Fontenay le Comte: ‘Worthy of a visit – one of the most beautiful towns in France’
To be found in the surrounding countryside:
The Marais Poitevin (Green Venice) just five minutes away by car or a pretty 20 minute walk; La Rochelle and the Island of Re about 20 minutes away by car.
The Puy de Fou and Cinescenie (medieval theme park) 1 hour away by motorway and Futuroscope 75 minutes away by motorway.
Guided Visits
The Fontenay le Comte - Renaissance tour in the footsteps of Rabelais, the fountains of the 4 Tias, the hotel Pérate, the church of Notre Dame …
The Museum - with its exhibition of Gallo Roman glass and 14th century furniture …
The 16th century Chateau of Terre Neuve with its collection of fine antique furniture and paintings.
The medieval village of Vouvant – ‘one of the prettiest in France’ with its’ painters and its’ legend of the fairy, Melusine.
Mervent – a huge forest of 5000 hectares
Nieul sur l’Autise with its Royal Abbey and mill house.
Foussais Payré – a renaissance village
Faymoreau - an old mining centre
Boats trips to discover the Marais Poitevin can be found at the following locations:
Maillezais: (this can be followed by a visit to the ancient Abbey); Damvix; Le Mazeau; Maillé; Saint Sigismund .
And in the region of the Deux Sevres, the village of Coulon where one can visit the marshland house and see typical Poitou houses.
La Rochelle – visit the old town, its port, the Chaine Towers, the cathedrale, modern aquarium or take a sea trip and discover the islands.
The Island of Ré - Discover its historic and architectural past; visit its museums and Abbey and admire its lovely beaches along the way.
The Puy du Fou or Grand Parc - situated in natural parkland, it provides a multitude of attractions and shows depicting historical events and settings – such as the Musketeers of Richelieu, Roman gladiators and medieval and 18th century villages. The Cinescenie is an evening show that takes place on the largest stage on earth – a unique dramatic extravaganza set to music.
Evening show
Advised visiting times:
Half day or 1 to 2 days
1 day and evening or
To see every event 2 days and 1 evening
1 day and evening or 2 days
