to literature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic, tranquil countryside experience.