Hiking in Poitou-Charentes

Hiking: possibly the number 1 activity during a vacation. Not surprisingly, because a hike provides you with all the time you need to fully take in your surroundings. Besides, hiking is very good for your health! Hiking in France is extra special. The stunning scenery here seems straight out of a painting. Especially the Poitou-Charentes region with its ancient castles, vast vineyards, and picturesque villages!  From Les Forges Villas, our small-scale villa park in Les Forges, you can discover all the beauty this region has to offer. And to save you the search, we've already listed the most beautiful hiking trails in Poitou-Charentes for you.

The first hiking trail in France we'd like to highlight is one in Parthenay. An authentic town situated on a high rock surrounded by the river Thouet. In this pleasant medieval town, it's as if time has stood still. Discover Parthenay by following this route of about 5 km. During your walk, you will admire the touristic center and the quiet river banks at the same time. A unique combination! The route starts and ends at the Office du tourisme.

Also along the river Thouet, but this time in the town of Thouars, you will find this route of about 5 km. Along the way, you will encounter the main attractions: Château des Ducs de La Trémoille, Tour du Prince de Galles and the Église Saint-Médard de Thouars. This hiking trail in France starts and ends at the Office du tourisme. The difficulty level of this route isn't high. Perfect for a walk with your children!

Marais Poitevin is also called La Venise Verte, or The Green Venice, because of its many canals. This idyllic natural park is a popular place for hiking in Poitou-Charentes. Put on your hiking boots and stroll along the marsh villages and canals. You can even hike with a donkey here! How cool is that? On top of this, there are several places where you can rent a boat to travel along the canals.

When thinking of Cognac, the first thing that comes to mind is the world-famous drink of cognac. It's to that, of course, that this city owes its fame. Still, Cognac is about more than this drink. You will find out during this route of about 5 km. Some gems in this city, among other things, that you will discover during this walking tour in France? The Église Saint Léger, Porte Saint-Jacques, and Rue Artistide Briand. A pleasant city tour that we definitely recommend!

Slightly more challenging is this route with a length of about 8.5 km. During this city tour of Saintes, you will discover beautiful buildings from various eras. Admire the extraordinary structures of the Romans, including the amphitheater and the thermal baths, and discover the basilica, cathedral, and abbey dating from the medieval period. This hiking trail near Les Forges begins and ends at the train station.

Spending the night at Les Forges Villas

Plenty of hiking routes in Poitou-Charentes! Of course, you can also set out on your own and discover all that the French countryside has to offer. One thing is certain: our small-scale villa park in Les Forges offers you the perfect base after a long hike. Put up your feet, enjoy a wine and baguette, and feel the sun on your face. You will experience the "chill" French atmosphere optimally at our luxurious and spacious villas. Our villas can accommodate up to 10 persons and offer private parking, a large yard, a patio and a barbecue. An active hike followed by some relaxation: the perfect combination to make your vacation a success. Joie de vivre!