Attractions and Places To See around Argentonnay - Top 19

The region is rich in history. You can visit the remnants of Château de l'Argenton, dating back to around the year 1000, which includes two chapels and a grand mural painting. Another significant medieval site is Château de Sanzay, featuring a granite entrance, Gothic chapel door, and a dungeon tower, surrounded by biodiverse moats. Don't miss the 13th-century Pont des Chouans on the Thouet, a medieval bridge fortified in the 15th century, offering views of the Thouet river and the Château de Thouars.

Absolutely. The Pommiers Waterfall is a remarkable natural feature, rare for the region, set in an incredibly preserved green environment. You can also explore Lac d'Hautibus, an artificial lake encircled by woods and hills, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and water activities. The Vallée de l'Argenton is a designated Natura 2000 site, home to diverse flora and fauna, including otters and beavers.

The area around Argentonnay offers various outdoor activities. For running enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Lake Hautibus – Clos de l'oncle Georges loop' or 'Lac d'Hautibus – Tour loop'. Mountain biking options include the 'Voultegon bridge loop' and 'Virgin Mary of Conception – Clos de l'oncle Georges loop'. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Saint-Médard Church of Thouars – Pont des Chouans on the Thouet loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the dedicated guides for running, MTB, and road cycling around Argentonnay.

Yes, families can enjoy several spots. Lac d'Hautibus is perfect for a day out with walking/cycling trails, picnic areas, and pedal boats or canoes. The circuit around the lake is about 4.5 km, suitable for a pleasant family walk. The Clos de l'Oncle Georges, a natural site with exceptional flora and fauna, also features artistic creations that can engage younger visitors.

The region features several notable religious edifices. The Saint-Médard Church of Thouars is a must-see, characterized by its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, three naves, and a remarkable main portal. Other significant churches include Eglise Saint-Gilles, which underwent extensive restoration in the 19th century, and Eglise Notre Dame du Breuil sous Argenton.

For picturesque views, the Pont des Chouans on the Thouet offers superb vistas of the Thouet river and the Château de Thouars. The hillsides surrounding the Vallée de l'Argenton also provide scenic perspectives of the diverse natural landscape, including dry grasslands, rocky areas, and moorlands.

The Clos de l'Oncle Georges is a unique natural site located in the heart of the Argenton Valley. Named after its former owner, Georges Jouffrault, a nature enthusiast, it boasts exceptional flora and fauna, including remarkable trees, and integrates artistic creations within its natural setting. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil experience.

Yes, the area is excellent for walking. The circuit around Lac d'Hautibus is a popular 4.5 km trail. The Vallée de l'Argenton, a Natura 2000 site, offers extensive opportunities for exploring diverse natural habitats. Additionally, the Site de la Passerelle d'Auzay, a restored natural area, provides pleasant walks while preserving local fauna and flora. For more structured routes, check the running trails guide, which includes walking-friendly options.

The Château de l'Argenton is a historic castle dating back to around the year 1000. It was once the residence of Philippe de Commynes, a key advisor to King Louis XI. Although largely in ruins today, visitors can still see remnants of its ramparts, towers, and two chapels, including the 11th-century Chapel Saint-Georges, which houses the largest mural painting depicting Christ and the four evangelists in Poitou-Charentes.

Beyond the well-known Pont des Chouans on the Thouet, which is a medieval fortified bridge, you can also find the 13th-century Pont Cadoré, providing historical access to the town. The Pont d'Hautibus is another significant structure, recognized as the oldest medieval bridge in the area with Romanesque arches.

The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer offers warm weather suitable for lake activities at Lac d'Hautibus. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for walks and hikes. While specific weather patterns vary, these seasons generally offer comfortable conditions for exploring the natural and historical sites.

Thouars is a charming French town known for its beautiful old houses and streets, a wonderful chateau, and a lovely river. It hosts a renowned market on Friday mornings and serves as an excellent base for exploring the Loire Valley, Limousin, Poitou Maritime region, and the Vendee, offering a glimpse into authentic French life.