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Visiting the Vienne in France - 12 must-sees

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Located in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region Poitou CharentesA visit to the Vienne is the perfect destination for anyone who loves culture, marvels at nature or is in search of adrenalin. Whether you're traveling alone, with friends or with the family, you're sure to find enriching activities and visits in the Vienne that will meet your expectations.

This article presents 12 unforgettable experiences to enjoy during your visit to the Vienne region. UNESCO World Heritage wonders, picturesque villages full of charm, cutting-edge theme parks, places to relax and play await you. Get ready to immerse yourself in an exceptional world.

So, are you ready to embark on a unique adventure in France's Vienne department? Let us guide you!

1. Must-see attractions for technophiles and families

For lovers of thrills, unique discoveries and innovative entertainment, visiting the Vienne region means discovering a host of technological and family attractions not to be missed. Discover three exceptional sites to visit without fail!

Futuroscope Park: a plunge into the future

With its unique concept, Futuroscope Park transports you to a world of stunning immersive and interactive adventures, thanks to innovative use of multimedia, cinematographic and audiovisual technologies. Explore more than 40 attractions and shows to suit all ages and preferences, including a fascinating trip back in time with the Rabbids, a wild dance with the robots, a lyrical flight over the world with the Firebird or a breathtaking night-time show combining enchantment and aquatics.

Experience a futuristic, playful and magical getaway at Futuroscope!

Land of Dragons: an incredible adventure among exotic reptiles

Terre de Dragons opens the doors to a wildlife park dedicated exclusively to the fascinating world of exotic reptiles. Discover over 300 animal species, from imposing crocodiles to the most discreet, in a bioclimatic dome designed to faithfully reproduce their natural habitat.

Engage in fun and educational activities such as an alligator treetop adventure course, a touch pool for petting turtles and a Scenovision® investigation game plunging you into the mysterious world of dragons. Terre de Dragons promises an extraordinary and captivating escape!

DéfiPlanet': a fun ecological adventure

DéfiPlanet' is a vacation destination like no other when it comes to visiting the Vienne region, offering you the chance to take part in an ecological adventure while having fun at the same time. Treat yourself to unusual accommodation, whether in a leprechaun house, a castle nestled in the trees or a secret hideaway. Enjoy a range of sporting, recreational and culinary activities, including a swimming pool area, an adventure game, equestrian activities and the Ecological Lagoon, a new feature expected in 2024.

DéfiPlanet' transports you to a world apart, where the challenge is to help save our planet!

2. Visit Vienne - Cultural and historical discoveries

The Vienne département is a veritable treasure trove for heritage, culture and history enthusiasts. Here's a selection of five emblematic sites to explore during your stay.

Poitiers, the city of 100 steeples: a dive into history

The capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Poitiers is a historic city, the scene of famous battles such as that of Clovis against the Visigoths in 507, and that of Charles Martel against the Saracens in 732. Its architectural heritage is exceptional, with remarkable Romanesque churches such as Notre-Dame-la-Grande and Saint-Hilaire-le-Grand, and Gothic monuments such as Saint-Pierre Cathedral and the Palace of the Dukes of Aquitaine.

Discover the St. John Baptistery, the oldest Christian monument in the West, and the Musée Sainte-Croix, the largest museum in the region.

Saint-Savin Abbey: the brilliance of medieval frescoes

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Saint-Savin Abbey is a masterpiece of Romanesque art. It houses an impressive collection of wall paintings from the 11th and 12th centuries, illustrating scenes from the Old and New Testaments.

Admire the 400 m² of frescoes adorning the nave vault, visit the crypt housing the relics of saints Savin and Cyprien, or climb up to the bell tower-porch for a panoramic view of the Gartempe valley. A multimedia interpretation area invites you to immerse yourself in the day-to-day life of the monk copyists.

Cité de l'Ecrit et des Métiers du Livre in Montmorillon: a literary journey

Unique in France, the Cité de l'Ecrit et des Métiers du Livre is nestled in the heart of Montmorillon's medieval quarter. Stroll through its picturesque alleyways, dotted with some twenty stores specializing in books, book crafts and the arts, including bookshops, bouquinistes, calligraphers, illustrators and bookbinders. Don't miss the typewriter and calculator museum, with its collection of over 200 items, and take part in the various events, exhibitions and workshops on offer.

Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers: the romantic ruins

Dating back to the 13th century, Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers was transformed over the centuries before being destroyed by fire in 1932, leaving most of its structure in ruins. Nature has reclaimed its rights, giving the site a striking character, with its towers, windows and staircases colonized by vegetation. Bought back in 2017 by over 27,000 donors through a crowdfunding campaign, the project aims to preserve and restore this historic monument.

