1. Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers, the most romantic castle ruins in the world
60 minutes north of Poitiers , at the gateway to Val de Loire, an abandoned castle dating back to the 19th century, saved by over 27,000 owners literally sums up the incredible history of this mysterious place.
Through a global crowdfunding campaign kicked off in 2017, thousands of enthusiasts from 115 countries have helped start breathe new life into it. It goes without saying that it’s pretty impossible not to fall under the spell of this strange yet majestic castle, partially invaded by vegetation. Now, the site had been made safe and secure, its interior and amazing décors are open for visits. A definite must-see!
Find out more about the Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers, in Trois-Moutiers, close to Center Parcs
Are you a History lover? then head off to Poitiers and follow Eleanor of Aquitaine’s footsteps
2. Center Parcs Domaine du Bois aux Daims, to spend some time together
Center Parcs is the perfect destination, all year round, for a break in an unspoilt setting. Near Loudun, just 60 minutes north of Poitiers Futuroscope, Domaine du Bois aux Daims invites you to the very heart of the forest for holidays in a cottage or in a cabin perched in the treetops. If you prefer, you may also just spend a day there. On the agenda: fun-time with animals (deer, storks, ponies, and more), activities galore for all the family (cycling, bowling, pedal-boating, etc.). Not to mention the tropical atmosphere in “Aqua Mundo” with its water at 29°C all year round. Lagoons, waterslides and wave pools, etc. the kids are going to love it! And, for relaxing interludes, head over to the “Deep Nature” spa.
Center Parcs Bois aux Daims ©Interaview - Eric Bergoend
Find out more about Center Parcs Domaine du Bois aux Daims, in Trois Moutiers, at the gateway to Val de Loire
Other accommodation ideas around Futuroscope? click here
3. Terre de Dragons (Planète Crocodiles), ready for adventure?
45 minutes south-east of Poitiers Futuroscope, in Civaux, Terre de Dragons (formerly called Planète Crocodile) whisks you off into a luxuriant tropical jungle to discover extraordinary animals. Crocodiles, alligators, giant turtles, iguanas and chameleons will no longer hold any secrets for you after this incredible visit. Must-sees: carer-animal together time and feeding time. An absolute must for the more daring among you is the treetop adventure trail with its giant suspended net. Imagine hovering 10 m above the crocodiles. Thrills guaranteed!
Find out more about Terre de Dragons, in Civaux
Do you love animals? discover other wildlife parks in the region
4. Roc d’Enfer (Rock of Hell), one of the most exquisite natural sites
The Roc d’Enfer (Rock of Hell), 60 minutes south of Poitiers Futuroscope, is a site of legendary canyons which the Gartempe River carved over the centuries. Here, the valley weaves its way through wild, unspoilt landscapes. Perfect for a kayak or rafting trip. Right beside the Roc d’Enfer (Rock of Hell), Lathus Outdoor Recreational Centre proposes a wide variety of sports and nature activities for everyone. Take your pick between: treetop adventures, climbing, mountain-biking, horse-riding, educational farm, etc. You can even go potholing or discover circus arts.
Find out more about the Roc d’Enfer (Rock of Hell), in Lathus, halfway between Poitiers and Limoges
Do you enjoy adventure in the great outdoors? Then Tèrra Aventura’s nature quests are perfect for you!
Follow us, the editors of Nouvelle-Aquitaine-Tourisme.com as we show you around… our home.
From the peaks of the Pyrenees to the Marais Poitevin canals via the wharfs of Bordeaux, the beaches of the Atlantic to the shores of Lake Vassivière near Limoges, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is full of fascinating, entertaining stories that will amuse one and all.