Discover the Treasures of La grimaudiere, Vienne

An enchanting, little-known river, a thousand-year-old treasure with crystal-clear waters, the Dive between Sauzeau and La Grimaudière offers a charming natural setting and an authentic, well-preserved heritage. Along the way, you'll see remarkable trees, the Moulin de Chollay, the Moulin à eau de la Seigneurie, the Roches quarry, the Tumulus du Puy Taillé and the Moulin de Surin. You can tailor-make your own tour: the Dive is 50 km long.

From the banks of the Dive, you will discover a landscape of steep valleys and hillsides. This trail will lead you through picturesque villages such as Mazeuil and Le Verger-sur-Dive which has the particularity of being made up of only one street with the famous porch-balets of Poitou.

Moncontour, a thousand year old stronghold full of water spots, wash houses, parks and historical stones... The wash house trail is a beautiful pedestrian walk in the heart of a green setting bathed by the Dive.

The Mollets quarry, owned by the Parthenay-Gâtine Community of Municipalities and developed and managed in partnership with the Conservatoire d'Espaces Naturels de Nouvelle-Aquitaine, was exploited from the end of the 19th century until 1950 to produce limestone. It is now protected and developed so that young and old alike can marvel at a 160 million year old heritage. The interpretation trail allows you to discover the close links between geology, landscape, biodiversity and human activities! Various activities are offered throughout the year by the Conservatoire d'espaces naturels de Nouvelle-Aquitaine and the association l'Homme et la Pierre.

This 7.3 km circuit allows you to discover the charming commune of Pressigny, its heritage and its landscapes.

Discover this charming little town of character. You will start this walk in front of the Tourist Office of Airvault, near the 19th century covered market. From here, you can see the façade of the Saint-Pierre abbey, the half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries, the access to the underground fountain (you can ask for the key free of charge at the Tourist Office in exchange for an ID) and the highest tower of the town's castle. You will continue this discovery by going to the municipal museum Jacques Guidez, presenting an exhibition with arts and popular traditions. Then take a step up to the Old Castle, a private property, which gives you a superb panorama of the town from its threshold.

From the medieval town, join the Thouet and discover on your way the architectural testimonies of the XIXth and XXth century (Art Nouveau house, Sénéchaux castle...). Your return by the footbridge of Catalogne will allow you to join the Saint Jérôme suburb and the picturesque district of the Old Castle, seat of the temporal power of the city in the Middle Ages. The booklet "Les chemins d'Aldéarde" is available for sale at the Tourist Office of Airvault, at the Jacques Guidez museum in Airvault and at the town hall. Then follow the medallions of Aldéarde to discover the treasures of the "Petite Cité de Caractère".

Discover the Saint-Pierre abbey church, the conventual buildings and the abbey church which houses the ethnographic museum. Then, join the Place des Promenades for a 1.5 km walk to discover the Petite Cité de Caractère. The booklet "Les chemins d'Aldéarde" is available for sale at the Tourist Office of Airvault, at the Jacques Guidez museum in Airvault and at the town hall, then follow the medallions of Aldéarde to discover the treasures of the Petite Cité de Caractère.

Let yourself be surprised by the treasures of Romanesque art in the Thouet valley. From the Petite Cité de Caractère of Airvault you will also discover the treasures of Saint-Généroux, Marne and Saint-Jouin-de-Marne. A 35 km circuit in the heart of the Thouet valley. Departure from the Halles d'Airvault.

This trail through the cultivated countryside offers beautiful views of traditional homes built of "left" stone. Walk through a land of rehabilitated springs and discover the cradle of Acadia and our American cousins.

Gîte arranged in an adjoining part of the large Maison de Maître owners comprising on the ground floor, a living room, kitchen, wc. Upstairs, the Tulip room (1 bed 140, 1 bed 90), the water lily room (1 bed 140, cot), a bathroom. Electric heating. Terrace of 30m² and private grassed area and shared land of 2000m².

In the village of Marnes, on the border between the Deux-Sèvres and Vienne departments, an old dairy was built in 1907. Restored in keeping with the authenticity of the site, the dairy overlooks a hiking trail called "La Sente Divine", which runs alongside the river Dive. The 110m² first floor comprises an entrance hall, living room, kitchen, linen room and games room. Access by 7 steps to the half-floor with a corridor leading to an independent toilet, Bedroom 1 (1 bed 160) and Bedroom 2 (2 beds 90 convertible into 1 bed 180) and an independent shower room. Formerly an attic, the first floor comprises a relaxation room with corridor leading to bedrooms: Bedroom 3 (2 beds 90) and Bedroom 4 (2 beds 90 convertible into 180), attic shower room, separate wc. Large enclosed courtyard. Bicycles available, garden furniture, parasol, deckchairs, pétanque, table tennis and table soccer.

