Explore Fontenay-le-comte from FONTARABIE

From Coulonges-sur-l'Autize, park on the castle square. A notice board will show you the starting point. Then follow the wooden markers with a bicycle and brown directional arrows. If there are no signs, continue on your way. Discover the Autize valley and let yourself be surprised by the poetry of the landscapes and the charm of the buildings in this area.

The small town of Coulonges-sur-L'Autize has undergone three major phases of development during its history. In the Middle Ages, the settlement gathered around the church of Saint-Etienne. The medieval nucleus, now a little out of place, is characterized by winding streets where a few houses show signs of age. A second period of urbanization began in the 16th century with the construction of a vast castle, built around a large quadrangular square. Finally, the 19th century ushered in a new period of prosperity and growth. This economic boom, linked to the exploitation of lime kilns, resulted in the construction of major roads, the installation of the railway, the building of market halls and a wealthy housing.

Hello, it's me, Galipote, the little ghost and the memory of Ardin, I invite you to follow my steps to discover the village of Ardin and some of its most beautiful treasures !

Wild fauna and flora are part of our local heritage. Called "ordinary biodiversity", these species are often ignored or poorly known by the inhabitants, young and old, who are not familiar with them. This discovery trail is punctuated by panels designed by the Fédération Départementale des Chasseurs and set up in partnership with the commune. Each panel presents an animal or plant species of the Deux-Sèvres. For the plants: flowers, fruits and leaves, but also the use made of them by Man or animals are presented. These "plant kingdom" panels are positioned near the plants they describe. The panels of the "animal kingdom" present the description of the animal, its habits, its diet and its reproduction, as well as the footprints and the signs of presence, which allow to detect their passage.

This course is part of the Niort - Marais Poitevin Trail Station. A course which will make you visit by running the network of the port with its channels, rivers, conches, ditches. These installations allow to welcome and preserve a rich flora and fauna in connection with the life of the Marais. Open your eyes when you run and let yourself be surprised by the natural encounters along the way. Work on your mind, concentrate on your feeling while running in this soothing environment. -> Handisport course -> Course currently not marked (but can be done with the mobile application On Piste)

This course is part of the Niort - Marais Poitevin Trail Station. This course will lead you in a corner of the marsh where the frequentation is less strong than on other places. You have the possibility of discovering two villages with a natural zone arranged: the Ornithological Park. Do not hesitate to stop and refuel in the village of Saint-Hilaire-La-Palud which represents well the preserved and quiet rural France. Beware of the endurance course where the mind will have to be pumped up to avoid the changes in the terrain! -> Course currently unmarked (but achievable with the mobile application On Piste)

This short stroll will take you to the heart of the village of Arçais. Typical of the Marais Poitevin, it has many treasures. Enjoy this walk at your own pace, guided by the audio commentary or simply strolling through the narrow streets. Nice discovery and don't forget that you are not alone on the paths you are going to take. We invite you to respect the environment and the inhabitants and not to leave any trace of your passage. This route was created by the Tourist Office in partnership with the elected representatives of the commune of Arçais and in collaboration with the mediation service of the Regional Natural Park of the Marais Poitevin. Photo credits: PNR Marais Poitevin Scripting and texts : Lauriane Angibaud and Amandine Louveau, Niort Marais Poitevin Tourism Voice : Mathilde Cornuau, Niort Marais Poitevin Tourisme -> Unmarked itinerary

Discover the Marais sauvage by bike, an exceptional place rich in fauna and flora!

Departure: the church square. Distance: 23 km. Duration: 2h. Safety instructions - Wearing the helmet is strongly recommended. I roll on the right. I respect the rules of the road. I check the condition of my bike (brakes and lighting). I stay on marked trails. I respect the marsh, sensitive and classified site.

From the martin pêcheur pier on the road from Damvix to Arçais, in Saint-Hilaire-la-Palud, cover around 15 km of the Marais Poitevin Regional Nature Park and get to know the wild marshlands. You can also discover the landscape by boat (a flat boat), in the biefs, gullies and conches. The route takes in parts of PR loops. Please note that some sections are liable to flooding in wet weather. This route is proposed by the Comité Régional de Randonnée Pédestre. Departing from a station or TER bus stop, it allows you to join a walking or hiking itinerary, and to take an ecomobility trip!

Whether you're a couple, a family or a group of friends, don't hesitate to drop in at Fontarabie and enjoy its La Glycine restaurant. A cosy dining room, a shady terrace and generous, carefully prepared cuisine. The restaurant is open from 12pm to 2pm and from 7pm to 9.15pm. Closed on Sundays. Our chef offers a varied cuisine based on market produce and seasonal products.