Angles-sur-l'Anglin: picturesque charm of one of France's most beautiful villages

Angles-sur-l'Anglin stands out as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, captivating visitors with its picturesque charm. The village is crowned by the imposing remains of a medieval castle, towering majestically above the Anglin, which meanders below. Stroll through the narrow streets, framed by centuries-old houses, and marvel at the 12th-century Sainte-Croix chapel, or the water mill, which is still in operation.

And don't miss Roc-aux-Sorciers, an exceptional prehistoric site renowned for its impressive 14,000-year-old parietal sculptures.

3. Nature experiences and relaxation

If the idea of reconnecting with nature, having fun and being amazed appeals to you, the Vienne département is full of opportunities to enjoy natural splendors and their benefits. Discover four exceptional sites for unforgettable moments.

Vallée des Singes: an intimate encounter with nature

Monkey Valley is distinguished by its unique concept in France: a wildlife park where over 450 monkeys live in semi-liberty on 22 hectares of conserved nature. Here, you can get up close to the primates without any fences or cages, watch their feeding sessions with commentary, and even meet rare and endangered species such as gorillas, bonobos, orangutans and lemurs.

It offers a remarkably close experience with nature and its inhabitants.

Domaine du Lac de Saint-Cyr: aquatic leisure and relaxation

Located 15 minutes from Poitiers, the Domaine du Lac de Saint-Cyr is the ideal place for relaxation and water activities. Enjoy a fine sandy beach to Pavillon Bleu standards and supervised swimming areas from June to August. There's no shortage of water sports: canoeing, kayaking, pedal-boating, sailing or stand-up paddling await you.

Walks and bike rides around the lake, picnic areas, sports fields and playgrounds complete the leisure offer.

Center Parcs, Domaine du Bois aux Daims: a family escape in the heart of nature

The Domaine du Bois aux Daims Center Parcs is the perfect family getaway, surrounded by nature. Stay in comfortable cottages or try the unusual experience of tree houses. Aqua Mundo, a playful aquatic area with slides, water games and a tropical lagoon, promises fun for all.

Discover the flora and fauna of the estate, home to fallow deer, wild boar, birds and exotic plants.

Discover Chauvigny and its majestic medieval castles by bike

The medieval town of Chauvigny boasts a rich heritage, dominated by five fortified castles overlooking the Vienne valley. Explore the best-preserved Château d'Harcourt, discover the Gouzon dungeon and its space dedicated to industrial archaeology, or visit the Château des Evêques de Poitiers, famous for the Géants du Ciel show. The town and surrounding area are also ideal for cycling excursions, thanks to the greenway and signposted routes.

Conclusion

As you can see, exploring Vienne in France means diving into a diversity of enriching experiences. Plan your stay in Vienne now. Whether your heart is set on technological journeys and family adventures at Parc du Futuroscope, Terre de Dragons or DéfiPlanet', on history and culture through Poitiers, Saint-Savin Abbey, Cité de l'Ecrit, Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers or Angles-sur-l'Anglin, or for tranquillity and adventure in the heart of nature at Vallée des Singes, Domaine du Lac de Saint-Cyr, Center Parcs or Chauvigny, the Vienne promises memorable experiences. You can also extend your stay and visit Charente Maritime, the Charenteor Deux-Sèvres.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by, pack your bags today for a magical time in the Vienne!

FAQ

When is the best time to visit Vienne?

Vienne is best visited between May and September, with pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall. This is the perfect time to explore the region's green spaces, lakes, pools and vineyards.

What means of transport are available to get around the Vienne department?

There are several ways to get around Vienne:

• The train, connecting major cities such as Poitiers, Châtellerault and Montmorillon.
• The Lignes en Vienne bus network serves rural and suburban areas.
• The car, ideal for exploring the departmental roads and the A10 and A20 freeways.
• Cycling, for those who want to discover the countryside and heritage on cycle paths and cycle routes.

What historic and cultural sites are not to be missed in the Vienne department?

Visiting the Vienne region means discovering a host of historical and cultural highlights, including :

• Futuroscope, an innovative theme park offering spectacular attractions.
• Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe Abbey, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of Romanesque art, famous for its 11th and 12th century murals.

What are the gastronomic specialities of the Vienne department?

The gastronomy of the Vienne is rich and varied, with specialities such as :

• Le broyé du Poitou, a dry cake made with butter, flour and sugar.
• Chabichou, a goat's cheese with a bloomy rind.
• Le tourteau fromager, a puff pastry filled with fromage blanc.
• Melon, a sweet, juicy fruit typical of the region.
• Macaroon, a soft almond cookie.
• The wine, made from the fermentation of local grapes.

Not forgetting other delicacies such as farci poitevin, caillebotte, grimolle and nougatine du Poitou.