The top 9 castles to visit in the Vienne
Living History
©Loïc LAGARDE Staying in the Vienne, let yourself be seduced by visiting castles. Surrounded by picturesque landscapesthese architectural treasures transport you to the era of knights, kings and medieval intrigue. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover or simply in search of wonder, the castles of the Vienne offer you an unforgettable experience. Here are the top 9 castles to visit in the Vienne.
1. The Romanticism of Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers
It is hidden in the heart of lush vegetation that the Chateau de la Mothe-Chandeniers offers you a fairy tale experience. With family or friends, prepare to be amazed by this architectural jewel of unique beauty. True architectural madness XNUMXth century neo-gothicrd century, the Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers was ravaged by a fire in 1932 and abandoned for 85 years. Since then, the ruined building has imagined a new life in symbiosis with nature.
Did you know that it belongs to nearly 28 co-castelains?
2. Through the History of Vienne at the Château de Monts-sur-Guesnes
North of the Vienne, a few kilometers from Loudon stands on castle of Monts-sur-Guesnes. Immerse yourself in a journey to the Past through the History of France and Poitou through the 8 rooms of the castle thanks to giant screens, 360° immersion, animated installations, interactive games. The castle of Monts-sur-Guesnes has seen emblematic figures such as Eleanor of Aquitaine and her son Richard the Lionheart pass through.
During this discovery, sit at Eleanor's banquet in the company of her court, listen to the story of the Hundred Years' War, and participate in different games, including those straight from the Middle Ages.
3. Take part in the game at Château de Monthoiron
Experience great family adventures at Monthoiron Castle. Push open the doors of this castle and get to know its history closely linked to that of the famous Leonardo DeVinci. It is the Castle Tower-Fortress which makes this place famous today.
As a family, embark on a crazy adventure to find Leonardo da Vinci's treasure with a puzzle trail. After this investigation, go and meet the LEGO animals of the castle with the family treasure hunt “ Karmanor's Secret "!
4. A family story at the Château de Ternay
A few minutes from Loudun to the north of the Vienne stands on Chateau de Ternay. With family or friends, take part in a visit full of anecdotes led with force and humor for the owner himself Loïc de Ternay. Throughout this visit, admire these majestic cedars, lime trees and black locust trees, these period lounges, this interior courtyard and this Gothic chapel.
Don’t leave without playing this investigation for the whole family “ Who is this knight » appearing among the “ Expériences Famille ". Find the identity of this knight because he has lost his memory and no longer knows who he is... If you find the right answer he will reward you !
©Loic LAGARDE5. The Château d’Epanvilliers or the Museum of Ancient Games
South of the Vienne, come and visit the Château d'Epanvilliers, classified as a Historic Monument, for its beautiful facades and roof. Throughout your visit, keep your eyes wide open and admire the chapel, the portal and the moat, the staircase with its wrought iron banister, the small living room. Your visit doesn’t end there! The owner will share his passion for games and artificial intelligence with you in the Museum of Ancient Games.
I visit the Château d’Epanvilliers
©Sébastien LAVAL6. The Château de Coussay, a treasure open to the countryside
Located in the Upper Poitou, Coussay castle invites you to the heart of the monuments of the first French Renaissance. Built by Bishop Denis Briçonnet who was prior of Coussay, the place offers you a peaceful atmosphere open to the countryside. Observe and admire the style of the castle, inspired by the innovative beauty of the Italian Renaissance.
All year round, freely visit the exterior of the castle by walking around the outside of the moat on the private path. For guided tours, contact theHaut-Poitou Tourist Office.
7. Love at first sight at Purnon Castle
The municipality of Wart north of the Vienne houses one of the most beautiful castles of the end of the XNUMXth centuryrd century Purnon Castle. For more than two years, Felicity Selkrik and Tim Holding, originally from Melbourne, Australia, have been the happy owners. The couple, who have been living in France since 2014, have literally fallen in love with the old continent. Tim takes Felicity, director of a web agency, on his quest for a castle to restore.
Discover the history of this castle during European Heritage Days on September 14 and 15, 2024. On the program: guided tour of the castle, demonstration of bread baking, stone cutting, conference to discover the end of the first phase of the work catering!
©Thomas JELINEK – Agence Zebrelle8. Elegance at Château des Ormes
Treat yourself to an immersion in the Age of Enlightenment with the Château des Ormes with its glorious past, its church with its very particular style and its majestic Horse Post. This town not far from Chatellerault is the ideal place for a family visit or a wedding! Throughout your visit, you will be charmed by this large vestibule and its superb staircase, this gallery of more than 60 meters long, salons adorned with woodwork and dining room stucco and marble. Outside the building, stroll along the paths of the French garden, faithfully recreated according to the plans of the time.
9. Family history at the Château de Montreuil-Bonnin
Come visit the castle of Montreuil-Bonnin which has been watching over its inhabitants and the Boivre valley. witness to themedieval military architecture, the fortified castle played a leading defensive and economic role, fromera of the Plantagenets to that of the Wars of Religion. Today, Isabelle Dupont de Beaucorps is the owner and manager, with her husband Jérôme. A backup mission that she carries out full time. Discover their story!
©Thomas JELINEK – Agence ZebrelleAnd if you are a history buff and a fan of ancient monuments, find all the castles of the Vienne !