- Tickets open on 1 JUNE mondays 21 and 28 july - 6.30pm mondays 4 and 11 august - 6.30pm Meeting point : In front of the Tourist Office, Place de Verdun 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Time : 6.30pm Duration: 1 hour Public: general public ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - Free admission for children under 3, who must be seated on the lap of an accompanying adult (no ticket required). - Visits accessible to people with reduced mobility (please contact 02 51 69 44 99 for bookings with a wheelchair). - Animals not admitted - For the welfare of the animals, the organiser reserves the right to cancel a visit in the event of injury or extreme weather conditions (heatwave, storm). - Online ticketing closes 1 hour before the start of the tour - On-site ticketing available subject to availability. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage through narrow streets and squares steeped in history, with unusual anecdotes, gourmet breaks based on local produce and the charm of yesteryear. Accessible and convivial, ideal for sharing a special moment with family or friends... this timeless ride awaits you! This walk is organised by Biodiversitrait in partnership with Fontenay-le-Comte, Ville d'Art et d'Histoire.

- EQUIPMENT - ► Living room and kitchen: connected television (youtube, ...), 2 armchairs, standing eating area with 2 high chairs, combined oven / microwave, sink, induction hob, fridge freezer, kitchen utensils, kettle, coffee machine, toaster. ► Sleeping area: BULTEX double bed, wardrobe, USB chargers. ► Bathroom: walk-in shower, hairdryer, heated towel rail, washing machine, toilet. Included: wifi, bed linen and towels. The accommodation is located on the 1st floor, without lift. Access is via a connected lock. Your code will be sent to you before your arrival. IMPORTANT: Check-in is independent and can be done from 5pm, check-out is until 11am on the day of departure (can be changed on request).

Step back in time and discover the origins of the town with its two historic districts: the lower town and the upper town! As you stroll through the streets with your guide, you'll admire Fontenay-le-Comte's remarkable architectural wealth and its special relationship with the River Vendée. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Meeting point: In front of the Tourist Office, Place de Verdun 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Duration : 1h30 RATES : Adults: €8.00 Reduced : 4.00 € (young people aged 8 to 18, students, disabled people and accompanying adults, large family card, jobseekers (proof of -1 month)) Free: children under 8 Booking essential at the Tourist Office

Loft on the 2nd floor of a renovated old house in the centre of town. The entrance is via the photographic studio on the ground floor. The owner's flat is on the 1st floor. Direct access to the loft by lift or staircase (roller shutter at the bottom of the staircase). Personalised decoration with a photographic theme. Living room/kitchen (decorative fireplace, hi-fi system) with 1 double bed (160cm) and 1 sofa bed (2 x 80cm mattresses), shower room/wc. Wifi internet access. Photo courses on request. Public car park 100 m away, free blue zone parking in the street. No smoking: End-of-stay cleaning: €50/stay; Sheet hire for 1 or 2 people: €10/bed/stay; Bathroom linen hire: €8/stay. Additional charges: Heating package: 8€/day (payable to the owner).

Tickets open on 1 June. FROM 7 JULY TO 27 AUGUST Mondays - 3.30pm & 5pm & 6.30pm (except 14 July) WEDNESDAYS - 3.30pm & 5pm & 6.30pm Meeting point : In front of the Tourist Office, Place de Verdun 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Times: 3.30pm-4.30pm / 5pm-6pm / 6.30pm-7.30pm Duration: 1 hour Public: all ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: - Free admission for children under 3, who must be seated on the lap of an accompanying adult (no ticket required). - The 6.30pm slots on 21/07 - 28/07 - 04/08 - 11/08 have been replaced by the gourmet version of the tour. - The tour is accessible to people with reduced mobility (please contact 02 51 69 44 99 for bookings with a wheelchair). - Animals not allowed - For the well-being of the animals, the organiser reserves the right to cancel a visit in the event of injury or extreme weather conditions (heatwave, storm). - Online ticketing closes 1 hour before the start of the tour - On-site ticketing available subject to availability. Let yourself be carried away by the gentle rhythm of hooves as you discover Fontenay-le-Comte. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage through narrow streets and squares steeped in history, filled with unusual anecdotes and the charm of yesteryear. Accessible and convivial, ideal for sharing a special moment with family or friends... this timeless ride awaits you! This walk is organised by Biodiversitrait in partnership with Fontenay-le-Comte, Ville d'Art et d'Histoire.

