Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Porchaire - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Porchaire include a variety of historical sites and religious buildings. This region in France offers a landscape characterized by its architectural heritage and cultural points of interest. Visitors can explore structures dating back centuries, providing insights into local history and craftsmanship. The area around Saint-Porchaire is suitable for those interested in historical exploration and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Porchaire
- The most popular attractions is Crazannes Castle, a castle that was built in the 14th century and is listed as a Historic Monument. It is known for inspiring the tale of Puss in Boots and features a park of eight hectares.
- Another must-see spot is Saint-Savinien Church and Statues of the Apostles, a religious building with a Romanesque style dating from the 12th and 13th centuries. Visitors can expect to see modern statues of the 12 apostles by a local sculptor, Cédric Hénnion, in front of the church.
- Visitors also love Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes, a religious building constructed in 1874. What makes it special is its history, as it replaced the castle's chapel as the parish church, and it features an ex-voto vessel from 1875.
- Saint-Porchaire is known for its historical sites and religious buildings. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including castles and churches with significant architectural details.
- The attractions around Saint-Porchaire are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and over 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Crazannes Castle
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Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes
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Two old washhouses are located in the town of Crazannes: one near the village, and the other in the hamlet of Cléré.
In the heart of the village, the Pierreux house in typical Charentais style opens its doors to you. It highlights the life of these hardworking men who shaped the freestone quarries. Visitable all summer.
The Crazannes quarries are located a few kilometers from Crazannes. This nature center created in 1997 provides a free museum space on the motorway service area presenting the stone quarries and a protected area of the Crazannes quarries for paid guided tours.
The quarries are gradually covered with a carpet of greenery. Tall trees grow above dark, deep gorges. This shade keeps the temperature constant and the humidity high. The resurgence of the water table waters lush vegetation. The ivy runs everywhere, on the cliffs as on the trees, and goes down to the ground. It is accompanied by the vine-white clematis, which climbs to attack the highest branches in order to capture a little light. But the quarries are also covered with a carpet of centipede ferns that are usually found at the bottom of the deepest pits. In the drier areas, you can come across orchids like the "hanging man" or the Ophrys bee.
Hidden by the mysteries of Crazannes, animals roam the quarries, from mammals (badgers, deer, genets, foxes...) to batrachians (agile frogs, salamanders...), including nocturnal and diurnal birds (owls owls, short-toed eagle, etc.).
Fort Boyard and Fort Liédot are among the many structures built with Crazannes stone. The stone was exported and constitutes one of the materials used for the construction or the ornament of emblematic monuments such as the cathedral of Cologne or the White House.
The castles of Crazannes and Panloy are nearby.
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Saint-Savinien Church and Statues of the Apostles
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Saint Sulpice Church, Saint-Sulpice-d'Arnoult
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À la croisée du transept, sur le mur sud, un contrefort intérieur fut édifié au 13e siècle afin de renforcer le clocher. Celui-ci est bâti sur l'ancien transept, porté sur 4 arcades, 1 ogivale et 3 en plein cintre, voûté d'une coupole à pans. Il passe d'une base quadrangulaire à une structure octogonale, percé à l'origine de 8 ouvertures gothiques dont 3 ont été bouchées par après. La cage des cloches est une construction octogone, avec piles de colonnettes jumelées, base et chapiteaux sculptés, arcades géminées, corniches pourtournées sur des colonnettes d'angle. Au 17e siècle, des modifications ont été apportées à la structure, notamment par la reconstruction de l'abside et d'une partie du croisillon nord, lequel est prolongé d'une absidiole reprise au 17e siècle, tandis que le croisillon sud fut totalement remanié au 18e siècle (arcades à droite du chœur mutilées au 13e siècle pour y créer une ouverture communiquant avec un bas-côté). Cela a entrainé la suppression de l'absidiole sud dont l'ouverture a été conservée. Entièrement voûté d'ogives, il se prolonge d'une chapelle de 2 travées se terminant par un mur percé d'une fenêtre à remplage style gothique. Sous le croisillon se trouvent les restes d'une crypte semi-enterrée du 12e siècle. Une trappe ouvre sur ce qu'il en reste, mais toute sa partie supérieure a été arasée. Enfin, le chœur, qui forme une travée, se prolonge par une abside éclairée de 2 baies ogivales. À l'entrée du chœur se trouvent des chapiteaux du 12e siècle. Ils présentent des vestiges de sculptures romanes de facture maladroite dont deux rappellent la composition végétale développée dans la crypte de Saint-Eutrope à Saintes. Juxtaposée au chœur, une chapelle gothique se découvre.
