A few years ago, I became a fan of hiking. This activity allows me to combine physical exercise, escape and discoveries. Walking is sometimes the only way to access places worth a detour.
To disconnect from everyday life, I put on my high-top shoes and slip away on the trails of Grand Châtellerault. Believe me: I'm not ready to give up!
Here are the top 5 of my favorite hikes…
1
La Forestière in Oyré
The route begins in the town of Oyré, heading towards the heights... After greeting the residents of the equestrian center, it is time to explore the Guerche forest and its fragrant pines. I allow myself a little detour to greet the oak circle in Leugny, a well-known meeting place for nature lovers. Finches and robins accompany me throughout this very shady first part. I then leave the woods to take paths between cultures and built heritage, such as the Château de la Groie.
Distance: 14km • Duration: 3h35 • Difficulty : Intermediate
I loved : Feeling like I'm walking through a Landes forest, walking through the majestic avenues of pine trees. And take the time to visit the remarkable little Romanesque church of Oyré.
My gourmet break: In Leugny, The Ante Us offers tasty family cuisine. Yum, French toast for dessert! This country restaurant operates in short circuits, in a very friendly atmosphere.
2
The Medieval in Vaux-sur-Vienne
This walk transported me to the 11th and 12th centuries, in the Middle Ages. A real journey through time. At the time, the priory of Saint-Denys-en-Vaulx was rich and powerful. Along the route, we can observe the traces of this significant historical past: remains of the abbey, Notre Dame church, Château du Peu, stone crosses, “lantern of the dead”, troglodyte cellars…
Distance: 10km • Duration: 2h40 • Difficulty : Difficult, little shade
I loved : As a bonus to its medieval heritage, this characterful circuit offers magnificent views of the woods, the Vienne, the castle and the town of Ingrandes.
My gourmet break: Au Blonnerie Manor in Vellèches, Marie opens the table at her inn by reservation, and her shop on the farm from 16 p.m. to 19 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday. In the family, we all love their organic apple juices.
3
La Bucolique in Lésigny-sur-Creuse
This circuit is dedicated to water: starting at the village fountain, next to the church, then walking along the grassy paths to follow the pretty stream, La Luire, and its ponds. What a joy to cross small bridges and pleasant undergrowth! After climbing to the hamlet of Magny which overlooks the hillsides of Poitou and Touraine, I am rewarded with a superb mountain-like landscape.
Distance: 7km • Duration: 2h00 • Difficulty : Intermediate, little shade
I loved : At Magny, the 360-degree panorama is breathtaking! In Lésigny, which I nicknamed “the little Venice of Grand Châtellerault”, I extended the pleasure by walking on the banks of the Creuse.
My gourmet break: Enjoy the terrace and local products served by the restaurantEra of Time in Lesigny-sur-Creuse.
4
La Sensationnelle in Angles-sur-l’Anglin
From the fairgrounds of this “Most Beautiful Village in France”, I go down towards Anglin. Following the river on the first part of the journey, I admire the fortress on its rocky spur, before entering an exotic environment worthy of Louisiana! Branches of moss curtsy as I pass. The return takes place towards the upper town, offering incomparable views over the valley, and bypassing the Château des Certeaux.
Distance: 7km • Duration: 1h50 • Difficulty : Intermediate, very shaded
I loved : The clever mix of Nature and Heritage. At sunset, from the Saint-Pierre chapel, the perspective of the river and the fortress leaves you speechless.
My gourmet break: For a 100% homemade menu, the Tea Room No. 15 is required. The setting is charming, the view breathtaking and the cuisine is delicious.
5
The Family in Usseau
This excursion, near Châtellerault and without any particular difficulty, proved ideal for a walk with my tribe. We start with a stroll in the center of Usseau (church, fountain, picnic area, etc.). Then we cross the fields before trudging quietly to the Pichereau and La Foye woods. Punctuated by localities, the descent takes place via grass paths, with a 15th century fortified castle on the horizon.
Distance: 7,5km • Duration: 2h00 • Difficulty : Easy, partly shaded
I loved : Le La Motte castle in line of sight throughout the descent. I understand why the French Hiking Federation has listed the second half of this trail among “the most beautiful in Vienne”!
My gourmet break: The 100% female team of James Kfé breathes dynamism into the neighboring town of Thuré. Drink a coffee at the counter, enjoy Catherine's traditional cuisine, stock up on local products in the supermarket area: here, everything is possible!
Ready for these beautiful escapes? So, get on track with walkers and long live slow tourism!
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