Several routes to suit all ages and abilities: - 7.5km Horanet - 15km Saga Mercedes - 24km Guillebeaud Batiment The Trail de la Renaissance also features races for children with Auto Ecole CEFR Poussins 1km, Benjamins 2km and Minimes 3km, and a commitment to social solidarity: €2 from each entry will be donated to the association Un soutien pour Diego. One race number = 1 tree offered and planted! Registration online only (closes on Friday 20/09 at 8pm, no on-site registration). Prices: €2, €10, €15 or €19 depending on the distance, with a €2 reduction for FFA licence holders. Eco-responsible race: no cups at the refreshment posts.

Tickets open on 1 June. THURSDAYS FROM 10 JULY TO 28 AUGUST - 11.00 am Meeting point: In front of the Tourist Office, Place de Verdun 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Times: 11am-12.30pm Duration: 1h30 Public: general public ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - Tour accessible to people with reduced mobility - Pets allowed - Online ticketing stops 1 hour before the start of the tour - On-site ticketing available subject to availability. Immerse yourself in an unusual tour where each stage is drawn before your very eyes! Iconic monuments, secret alleyways, surprising anecdotes... With each draw, a new destination and a challenge to take up.

SUNDAY 12 OCTOBER - 5.00 pm Meeting point : Eglise Saint-Jean, 1 rue Saint Jean 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes Open to all Limited places: booking essential at the Tourist Office Site accessible to people with reduced mobility ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Doors open 40 minutes before the start of the concert Online ticketing closes at 12.30pm the same day On-site ticketing subject to availability (payment in cash or by cheque) Animals not allowed Josef Rheinberger, a German composer from the second half of the 19th century, was famous in his time with the King of Bavaria for his immense repertoire, both secular and religious. The Cantabile choir is delighted to be taking part in the rediscovery of his music, appreciated for its melodic richness and delicacy. The choir will be performing the Mass in C op 169 and the Stabat Mater op 138. The large choir, directed by Svetlana Juchereau, will be accompanied by professional soloists and musicians.

FRIDAY 12 SEPTEMBER - 8.00 PM Meeting place : Eglise Saint-Jean, 1 Rue Saint-Jean 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte Duration: 1h30 Open to all, children aged 12 and over recommended Places are limited: booking essential at the Tourist Office Site accessible to people with reduced mobility ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Doors open 1 hour before the start of the concert Online ticketing closes 1 hour before the start of the concert On-site ticketing subject to availability (payment in cash or by cheque) Animals not allowed The BOCALISE quartet was created in 2014 and is made up of musicians from conservatoires in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. The 4 musicians in the ensemble also play in other groups, such as the La Rochelle wind band. In 2017, BOCALISE won a prize from the Académie de Saintonge for its activities and influence in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. Since then, BOCALISE has performed at the close of Jonzac's instants musicaux festival. BOCALISE's repertoire is highly varied, alternating between jazz, rock, variety and classical music. Many of the arrangements of the songs played are done by the musicians themselves. At each concert, the musicians give a fascinating presentation of their instruments.

Cross classified as a historical monument since 1889

Shady and quiet picnic area, located near the town of Coulonges-sur-l'Autize.

Have a stroll in the town center of Coulonges-Sur-l'Autize where you can discover the romanesque church, the 19th century market or the renaissance castle, part of the French National Heritage. You can, as well, discover the beautiful "bourgeoises" houses. Then, have a rest int the castle park. Take your time, relax and enjoy !

Located in the town center, the castle park is a peaceful place where you can chill. You can find a playground area for children, a picnic table and French books to read under hundred-years-old trees.

Let us tell you the unusual history of the castle of Coulonges-sur-L'Autize. Classified as a historical monument, this castle is one of the most beautiful architectural examples of the Renaissance in Poitou. Discover its vast and elegant rooms, as well as its chapel and cellars. Be charmed by its exceptional kitchens with sculpted vaults, jewel of the castle. Self-guided, audio-guided or guided tours. Complete your guided tour by visiting the Museum of Carpentry and Cooperage to discover these two forgotten local trades. Finally, don't hesitate to take a walk in the centre of Coulonges, which is astonishing for its eclectic architecture In July and August from Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 5.30 pm: guided tour at 10.30 am and 3 pm except on Tuesday morning. Out of season: guided tour only for groups on reservation. Annual closure from 01.11. to 31.03

Picnic tables set up in a shady park with a view of the Renaissance Château, a stone's throw from the community pool. Raise your eyes and you will discover many species of trees, some of which are recognized as "Remarkable Trees of the Deux-Sèvres". Perhaps you will see squirrels jumping from branch to branch...

This historical monument is part of a former priory of the Abbey of Nieul-sur-l'Autise. Built in the 12th century, the St. Etienne's church is based on a cross-shaped plan and was enlarged in the 15 th century by a side nave. You can notice as well the 19th century stained-glass windows. Free entrance.