This charming gîte on the banks of the river Dive, in the hamlet of Retournay, lies between Marnes and Moncontour. Once a water mill where several generations of millers succeeded one another, this workplace has been transformed over time into a haven of peace. La villa des Licoches, housed in an old 13th-century building, features a large living room with fireplace, fully-equipped kitchenette, sitting area, shower room and separate toilet on the first floor. Upstairs, 4 bedrooms, 3 with two single beds that can be made into a double bed and one with a double bed, a bathroom with bath and shower and separate toilet. Bicycles available. Office and meeting space available.

Situated in the countryside on a secluded plot of land, this recently tastefully restored charming house offers a magnificent view of the Thouarsais countryside. With five bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, a dining room, three bathrooms, this accommodation is ideal for large families or groups. On sunny days you can enjoy the property's garden, terrace and swimming pool.

Relax in this quiet, elegant accommodation. A 16th-century house, formerly the Château de Saint Loup?s Maison d?Hébergement and Auberge à l?Enseigne de Saint Jacques. House fully prepared on arrival, nothing to do on arrival or on departure. Beds made, towels, pool towels and household linen provided. And much more? A warm, relaxing atmosphere combining 16th-century architecture, the charm of the 1930s and contemporary modernity.

Beautiful 16th century timber-framed house, listed as a Historic Monument having belonged to the ancestors of Voltaire. In the heart of a "Cité de Caractère", close to the castle, not overlooked. The search for authenticity, comfort and harmony has influenced this superb restoration. Enclosed garden with stone walls (2500m²), river nearby (le Thouet), heated swimming pool from April to the end of September (4mx8m, depth 1.5m) located in an enclosed area (security fence). Terrace, outdoor kitchen near the pool (gas terrace heating), garden furniture, fixed bbq, portico, large secure trampoline, carport. NEW : cinema projection room ; private dancing ; SPA complete with jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, herbal tea room, 40 m2 rest room ; 40 m2 gym ; outdoor Japanese aerial terrace. Wellness area and gym with free access.

Detached house, not overlooked, set in enclosed, fully-secured grounds, ideal for a family holiday. Accommodation comprises a living area with kitchen-dining room opening onto the lounge, 3 bedrooms (1 with double bed; 1 with 2 single beds and 1 with 1 single bed). Outdoor games are available in the garden. Close to Moncontour water sports center, 45km from Futuroscope and 1h15 from Puy du Fou.

A gem of French architecture and a high point in the history of Poitou, the Château de Saint-Loup, with its gardens, is a first-rate historical complex. Near Futuroscope, Puy du Fou, Loire Valley castles and Marais Poitevin.

Located in the village of Noizé, near Oiron in the Deux Sèvres - New Aquitaine, this accommodation is composed of two very beautiful gites. The first one has 2 bedrooms, 1 living room, 1 kitchen and 1 bathroom. The 2nd has a living room, kitchen, large hall with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. During sunny days, you can enjoy a terrace and a heated swimming pool.

Water mill with complete milling equipment, including grindstone, sieve mill, converter, draw-bags, water wheel and gears. Established on 2 floors and a first floor. Guided tour by SMS reservation

This water mill, dating back to the 14th century, has been maintained over the years and is now looking to the future by using the hydraulic energy of the Dive River, with which it lives in harmony. A "sagebien" type wheel preserves the charm of the place and drives a generator with permanent magnets which produces an alternating current of 400 volts. Guided tour, video on the work done, objects and milling tools.

The Trois Noyers garden is specialized in forgotten vegetables. Its tomatoes have made the reputation of Jacky Mercier Today, his organic vegetables are prized by the greatest starred chefs in France, London, Belgium and elsewhere. NOT TO BE MISSED : Tomato festival, Open house

The Romanesque church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, listed as a Historic Monument since 1862, is worth a visit. Its oldest parts date back to the twelfth century, when the style of the novel poitevin reaches its peak. This church, rectangular in shape, has the distinction of having a roof entirely slate.

The Romanesque church of Saint-Martin was rebuilt in the 19th century, but it still has its late medieval bell tower, made mostly of tufa stone. The presbytery still has an original "wheel" well. The cemetery was moved, along with its cross hosannière, in the seventies. A large shaded square has replaced them. Near the church, under the porch of Saint-Martin, is the Armoire à lire, à jouer, à rêver. The principle: I deposit, I borrow, I read, I play, I look, I return. The wardrobe is based on civic-mindedness and sharing, take care of it, it's yours! Every month, the association organizes a workshop related to books, writing, games... Free of charge and for all ages, come in great numbers, it's an opportunity to meet our neighbors.

