Are you going to visit the Vendée? Discover the best things to do and see in Vouvant, charming bucolic village.
Vouvant is a charming little town of Vendée , in the region of Pays de la Loire. Located in the south of the vendéen bocage and close to the Poitevin marsh, it is a natural destination par excellence. But going to visit Vouvant is also going to discover one of the most beautiful French villages . Indeed, located at the top of a hill, bordered by the river Mother, Vouvant is the only fortified city in Vendée to ever exist.
Thus, if you are looking for what to do in Vouvant, you will have the embarrassment of choice. In addition to being in the midst of nature in the heart of a magnificent forest massif that bears its name, the village is also a den for artists and craftsmen of all kinds. So you want to come and visit Vouvant? Follow the guide!
Also: Where to eat in Vouvant?
1. The Mélusine Tower
One of the best things to do in Vouvant is to visit the Mélusine tower which dates from the 13th century. Melusine was a legendary fairy of the area whose legs turned into a snaketail on Saturday night. It would be the ancestor of the family of the accounts of Lusignan which reigned over Vouvant for centuries.
The Mélusine Tower is all that remains of their castle, which Mélusine would have built in one night... Inside you will find a small local history museum, as well as the Tourist Office. After asking the key to the Tourist Office, don’t hesitate to climb the spiral staircase leading to its summit. From its 45 meters high, you will have a perfect view of the Vouvant-Mervan forest and the village.
2. The nef Theodelin
But you can't go to Vouvant without going through the nef Théodelin. Formerly attached to the church, it is now a temporary exhibition site.
Each year, from April to October, exhibitions of different artists from the region follow each other and promote contemporary art in rural areas. The events that take place are usually free, so don’t miss a nice discovery if you’re looking for a cheap activity to do in Vouvant.
3. The church Notre-Dame de l’Assomption de Vouvant
Just next to the nave, you will find the Church of Vouvant. Dating from the 11th century, it is about 1,000 years old! In Romanesque style, it has been repeatedly destroyed and restored throughout history.
It has been classified as Historical Monument since 1840. Nowadays, when you go to Vouvant, you can still admire the choir and the apse before pushing further before the walk.
4. The gardens of Vouvant
If you are looking for an outdoor activity to do in Vouvant, why not browse the gardens of the city? There are several, all different, and you can walk from one to another. A good opportunity to see the village in all the seams when you go to Vouvant!
The garden of the painters
It is Vouvant Village de Peintres, the association that manages the nef Théodelin, which created this garden in 2008. Located close to the city’s multi-purpose hall, exhibitions and events are held regularly.
The garden of the Priory
Behind the church of Notre Dame de l’Assomption, you will find a small garden that will remind you of the gardens of monks. In several plessis squares, you will discover pottery and medicinal plants. It is also a very quiet place where to enjoy a little break before continuing its walk.
The public garden
When you go to Vouvant, do not hesitate to start your walk by the public garden. Indeed, it overlooks the barracks and ramparts of the city and offers a privileged view of the Mother River, which belts this most beautiful French village on three sides.
The garden of the senses
Since 2010, this garden presents to its visitors medicinal, aromatic and tinctorial plants cultivated according to the principles of agroecology.
In 2016, it was classified as “Refuge LPO”, which means that it is maintained according to techniques that respect biodiversity and the environment. If you are going to visit Vouvant, you may be able to attend one of the many animations that take place.
The garden of the Fournil
This garden is part of a nice walk to Vouvant. Located close to the old Romanesque bridge and the 17th century spout, it is a French garden type. You can walk among the hedges and topiaries, or stop there for a picnic.
5. The Ecomusée Les Ateliers de la Mère
Here is an original activity to do in Vouvant. In this associative ecomuseum, you can admire a collection of old tools that belonged to the same family of carpenters and carpenters for three generations.
But that’s not all! For it is also a matter of dialogue with Artisanat with Art. Canvas are therefore permanently or temporarily exposed among the tools to be sold. A place out of the beaten paths to see when you go to Vouvant!
How to get to Vouvant
Would you like to go to Vouvant? Follow the guide!
By car
The car is undoubtedly the most convenient way to visit Winning because no buses are serving the city.
- From Poitiers: about 130 km and 1:30 travel. Borrow theA10 andA83. Exit 7.1 and follow the D206;
- From La-Roche-sur-Yon: about 70 km and 50 minutes travel. We must borrow the D948 and theA83 ;
- From Niort: about 40 km and 40 minutes travel. The fastest is to borrow the D744 and the D31.
By train
If you decide to take the train to visit The nearest train station is Fontenay-le-Comte, located 15 kilometres away. From there you can borrow the bus line 292 that serves Les Orettes.
Where to stay in Vouvant
You have several things to do in Vouvant and you want to stay there several days? It is possible to stay on site, but keep in mind that it is a small village. The offer is therefore limited.
Nevertheless, several lodgings, hotels and guest rooms are available to you. Do not hesitate to use a hotel comparison to find the most advantageous rates.
So prepare your luggage and go to Vouvant!
Loading comments ...