L'édifice actuel forme un plan en croix latine, comportant une nef de 4 travées, voûtée en berceau et éclairée par des ouvertures : 4 baies romanes et 2 gothiques du 17e siècle. Une curieuse disposition architecturale, aujourd'hui à peine compréhensible est à noter : la présence d'une crypte semi-enterrée dont l'ancienne voûte s'élevait au-dessus du niveau du sol actuel dans le bras sud du transept. Une trappe ouvre encore sur ce qu'il en reste, mais sa partie supérieure a été arrasée. Une telle crypte est encore visible à Saint-André-de-Lidon.
Ouverte sur demande, s’adresser à la Mairie.
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Saint-Nazaire Church
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Founded in the 2nd half of the 12th century, the current church was built in 2 stages: first the transept, surmounted by a bell tower, and then the choir. Then, towards the end of the 2nd ½ of the 12th century, the nave was barrel-vaulted and the western facade built.
The primitive chevet was ½ circular. It was rebuilt in the 17th century, a flat Gothic wall, pierced by an ogival window, replacing the original apse.
From the entrance, there is a massive wall pierced by a high and narrow door which, by 5 steps, reaches the nave. This narthex is lit by 2 semicircular windows. It is covered at great height with a starry ribbed vault.
The nave comprises six bays, the first 3 vaulted in warhead with sculpted keys; the following 3, less high, in a broken cradle.
In the 2nd half of the 15th century, following the Hundred Years War, a large part of the building was taken over. The left wall has been replaced by a series of 5 large smooth columns, without capitals
Lit by 5 pointed arch windows, this 2nd nave also has its own entrance door to the west and on a landing preceded by several steps.
Defensive elements were added to the south wall of the nave (walkway, crenellations, loopholes...), and a new bell tower was built above the 1st bay of the nave.
This work was completed in the 17th century, for the completion of the vaults of the 1st spans of the nave, and for that of the bell tower, covered with a hull roof.
Inside, the south wall of the nave is still pierced with semicircular bays framed by small columns with carved capitals.
As for the western facade, it presents the usual structure of the Romanesque facades of the region. Made up of 3 arcades on each of the 2 levels, like a Roman triumphal arch.
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Tips from the Community
Small town with a special charm along the Charente.
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The Saint-Savinien church is a Romanesque style building built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The current sanctuary succeeds an ancient priory, cited in a charter of 1039, of which no vestige remains. The adjoining square is pleasantly decorated with statutes representing the apostles.
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Crazannes Castle is a castle located in the commune of Crazannes in the Charente-Maritime department of France. It is known for its medieval watchtower, which was built in the 12th century. Crazannes Castle was built in the 12th century and has been owned by several noble families over the centuries. It has been expanded and modified over time, and its architecture is a mix of medieval, Renaissance and classical styles. Crazannes Castle is also home to underground caves dug into the limestone rock, which have been used as wine cellars and to store food supplies over the centuries. Visitors can explore the caves and learn about their history through guided tours. Crazannes Castle is open to the public during the summer season and offers guided tours, contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. It is also possible to rent rooms for private events such as weddings or receptions.
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Listed as a Historic Monument, the Château de Crazannes was built in the 14th century to replace an old feudal castle. Its nickname of “Château du Chat Botté” dates back to the 17th century, when it was the property of Jules Gouffier, Count of Caravaz. An eminent character who inspired Charles Perrault to create the Marquis de Carabas, Master of Puss in Boots in his famous tale. A park with century-old trees surrounds the castle and runs along the Charente. It has been included in the pre-inventory of remarkable gardens. The castle is open to visitors all year round for an entrance fee.
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Built in the 14th century, the Château de Crazannes is listed as a Historic Monument. It belonged to the Comte de Caravaz, Jules Gouffier, who inspired Perrault for the creation of the master of Puss in Boots, the Marquis de Carabas. A rereading of the tale is essential before visiting the castle and its magnificent garden!