OPENING SEPTEMBER 26, 2023 // The Micro-Folie project is supported by the French Ministry of Culture and coordinated by La Villette. - Digital museum: hundreds of works from 12 national museums and institutions to discover. Using digital tools such as tablets, projections and virtual reality headsets, you can immerse your hands, eyes and ears in surprising discoveries. And, of course, a mediator to accompany you on your visit, to help you and give you all the information you need. - Conferences and workshops: find out what's on each month online. - Virtual reality: immerse yourself in adventures where anything is possible! Ages 13 and up.

12th century church

Whether you're a couple, a family or a group of friends, don't hesitate to drop in at Fontarabie and enjoy its La Glycine restaurant. A cosy dining room, a shady terrace and generous, carefully prepared cuisine. The restaurant is open from 12pm to 2pm and from 7pm to 9.15pm. Closed on Sundays. Our chef offers a varied cuisine based on market produce and seasonal products.

Bar-Brasserie Closed Sunday afternoon and Monday. Meeting room - free wifi Breakfast from 7.00am to 9.30am Afternoon snack break

28 cm pizzas for 1 person or 40 cm for 2/3 people. The tomato base is 100% homemade and all the ingredients are chosen to bring you the best possible quality. Pizza: takeaway and delivery available in Fontenay-le-Comte only (for orders of 4 pizzas or more).

At lunchtime, this traditional restaurant offers a varied menu that changes with the seasons. In the evening, the restaurant doesn't serve food but cocktails, wines and beers, accompanied by aperitifs and tapas! Open from 6.30am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday.

Catering services on request

Choose from a range of pizzas: basic, classic, gourmet, special and sweet. Kiosquito lunchtime menus from €4.20. Fresh dough made on site every day, and cooked on a stone floor. Two sizes are available and prices range from €5.90 to €13.90. Drinks are also available. Takeaway sales

Chicago Pizza is open 7 days a week. Your pizzeria offers you a complete menu, from the most classic recipes to the most contemporary, each as tasty as the next. 24 pizzas on the menu all year round, plus an exclusive pizza every month, delicious starters and salads, and desserts selected for your enjoyment... Discover Chicago Pizza, pick up your pizzas or have them delivered to your door (extra charge) and rediscover the pleasure of taste... There's also a pizza vending machine at 61 rue de la République (7 days a week, 24 hours a day). Pizzas: delivery in Fontenay-le-Comte and Longèves, and takeaway.

Option to dine in the dining room or on the terrace in a quiet courtyard at the rear of the restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Closed: Sunday and Wednesday

A cosy, gourmet address open Tuesday to Saturday: 9am to 6.30pm. Remember to book, brunch/lunch quantities are limited: 09.84.46.47.70

Themed restaurant, Caribbean (Cuban) decor, straw hut inside the restaurant + terrace. Salads, grilled meats. Quick menu at lunchtime, gourmet plate, Cuban dishes served with jacket potatoes. Open in winter : Monday to Thursday: lunch Friday: lunch and dinner Saturday: evening Summer opening : Monday to Wednesday : lunch Thursday & Friday : lunch and dinner Saturday evening

This former hostelry dating back to 1520 now welcomes you all year round in a contemporary setting. We offer 49 rooms of varying standard, including 2 family rooms and 2 rooms adapted for people with reduced mobility. Our rooms are equipped with free WiFi, TNT, Canal+, reversible air conditioning and 1 car park (closed at night and equipped with electric recharging points) is available free of charge. Reception opening times : Monday to Saturday: 7am to 11pm Sunday 7am to 12pm (winter) and 7am to 12pm then 5pm to 9pm (summer) Our restaurant, open from 12 noon to 2pm and from 7pm to 9.15pm from Monday to Saturday, invites you to discover French cuisine with a touch of originality. In fine weather, you can enjoy the terrace shaded by a magnificent parma wisteria.

The living area includes an open-plan kitchen, table and 4 chairs, TV, sofa bed and large storage cupboards. Separate WC and shower room. The bedroom, with its 140 cm bed, is under the eaves and has superb subdued lighting, creating a cocooning space. You have a bird's eye view of the property's swimming pool and wooded grounds, with access to a private balcony. There is a bike room on the ground floor and a separate exit leading directly to Fontenay-Le-Comte town centre. The owner provides a fondue set, a pierrade, a cot and a high chair on request, as well as blankets or small mattresses. We do not provide bath towels, table towels or gloves (but we can if you forget). Only the sheets will be waiting for you in your cosy beds.

