The best road cycling routes around La Forêt-Sur-Sèvre

Sturdy shoes and rain gear are recommended. Enjoy this walk.

The "Filles de Bressuire," monumental sculptural works by Franck Ayroles, adorn the Bressuire train station square. Installed in 2021, they welcome travelers as an artistic nod to the city.

It is from Place de la Solidarité, near the village hall, and in the light of a sunny afternoon, that visitors can best admire Courlay's church, firmly anchored on a hilltop, built in the middle of the village. It is squat and austere, like a fortress, a half-Gothic, half-Romanesque building whose square bell tower dominates the surrounding houses. Crossing the square, created on the site of the former cemetery relocated in 1900 and now adorned with a beautiful fountain where water cascades over granite chirons, note: the square bell tower with two small bays on each side (11th and 12th centuries); to the east, the large wall of the church's apse; on the north facade, a small rectangular tower resting on the bell tower and housing the stone staircase providing access to the bells; on the south facade, the turret topped with a slate pinnacle, the modillions of the cornice, a small door at the top of a few steps, and the Romanesque portal or main gate.

The church was built in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. It was embellished in the 19th century in a flamboyant Gothic style and equipped with rich furnishings and stained glass windows.

The Boismé water body is an easy-to-access and well-equipped body of water, offering an ideal site for fishing and family walks. You can enjoy the rich diversity of fish, such as carp, pike and zander, as well as the beautiful views of the water and the surrounding countryside. The hike around the lake is approximately 4 km and is suitable for all fitness levels. There is also a picnic area, playground and snack bar near the lake. The Boismé lake is an ideal place to enjoy nature and have fun.

The Château de Saint Mesmin is a medieval fortress built in the 14th century during the Hundred Years' War. It has been restored and animated by various activities and events that recreate life in the Middle Ages. You can explore the castle and its surroundings, enjoy the panoramic view from the 28 meter high keep and take part in workshops, games and shows that will make you feel like a knight or a princess. The castle is open from April to November. The Château de Saint Mesmin is a destination of choice for hikers who wish to discover a rich and exciting heritage in a beautiful natural setting.

Bressuire Castle is a medieval ruin dating from the 10th century and having belonged to the Beaumont family. You can discover the 700 meter long enclosure and its 38 towers, admire the romantic remains of the 15th century dwelling and enjoy the view of the chapel and the old slaughterhouse from the esplanade. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions, sculpture symposia and treasure hunts in summer.

The ruins of this 11th century castle are worth visiting. Located on the heights of the village of Pouzanges, the castle offers a spectacular view.