Small structure of culture of saffron and aromatic and medicinal plants and fresh flowers.

Salle des Fêtes

Small 16th century castle in Renaissance style with a square plan. It features mullioned windows on all four facades, three dormer windows adorned with pilasters, a stairway tower pierced with loopholes, a watchtower and a brackets above the door. The interior retains three large superimposed chimneys whose hoods are supported by a decorated capital. A door with a drawbridge remains in a nearby communal area, providing a first defence. The castle is framed by a series of easement buildings.

On November 16, 1939, it was decided to set up a Polish army camp on the Veluché site, on the edge of the Airvault commune, on land that today belongs to the cement works. The land was requisitioned from private individuals at the time. The official name of the camp was "Camp de circonstance de Saint-Loup-sur-Thouet", which was to be used for the incorporation and training of 32,000 fighting units of the 2nd and 4th Polish divisions. Once the units had been formed, they were distributed to neighboring farms to undergo the necessary military training. The Veluché camp served as a base camp and military depot for all these units. Two books have been published on this subject: Un Camp en Deux-Sèvres, 1939-1941, by Mattieu Manceau & Airvaudais-Val du Thouet, miroir de la seconde guerre mondiale, by Souvenir Français, on sale.

The mound is not dated but it would probably have served as a landmark during one of the wars of religion. It would shelter corpses or even chests with difficult access. But what intrigues the most is the legend about it under this mound would hide a horse or a statue of the Virgin in gold but nobody has ever found one of these objects. It would be the oldest Neolithic monument named but not recognized in the Deux-Sèvres. The tumulus was classified as a Historic Monument in 1970.

Take away possible : from Monday to Saturday evening

Takeaway meals on Sundays, by reservation. Sanitary measures applied

We offer lunch and dinner services, preferably by reservation, using only fresh local and seasonal products, most of which are home-made The bar is open non-stop for drinks, ice cream and some snacks (cookies, muffins...)

Stay in Moncontour, Between Nature & Adventure: Accommodation & Activities Located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Moncontour is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its lake offering various water activities, scenic landscapes, and rich historical heritage, Moncontour Active Park guarantees a refreshing and exciting getaway. Accommodation in Moncontour – Camping Moncontour Active Park The Camping Moncontour Active Park – Terres de France welcomes you to a stunning natural setting by a beautiful lake. Whether you choose a chalet, a mobile home, or a camping pitch for your tent or camper van, you will enjoy a peaceful and friendly environment, ideal for family vacations or outdoor getaways with friends. Activities & Points of Interest Moncontour Leisure Park: Enjoy water sports on the lake (paddleboarding, canoeing, swimming) and try the thrilling wakeboarding cable park. Hiking & Mountain Biking: Explore scenic trails around the lake and through the surrounding countryside. Moncontour Castle: Step back in time and discover the medieval history of this region through the remains of this historic fortress. Futuroscope: Just an hour’s drive away, experience this futuristic and immersive theme park. Loire Valley Vineyards: Take a trip to discover local wines and charming wine-producing villages nearby. Book your stay at Camping near Futuroscope and enjoy a unique combination of relaxation, sports, and outdoor exploration!

Restaurant, tapas bar, guinguette, set up for the summer season. In the meantime, the BEUN'AISE food-truck is offering its services! Find them on Thursday lunchtimes in front of the PMU in Airvault (Café des promenades), on Friday evenings at La Minute Blonde in Airvault and on Saturday evenings at MZ TOC in Thouars.

Le 12 welcomes you with several formulas. With an express formula at the slate during the week and a weekend menu, a very attractive seasonal menu with suggestions from the chef at the slate. Free parking, themed evenings, air-conditioned room, pizzas every weekend on site or to take away. GUIDE DU ROUTARD 2022 & Maître Restaurateur, a completely home-made cuisine every day. The team invites you to discover a cuisine entirely "Home-made and fresh products", creative and traditional, made with local products from our producer partners.

Restaurant Traditional cuisine

Julie & Bertrand du Bistrot, are delighted to welcome you to the beautifully restored Vieux Relais in Airvault, to share a moment of conviviality. Whether indoors or out, for a meal or an aperitif, enjoy Bertrand's home-made delicacies in the kitchen, and Julie's conviviality in the dining room. Information and reservations on 05 17 43 33 01. Open from October to May: Monday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (closed on Sundays) & from June to September: Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Catering from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Bar the rest of the day.

Chloé and Jef welcome you for 100% Italian food. Italian cuisine, catering and groceries. Open Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 7 pm, Saturday 9 am to 7 pm and Sunday 9 am to 1 pm. Closed on Mondays.