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The Château de Crazannes is one of the oldest castles in Charente-Maritime. It was built in the 14th century on the site of an 11th century medieval fortress. One of the former owners of the castle was in fact the master of "Puss in Boots", the classic tale by Charles Perrault.
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A beautiful castle from the outside. Visitation is possible. Also an overnight stay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Saint-Porchaire?
The region is rich in history. A prominent historical site is Crazannes Castle, a 14th-century fortress listed as a Historic Monument, known for inspiring the tale of Puss in Boots. You can also explore the historical context of churches like Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes, which replaced the castle's chapel in 1874.
Are there any notable religious buildings to see in the area?
Yes, several religious buildings offer architectural and historical interest. The Saint-Savinien Church and Statues of the Apostles is a Romanesque-style building from the 12th and 13th centuries, featuring modern statues by local sculptor Cédric Hénnion. Another is the Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes, built in 1874, which houses an ex-voto vessel from 1875. Additionally, the Saint Sulpice Church, Saint-Sulpice-d'Arnoult, dating back to the 12th century, showcases a complex blend of architectural styles.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Saint-Porchaire?
Absolutely. Crazannes Castle is considered family-friendly, offering a fascinating history, including its connection to the Puss in Boots tale, and an eight-hectare park to explore. Many of the churches, such as Saint-Savinien Church and Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes, are also suitable for family visits, providing cultural insights in accessible settings.
What outdoor activities are available near Saint-Porchaire's attractions?
The area around Saint-Porchaire is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes for touring bicycles, mountain bikes, and road bikes. For example, there are easy touring bicycle routes like the 'Superb castle – Crazannes Castle loop from Saint-Porchaire' (22.8 km) or moderate MTB trails such as the 'Forest Stream – Crazannes Castle loop from Rulon' (41.9 km). For more options, explore the dedicated guides for Cycling around Saint-Porchaire, MTB Trails around Saint-Porchaire, and Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Porchaire.
Are there cycling routes near the attractions?
Yes, several cycling routes pass by or near the attractions. For instance, you can find an easy touring bicycle route called 'Superb castle – Crazannes Castle loop from Saint-Porchaire' which is 22.8 km long. There are also road cycling routes like the 'Crazannes Castle – Saint Saturnin of Séchaud loop from Saint-Porchaire' (29.1 km, easy). For a comprehensive list, check the Cycling around Saint-Porchaire guide.
Where can I find scenic views around Saint-Porchaire?
The forecourt of the Saint-Savinien Church and Statues of the Apostles offers a magnificent panorama. Additionally, the area around Crazannes Castle, with its eight-hectare park, provides beautiful landscapes and views of the historic architecture.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Porchaire's attractions?
The region's attractions, primarily historical sites and religious buildings, can be enjoyed year-round. However, for comfortable exploration of outdoor areas like the park at Crazannes Castle and for cycling, the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months offer pleasant weather. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer and busier.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known places worth exploring?
While not a hidden gem in the traditional sense, the Crazannes quarries near Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes offer a unique experience. These former stone quarries, which provided stone for structures like Fort Boyard and even the White House, are now a protected natural area with lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. They offer guided tours and a free museum space.
Are there dog-friendly places to visit near Saint-Porchaire?
Many outdoor areas and parks are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The extensive park surrounding Crazannes Castle is a good option for a walk with your dog. Always check specific venue policies before visiting, especially for indoor attractions.
Is public transport available to reach attractions around Saint-Porchaire?
Public transport options directly to all individual attractions in this rural area may be limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car or bicycle to fully explore the attractions around Saint-Porchaire. Some villages might have local bus services, but schedules can be infrequent. Always check local transport websites for the most current information.
Where can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
While specific cafes are not listed for each highlight, you will typically find local eateries and cafes in the nearby villages and towns, such as Saint-Porchaire itself, Crazannes, or Saint-Savinien. These establishments often offer traditional French cuisine and refreshments. It's advisable to check local listings or ask residents for recommendations upon arrival.
What is the significance of the stone from Crazannes?
The stone from the Crazannes quarries, located near Sainte-Madeleine Church of Crazannes, is historically significant. This freestone was widely exported and used in the construction of many iconic monuments, including Fort Boyard, Fort Liédot, parts of Cologne Cathedral, and even the White House. The quarries themselves are now a protected natural area.
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