Things to See and Do

So much to see and do in our lovely area of France

We are within an easy drive of two of the top theme park destinations in France , Futuroscope at Poitiers,which has a large number of interactive games, rides and attractions, and Puy du Fou which has a 'Hollywood style' outdoor gladiator and viking shows, falconry exhibitions and a spectacular outdoor 'sound & light' show in the evening.

The Marais Poitevin (Venise Verte),is a fascinating area of meadows and marshlands, criss-crossed by canals and rivers where you can hire a boat and spend the day meandering through the waterways. Coulon is an excellent starting point, and from here you can also take a ride on the Pibalou miniature train. At the seaward edge of the Marais, there are opportunities to go bird watching and there are beautiful beaches at the seaside resorts of Les Sables-d'Olonne and La Tranche.

The picturesque , lively port of La Rochelle makes a superb day out (1.5hrs).Visit the ancient Towers protecting the old harbour entrance or enjoy people watching from the many harbour side restaurants and bars. Meander through its old quarter and shopping arcades, or pop into the Aquarium - a firm favourite for all ages.

There are great and many opportunities for cycling - we have some routes around our country lanes and flat routes on the Marais Poitevin and Ile de Re.

Locally, there are several 'plans d'eau' which have a large lake for swimming, usually with a man-made beach and waterslide and many activities such as pedalos, water sports, crazy golf - something for all the family. For the fishermen/women, the fantastic Pescalis, Europe's premier fishing complex is just 10 minutes drive away. It has more than 250 acres of lakes with carp up to 25 kilos!

Only 10 mins away is the Parc Aventure, tree-top fun for all ages and very popular with our visitors, and an excellent Karting track.

There are many walks in the area - a number to take from Les Glycines Gites, with explanatory maps. Just north of l'Absie is the Rocher Branlant - the 'rocking rock'-a huge balanced boulder which moves very slightly when pushed!

Of course, there is always shopping..... • Local Markets in the area, of which, there are many for each day of the week, and a fantastically rich way to experience French life and Food • And 'Vide-Greniers-literally loft emptying- the Car boots of France

The lovely medieval town of Parthenay,30 mins away, has many half-timbered houses, museums and historic Churches. A ramble through its streets is a must. Niort , 40 mins, has one of the oldest complete Donjons (Keeps) in France, a lively Market, great value Restaurants and many independent, individual shops. Poitiers also has a medieval centre and a large number of architecturally interesting and important churches, including the ancient Saint-Hilaire-le-Grand, which was completed in 1049.

In the forest of Mervant, Vouvant claims is one of the prettiest villages in France. The Melusine Tower provides a panoramic view over the village and  - it also has a fascinating story attached - look out for the Fairy Melusine with her serpent tail.

L'Absie Abbey is associated with Eleanor of Aquitaine, the wife of Henry ll , and there is a lovely park nearby with playground and Ducks. At Secondigny there a superb lake with fishing, restaurant and activities, and a beautifully restored Church of some note. At St Maixent-L'Ecole there is a reconstructed Gothic abbey church .On a grander scale - the Chateau at Coulonges sur l'Autize, the Chateau et Jardin Medieval de la Guyonniere  and ,to the North,  the renaissance Chateau d'Oiron and the magnificent Chateau at Saumur.

Our top three

Our own comprehensive tourism maps , supported by leaflets, list over 40 places to visit within 25 minutes of Les Glycines Gites and over 60 within a 1.5 hour radius. Below are links to 3 of the most popular attractions amongst Guests.