10 Reasons to visit the Departement of Vienne

1. An idyllic location
Located between Paris and Bordeaux, La Vienne is within easy reach of various Loire Valley châteaux, not to mention the towns of Cognac and Poitiers (capital of La Vienne) and still only 75 minutes from the Atlantic!

2. Futuroscope theme park
Enjoy a great escape with your family and take your pick of more than 30 thrilling experiences. The park is buzzing with new attractions, live shows, unexpected encounters and more…

3. Wild animal parks
You don’t have to go on a far-flung expedition to observe and learn about nature and traditional cultures. Try the sustainable and eco-friendly holidays on offer in La Vienne, like Monkey Valley. Unique in France, it is home to the Bonobos breed and you can their habitat in freedom.

4. A rich legacy
La Vienne is home to a wealth of Romanesque art and some of France’s most famous historical figures. Try the activities on offer at the Cité de l’Ecrit (Village of the Written Word) in Medieval Montmorillon and don’t miss the Abbey of Saint-Savin, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and no wonder!

5. Show time
There are over 3,000 events held here every year, ranging from music and dance to theatre and festivals. The National Heritage Days are highly recommended, including the Medieval Fair in Château-Larcher in September. Poitiers is a lively place and home to one of the largest universities in France.

6. Gastronomy, a way of life
Restaurateurs and producers work closely together to create fine cuisine from local produce. Not only that, La Vienne is a draw for wine lovers everywhere with its caves, 50 wine producers and environmentally-friendly production methods.

7. Recharge your batteries
La Vienne’s stylish spas feature the latest facilities and staff trained in the finest treatment rituals. Slip into the comforting, relaxing and stimulating water. Just let go and be pampered. Treat yourself at the Normandoux Mansion Hotel in La Roche-Posay or the Abyssea Centre in Civaux.

8. Golf, the drive of your life
With four well-equipped and very different 18-hole courses for both beginners and experts, La Vienne rolls out the green carpet for golfers. In Saint-Cyr, Mignaloux-Beauvoir, Roiffé or La Roche-Posay, you can find the best courses as well as exquisite treats in their restaurants.

9. Extra-ordinaire!
Looking for an amazing experience, an adrenaline rush or an opportunity to take the plunge? Do something different and transport yourself beyond your wildest dreams with an afternoon (or more!) spent canoeing, cable waterskiing, hiking or riding.

10. Romance and delightful accommodation
Here, you’ll find everything from the height of luxury to simple elegance, where quality is key. Lord it up in a château or experience a stay in a gypsy caravan, treetop cabin or warm chambres d’hôtes – the choice is yours.