For a holiday with family or friends, the Vendée is always, oh yes always a good idea. For a change from the seaside resorts that fill up during the summer, how about a stay inland, to discover what makes this splendid department so rich? Head for Pouzauges!
Between the wooded hills and the foothills of the Vendée, Pouzauges, a small town of character, nicknamed the Queen of the High Bocage, is one of those pearls whose heritage the Vendée has ardently preserved. Perched at an altitude of 300 metres, this ancient fortress from the Middle Ages, situated about fifty kilometres from La Roche-sur-Yon, is above all known for the splendour of its buildings, which will delight lovers of beautiful stones. Built during the 11th century, the Saint-Jacques church is located in the upper part of the village: built in a half-Romanesque, half-Gothic style, this three-vessel building topped by a square bell tower is worth a visit for the beauty of its stained-glass windows which tell the story of the Vendée war. Not far from there, it is the Château de Pouzauges that catches our attention: built on one of the highest hills in the town, at an altitude of 240 metres, this 12th century castle is worth a visit in the heart of its park, perfect for a pastoral stroll. The building itself is worth a visit for the beauty of its architecture in the Niort style, and its 26-metre-high keep, which gives the visitor a glimpse of its latrines and loopholes. Open to the public, it is a must for anyone visiting Pouzauges, to discover the richness of its history and heritage! The little extra: its incredible view of the whole town not to be missed! A few steps away, the church Notre-Dame du Vieux Pouzauges and its Romanesque style, or the twin mills of Terrier Marteau (18th and 19th centuries) are to be added to your list of visits. The latter, 8 meters high, were once used to make wheat flour. One of them has been renovated in order to restart flour production and allow visitors to discover the art of bread making, and children will also be able to marvel at the park that surrounds the mills, a park where chickens, geese, peacocks and donkeys provide the entertainment.
Pouzauges can be visited by bike or on foot, but there are also many walking and cycling routes to enable you to wander through the countryside at your own pace. What to see? The ruins of the Bois Roland abbey, the Aumônerie abbey, the 19th century Château de la Cacaudière, or the Puy Pain manor house built in the 15th century, not forgetting the Marchais dolmen. Our advice? Take the small steep alleys of the village, and the "Fil Vert" itinerary which runs through the town to discover its most beautiful treasures, and which will tirelessly lead you towards the lake of Hope, ideal for a swimming break, a sunbathing session on its beach, an introduction to paddle or for a fishing trip with family or friends. During the summer, Pouzauges comes alive and offers visitors a whole range of activities: guided tours of the medieval town, night-time escapades, concerts, storytelling aperitifs and other markets will plunge you into the heart of the warm atmosphere of the Vendée!