The Top 15 Essentials in the Vienne

You planned a stay in the Vienne ? Impossible to miss these 15 emblematic sites ranging from the unmissable Futuroscope park to the Saint-Savin abbey, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, or even to the Floating Village of Pressac for an unusual and peaceful stay. There Vienne won't stop surprising you!

Family at the Château de Mont sur Guesnes ©Agence Zebrelle Bastien SAUVE

1. The Futuroscope Park, all the forces of attraction

How to talk about Vienne without tackling Futuroscope? With family, friends or as a couple, get your fill of sensations with the Objectif Mars, Tornado Hunters or the Extraordinary Journey attractions. You will be attracted by an incredible and magical force: curiosity. For a stay in the heart of Futuroscope, pack your bags in the Cosmos Station hotel which will take you into space.

It's the perfect time to dive into the Aquascope – a must-try! And from June 28th, hold on tight: Bermuda Mission arrives with a good dose of thrills on the program!

2. Poitiers, the city of 100 steeples 

City of art and history, Poitiers is a must during your holidays. The city of 100 bell towers is full of remarkable buildings, starting with the church of Notre-Dame-La-Grande or, the palace. Stroll through the medieval-looking streets of the city center, you will be surprised to discover so many nuggets. For a relaxed moment in the green, go to Tison Island or the family Blossa Parkc

Please note that the Notre-Dame-la-Grande church is closed for restoration work until May 2027.

Poitiers Street

3. Angles-sur-l'Anglin, among the Most Beautiful Villages in France

Do you know Angles-sur-l'Anglin? It's time to meet him! Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, the village of Angles-sur-l'Anglin continues to reveal its picturesque beauty. Contemplate her magnificent fortress which dominates the whole village, take a walk along the Anglin, take the time to stroll through its charming alleys or travel through time with the Wizard Rock.

4. Valley of the Monkeys, an exotic day

A unique moment closer to the animals. Without cages or barriers, come and meet more 400 monkeys and 34 species. Participate in feedings, or become animal for a dayThis unique park in France works to protect primates and their natural environment. For budding explorers, enjoy Kaya's Adventure, a puzzle trail that is among the The Expériences Famille of the Vienne ! 

The Valley of the Apes©Agence Zebrelle – Bastien SAUVE

5. Abbey of Saint-Savin, an exceptional treasure

Contemplate the Abbey of Saint-Savin registered at Unesco World Heritage for its largest collection of murals in Europe! This visit is a real journey through time that can be done through several types of visits: self-guided, guided, with a digital tablet… From June 15, the Abbey will also offer a dramatized visit as well as an escape game! Something to delight the whole family!

6. Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers, worthy of fairy tales

Its remarkable architecture will transport you to a romantic era. Ravaged by flames and abandoned for almost a century, it came back to life in 2017 thanks to thousands of co-lords. The vegetation has invited itself inside the castle, giving it a crazy charm. Favorite for this masterpiece of nature.

7. Center Parcs, Domaine du Bois aux Daims: paradise for families

In the heart of nature, rest in the many accommodations offered and have fun in Aqua World, the incredible water park with its giant slides. Also take advantage of the many playgrounds, course in the trees, and stroll through the forest. Don't forget to pamper yourself at the spa in a tropical atmosphere. Many ocatering options are also available on site.

Center Parcs©Agence Zébrelle – Bastien Sauve

8. Chauvigny, medieval charm in all its splendor

Wander the streets of the medieval town of Chauvigny, a town listed among the Most beautiful detours in France, with multiple treasures and find the remains of its 1, 2, 3, 4…5 castles! Chauvigny is also the sky giants, this majestic spectacle of birds came from all over the world. For a fun and sporty activity, all in the saddle BikeRail, a superb opportunity to contemplate the magnificent panorama! 

9. Château de Monts sur Guesnes, when history and games become one…

Eat alongside of Eleanor of Aquitaine and his troubadours during a sumptuous buffet, relive the Hundred Years War with an immersive 360° film, challenge your loved ones with medieval games, attend catapult demonstrations, and become unbeatable on the history of Poitou…A vast program awaits you at Castle of Monts sur Guesnes, halfway between the Futuroscope park and Center Parcs.

Monts-sur-Guesnes Castle © Agence Zébrelle©Agence Zébrelle

10. Château de Monthoiron, a visit that combines history and fun

Just 30 minutes from Futuroscope, near Châtellerault, the Château de Monthoiron invites you to participate in puzzle games in order to discover the fascinating story of Leonardo da Vinci and the Tower-Fortress.
Go in search of Leonardo's Treasure and embark on a journey of 20 puzzles around the Fortress Tower, or venture into the great outdoors to uncover the Secret of Karmanor and save the forest!

11. Land of Dragons, 300 reptiles in a tropical atmosphere

Immerse yourself in the heart of a tropical dome where vegetation and reptiles are kings. Discover crocodilians, snakes, turtles and other exotic creatures on land or from a net suspended just above the pools. Continue your visit in the footsteps of Professor Sheppard, an original and immersive activity on the exciting theme of dragons!

land of dragons©Agence Zebrelle – Bastien SAUVE

12. City of Writing and Book Trades in Montmorillon, quite a history

To dive into the world of books, head to Montmorillon and his famous City of Writing. You will find a large number of quality shops dedicated to books. This city is the meeting between booksellers, booksellers but also craftsmen of the book trades such as bookbinders and calligraphers. It's a whole universe to discover. Also make a stop in the Typewriter and Calculating Machine Museum where more than 200 models are exhibited.

13. La Roche-Posay, spa queen with medieval allure

Did you know ? La Roche-Posay is classified 1st european spa dermatology station. In addition to the therapeutic virtues of its “velvet water” rich in silicon, La Roche-Posay immerses you in a medieval atmosphere as soon as you enter the city. Dominating the Creuse valley his dungeon and its fortified church, the spa town promises you a nice walk. Go to the bridge for another nice view.

La Roche Posay Medieval©Bastien SAUVE – Agence Zebrelle

14. Floating Village of Pressac, sleeping lulled by the water

Looking for an unusual experience? The journey begins by boat, until your cabin on the water at the Floating Village of Pressac, where you will live to the rhythm of the lake. A timeless moment in the heart of a preserved natural area, classified Natura 2000. Back on dry land, the village offers numerous activities for young and old: swimming pool, hiking trails, bicycles, playgrounds... as well as lodges and safari tents.

15. DéfiPlanet', having fun in the heart of an enchanted nature

Just 25 minutes south of Poitiers, DéfiPlanet' is a theme park full of surprises. With Mission Areka, travel around the world thanks to to its 5 villages and its animals (llamas, dromedaries, donkeys from Poitou…) and try to save the blue planet in the magic forest using elves and leprechauns. Fill up on nature activities and extend the adventure in one of the unusual accommodations of the park: tree houses, Mongolian yurts, animal houses... all while enjoying the new lagoon... There's something for everyone!

Lagoon view at DefiPlanet©Agence Zébrelle / Bastien SAUVE

Do you want more ?
Come on, we cheat, we give you a 16th 

16. Montmorillon macarons, between flavor and know-how

Want to take a little gourmet break? Taste the essential Montmorillon macaron, a specialty with a tender almond center, which has made Montmorillon famous since the 17th century.
Visit the museum to delve into the history of the Montmorillon macaron and visit the shops Rannou Métivier in the Vienne to find these delicious specialties.