The medieval town of Chauvigny
The medieval town of Chauvigny is one of the most remarkable sites in the region.
Overlooking the Vienne valley, it is home to several medieval castles and charming streets lined with historic houses.
A walk through the medieval town offers the opportunity to discover:
- magnificent panoramic views
- artisan shops
- art galleries
- typical restaurants
One of the region’s most famous attractions is “Les Géants du Ciel”.
This impressive bird of prey show takes place in the ruins of the Bishops’ Castle.
Visitors can admire majestic birds in flight in a truly spectacular historic setting.
Discover Restaurants in Chauvigny
Le Gaston
8 rue de Geisenheim – Chauvigny
+33 5 49 46 32 34
A delicious bistro-style cuisine where everyone will find something to enjoy.
The restaurant is particularly known for its homemade burgers, original fries, fresh salads and traditional côte à l’os.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the summer months.
La Bigorne
25 rue des Puys – Chauvigny
+33 5 49 56 05 40
A delicious bistro-style cuisine where everyone will find something to enjoy.
The restaurant is particularly known for its homemade burgers, original fries, fresh salads and traditional côte à l’os.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the summer months.ny.
La Belle Époque
1 rue Saint Pierre – Chauvigny
+33 5 49 46 55 23
Located at the foot of the Bishops’ Castle, where the “Les Géants du Ciel” show takes place.
An ideal spot for a meal before or after the show, with a magnificent view over Chauvigny and its castles.
Traditional French cuisine.
Local Markets and Regional Products
Market of Chauvigny
the main weekly market takes place on Saturday mornings (8 a.m. – 1 p.m.) in the market square in front of the town hall.
With more than 120 stalls, you will find local producers, regional products and a wide range of artisans.
A smaller market is also held:
• Tuesday morning
• Thursday morning
where you can buy fruit, vegetables, fish and meat.
Regional Products
Regional specialties not to be missed:
The Melon du Poitou
This delicious sweet melon is widely available in summer, both on local markets and in nearby supermarkets.
The Broyé du Poitou
A traditional butter biscuit with almonds, crisp and slightly sweet, which is typically broken by hand to share and enjoy together.
The Macaron de Montmorillon
A soft almond biscuit with a long history and even its own museum, which you can visit in Montmorillon.
Chabichou
A delicious small goat’s cheese, mild and creamy, with its characteristic cylindrical shape, perfect with a glass of wine.
Tourteau Fromager
A light goat’s cheese tart with a distinctive dark, slightly burnt-looking top, a real treat to enjoy as an aperitif, a snack or a dessert at any time of day.
For those who enjoy local flavours, the region is also known for its walnut oil, its beers (notably Montmorillon) and its wines (Chinon, Saumur…), all of which can easily be found on local markets or in nearby shops.
La Ferme de Maras
Located close to Clos de La Brelaisière, La Ferme de Maras is a goat farm with more than 150 goats.
The farm can be reached on foot from the property.
You can visit the farm and buy fresh products in the on-site shop.
Opening hours:
Wednesday – Thursday – Friday
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
and
5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
as well as Saturday evening.
Walks and Hiking Trails
From the gîte, several beautiful walks are possible.
A pleasant walk leads across the fields towards La Ferme de Maras.
In the other direction, after crossing the road, you reach the Mareuil state forest, ideal for hiking.
The Vienne region also offers numerous routes for:
• hiking
• cycling
• horse riding
The Chauvigny Velorail (rail bike experience)
A unique way to discover Chauvigny is by taking the Velorail, which follows the old railway line.
It is a very enjoyable activity that allows you to admire the landscape from a different perspective.
Booking is recommended.
10 rue de la Folie – Chauvigny
+33 5 49 88 93 63
Must-See Excursions
A must-visit, especially with children and teenagers but also enjoyable for adults, is Futuroscope. You can easily spend an entire day there, amazed and entertained from start to finish, and still want more.
An alternative for hot days, or on the contrary cold and rainy weather, is Aquascope, a covered 6,000 m² space maintained at 29°C all year round, featuring impressive lighting effects and special effects.
It is recommended to book in advance for both parks.
You will find all practical information at:
https://www.futuroscope.com/fr/infospratiques
Poitiers is also well worth a visit. It is a medieval city rich in history, art and culture, home to the Palace of the Dukes of Aquitaine and the Counts of Poitiers (including Eleanor of Aquitaine, Queen of France and later England, and mother of Richard the Lionheart). The city is also known for its many churches, including the remarkable Notre-Dame-la-Grande.
Angle-sur-l’Anglin, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, is another must-see. Its stunning bridge over the Anglin River, breathtaking views from the ruins of the fortress, and the “Roc des Sorciers” museum—where you can explore prehistoric art—are well worth the visit.
Near Chauvigny lies the village of Saint-Savin, whose abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey houses an exceptional collection of frescoes that can be visited individually or in groups, with or without a guide, using digital (tablet) or audio (headphones) formats.
For those who love castles, the Middle Ages and history, there are many sites to explore:
- The fairytale Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers
- The five castles of Chauvigny
- Château de Monts-sur-Guesnes
- Château de Monthoiron
Nature and animal lovers will also find plenty to enjoy:
- La Vallée des Singes
- Terre de Dragons, home to more than 30,000 reptiles
- Domaine de Dienné
Do not hesitate to ask us for advice or further information.
We will be happy to guide you to the relevant websites with practical information and booking options.
You will also find additional details in the brochures available on request.
Things to Do in the Region
• kayaking
• canoeing
• cycling
• hiking
• horse riding
• medieval festivals
• markets
• shows
The “Les Géants du Ciel” bird of prey shows in the medieval town of Chauvigny – a must-see.
Need some advice?
Do not hesitate to ask us for advice when planning your stay.
We can help you find:
• the best places to visit
• activities
• restaurants
• booking options
Tourist brochures are also available in the gîte..
Useful Links
https://www.chauvigny.fr/index.php/tourisme-patrimoine/autour-de-chauvigny-rayon-de-30-kms
https://chauvigny-patrimoine.fr/Visiter/cite_medievale.php
https://www.terre-de-dragons.com/
https://www.futuroscope.com/fr/
https://velorail-chauvigny.fr/
https://la-vallee-des-singes.fr/fr/
https://www.tourisme-vienne.com/preparons/on-fait-quoi/top-15-incontournables/