8 shaded pitches on the banks of the Dive, with public toilets, dumping area, water, children's playground, 2 boules areas.

Furnished holiday home for 4 people

1 room for two persons

In the heart of Poitou, 30mn from Futuroscope and 1 hour from the Puy du Fou and the Marais Poitevin, the Maison de Maître "Les Cours" is a restored family house located in the small village of Maisoncelle, on a cereal farm, close to the owners. Access by the large courtyard, south side with parking and relaxation area with games for children. An enclosed private garden in the shade of the hundred-year-old Cedar tree. Wooden terrace of 28m² with garden furniture and barbecue. Games room in the old mule stable. A quality restoration which combines traditional lime-heat materials and a more contemporary decoration. Care and research in the layout. Discovery of the Romanesque art and cities of character: Airvault, St Loup-Lamairé and Oiron. Numerous music festivals in the summer. Thouars and Parthenay, hiking circuits nearby.

You will stay in a spacious stone farmhouse on a private estate. The house has a large living/dining room, kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a spacious covered terrace. Authentic details such as wooden beams, natural stone walls and a century-old fireplace have been preserved and, together with contemporary amenities, form an attractive and comfortable vacation home. The covered terrace has a sitting area and a large dining table. There is a playground in the shared garden and the garden is fully fenced. The area is excellent for walking, cycling, fishing and as a base for a variety of sites. A recreational lake is 10 km away. Major attractions in the area include the castles and vineyards of the Loire, Futuroscope, Puy de Fou and Trois-Moutiers.

This renovated vacation home has 2 bedrooms and can accommodate 4 people, making it ideal for a family. It is located in Frontenay sur Dive. Authentic details such as wooden beams, natural stone walls and the old fireplace have been preserved in the house. There is a forest at 6 km, where you can go for nice walks and a river flows at 6 km from the house. A recreational lake with a beach is 10 km away. Also visit the beautiful castles and wine estates of the Loire, Futuroscope, Puy de Fou and Les Trois-Moutiers. The living room has a cozy wood stove, and the open kitchen includes a dishwasher and oven. There is a shared garden and you can relax on your private terrace. A washing machine is available. There is a Wi-Fi connection in the house and a pet is allowed.

This renovated vacation home has 2 bedrooms and can accommodate 4 people, making it ideal for a family. It is located in Frontenay sur Dive. Authentic details such as wooden beams and natural stone walls have been preserved in the house. There is a forest at 6 km, where you can go for nice walks and a river flows at 6 km from the house. A recreational lake with a beach is 10 km away. Visit also the beautiful castles and wine estates of the Loire, the Futuroscope, the Puy de Fou and Les Trois-Moutiers. In the large and high living room there is a nice open kitchen with, among other things, a dishwasher and an oven. There is a shared garden and you can relax outdoors on the private terrace. A private washing machine is available. There is a Wi-Fi connection in the house and a pet is allowed.

Gîte arranged in an adjoining part of the large Maison de Maître owners comprising on the ground floor, a living room, kitchen, wc. Upstairs, the Tulip room (1 bed 140, 1 bed 90), the water lily room (1 bed 140, cot), a bathroom. Electric heating. Terrace of 30m² and private grassed area and shared land of 2000m².

In the village of Marnes, on the border between the Deux-Sèvres and Vienne departments, an old dairy was built in 1907. Restored in keeping with the authenticity of the site, the dairy overlooks a hiking trail called "La Sente Divine", which runs alongside the river Dive. The 110m² first floor comprises an entrance hall, living room, kitchen, linen room and games room. Access by 7 steps to the half-floor with a corridor leading to an independent toilet, Bedroom 1 (1 bed 160) and Bedroom 2 (2 beds 90 convertible into 1 bed 180) and an independent shower room. Formerly an attic, the first floor comprises a relaxation room with corridor leading to bedrooms: Bedroom 3 (2 beds 90) and Bedroom 4 (2 beds 90 convertible into 180), attic shower room, separate wc. Large enclosed courtyard. Bicycles available, garden furniture, parasol, deckchairs, pétanque, table tennis and table soccer.

This charming country house, restored by the owners, is ideally located at the crossroads of Poitou, Vienne and Deux-Sèvres. 25 km from Thouars, city of Art and History, in the village of Marnes in the heart of Romanesque Art, 3 guest rooms have been furnished in an atypical setting with personalized and original decoration. Each room has a double bed, a bathroom and private toilets. Free WiFi and free private parking are available on site. In summer, you can enjoy the barbecue in the garden and relax on the furnished terrace.