- EQUIPMENT - ► Living room and kitchen: connected television (youtube...), Habitat sofa, standing area with 2 high chairs, combined oven/microwave, sink, induction hob, fridge-freezer, kitchen utensils, kettle, coffee machine, toaster, wall-mounted USB sockets. ► Sleeping area: BULTEX double bed, wardrobe, wall-mounted USB sockets. ► Bathroom: XXL shower tray, hairdryer, heated towel rail, washing machine, toilet. Included: WiFI, bed linen and towels. The flat is on the 2nd floor, without lift. Access is via a connected lock. Your code will be sent to you before your arrival. IMPORTANT: check-in is independent and can be done from 5pm, check-out is until 11am on the day of departure (can be changed on request).

- EQUIPMENT - ► Living room and kitchen: connected television (youtube, ...), 2 armchairs, standing eating area with 2 high chairs, combined oven / microwave, sink, induction hob, fridge freezer, kitchen utensils, kettle, coffee machine, toaster. ► Sleeping area: BULTEX double bed, wardrobe, USB chargers. ► Bathroom: walk-in shower, hairdryer, heated towel rail, washing machine, toilet. Included: wifi, bed linen and towels. The accommodation is located on the 1st floor, without lift. Access is via a connected lock. Your code will be sent to you before your arrival. IMPORTANT: Check-in is independent and can be done from 5pm, check-out is until 11am on the day of departure (can be changed on request).

Let yourself be charmed by this bright, fully renovated 38 m² 2-room flat. Decorated with care, its bedroom with comfortable bedding, its fully-equipped kitchen and its fitted bathroom will give you the satisfaction of a very pleasant stay. The living room also has a sofa bed (sleeps two adults). - EQUIPMENT - ► Living room and kitchen: connected television (youtube...), sofa bed, dining table for 4, microwave, combined oven, sink, induction hob, fridge-freezer, kitchen utensils, kettle, coffee machine, toaster, wall-mounted USB sockets. ► Bedroom: BULTEX double bed, bedside tables, wardrobe, wall-mounted USB sockets. ► Bathroom: bath, hairdryer, heated towel rail, washing machine, toilet. Included: WiFI, bed linen and towels. The accommodation is on the 2nd floor, without lift. Access is via a connected lock. Your code will be sent to you before your arrival. IMPORTANT: check-in is autonomous and can be done from 3pm, check-out is until 11am on the day of departure (can be changed on request).

Loft on the 2nd floor of a renovated old house in the centre of town. The entrance is via the photographic studio on the ground floor. The owner's flat is on the 1st floor. Direct access to the loft by lift or staircase (roller shutter at the bottom of the staircase). Personalised decoration with a photographic theme. Living room/kitchen (decorative fireplace, hi-fi system) with 1 double bed (160cm) and 1 sofa bed (2 x 80cm mattresses), shower room/wc. Wifi internet access. Photo courses on request. Public car park 100 m away, free blue zone parking in the street. No smoking: End-of-stay cleaning: €50/stay; Sheet hire for 1 or 2 people: €10/bed/stay; Bathroom linen hire: €8/stay. Additional charges: Heating package: 8€/day (payable to the owner).

4 travellers - 1 bedroom - 2 beds - 1 bathroom Ground floor: Delightful through entrance, view of the garden. Living room + dining room, sofa bed, pellet stove. Open-plan kitchen and small garden. Wooden terrace, garden furniture. First floor: Master bedroom, bathroom, large dressing room, fireplace, sofa. Free parking (Place Saint-Jean).

Accommodation on the 2nd floor (top floor), 1 corridor leading to 1 bedroom with 1 double bed and large dressing room, 1 bedroom with 2 single beds and shelving, 1 bathroom (bath), 1 WC, 1 lounge and 1 kitchen equipped with oven, hob, microwave, fridge, washing machine, coffee machine, kettle, toaster, etc. Bikes can be left in a small lockable room or hall.

Supermarket 350m away, Rue de la République 300m away, Halles 350m away, free parking 100m away, bus stop 100m away. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom Living room with open-plan fitted kitchen (induction hob, oven, fridge, coffee machine), dining area, lounge, connected TV, fibre, office area, utility room, washing machine, hoover. Electric heating. Bright and south-facing. Quiet residence. Nestled in the legendary Rue des Loges, once a historic thoroughfare rich in heritage, with three historic monuments in its own right. Fontenay-le-Comte has been awarded the Ville d'art et d'histoire (City of Art and History) label. Accommodation close to services and leisure facilities (amusement park, beaches, listed historic monuments). Free parking nearby.

Historic district, view of the Vendée and the Pont des Sardines. On two levels, very easy to access, double bedding.