The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Vienne

He's a real eye-catcher!

Château de Dissay, located in Vienne, is a magnificent example of medieval and Renaissance architecture in France. Built in the 15th century, this castle is surrounded by a moat and formal gardens, providing an enchanting setting for a stroll. It is distinguished by its elegant round towers, slate roofs, and its façade decorated with sculpted details, which tell the rich history of this place. When visiting Château de Dissay, you can explore its sumptuous interiors, where history and refinement meet. The rooms are decorated with period furniture, tapestries, and works of art, giving a glimpse into the aristocratic life of yesteryear. The castle chapel, with its stained glass windows and frescoes, is a gem not to be missed. The castle's meticulously maintained gardens are another highlight of the visit. They invite you to stroll, with their flower-lined paths, geometric flowerbeds, and peaceful ponds. It is an ideal place to relax, admire the beauty of the landscape, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that reigns here. Walking around the Château de Dissay is like taking a trip back in time, while enjoying the serenity and splendor of a preserved historical setting.

The Dunes panorama in Poitiers offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings, constituting a place of contemplation and serenity. Located on a hill to the west of the city, this site is dominated by a statue of the Virgin Mary, which has watched over Poitiers since 1945. Erected in gratitude for the protection granted to the city during the Second World War, this statue has become a local symbol of peace and hope. From the Dunes, one can admire a vast panorama of the city's rooftops, with its bell towers, spires, and historic monuments that stand out on the horizon. The Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Notre-Dame-la-Grande church, and the Palais de Justice are all landmarks visible from this promontory. The contrast between the urban spaces and the surrounding nature, with forests and fields stretching as far as the eye can see, offers a striking perspective. The Dunes site is also a popular place for walking, with paths that wind through the green spaces, inviting relaxation and reflection. The presence of the statue of the Virgin adds a spiritual dimension to this place, making it a privileged place for meditation and contemplation.

The Saint-Pierre Cathedral in Poitiers, a major building of Angevin Gothic architecture, is a jewel that deserves to be visited for several reasons. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it stands out for its imposing harmonious façade, adorned with two massive towers that dominate the urban landscape. Upon entering its doors, one discovers an interior that is impressive in its dimensions, with a bright and slender nave, supported by powerful pillars. One of the main reasons to visit this cathedral is the beauty of its stained glass windows, among the oldest and most remarkable in France. The large central stained glass window of the choir, dating from the 12th century, is a masterpiece of medieval art, depicting scenes from the life of Christ with a wealth of detail and colours that captivate the eye. The cathedral also houses historic organs, a musical treasure that makes the building resonate during concerts and religious services. Finally, Saint-Pierre de Poitiers is a place full of history, having seen many important events in the region. A visit is a dive into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Poitiers, offering a moment of meditation and admiration before the splendor of Gothic art.

It can be discovered from several hiking trails starting from Aslonnes. Worth the detour. Remains mysterious, a few signs explain its original function.

Typical Poitou hut made of flat dry stone. Worth the detour with the dolmen a few hundred meters away.

difficult to approach the cabin invaded by weeds

The cathedral in Poitiers was dedicated to Saint Peter / "Saint-PIERRE". Simon, nicknamed Peter (the word means "rock"), was a fisherman on Lake Genesareth when he - together with his brother Andrew - was called by Jesus Christ to be a "fisher of men". According to Catholic understanding, he is the highest apostle, and the two thousand year long line of popes - currently Francis - are his successors. In statues and paintings, Peter is almost always depicted with two keys in his hand; this attribute refers to the Bible verse in Matthew: "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (Chapter 16, Verse 19). Saint-Pierre is also known together with Saint-Paul as the "prince of the apostles"; their common feast day in the calendar of saints is June 29th.