From Domaine de La Barre, history and beautiful site enthusiasts can feast their eyes on places dating from prehistory to the Renaissance, witnessing the power and wealth of Haut-Poitou.
In addition to the many Romanesque churches, including Saint-Hilaire de Melle church, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998, here are a few suggestions to whet your appetite:
Within 20 minutes:
- Roman Bridge of Gourgé
- Medieval City of Parthenay
- Les jardins du Gué in Lhoumois
- Cities of: Saint Loup sur Thouet, Airvault
Within 40 minutes:
- The commandery of the Antonins in Saint-Marc-la-Lande
- Coudray-Salbart Castle
- City of Thouars and its Regional Center for Resistance and Liberty
- Château du Gazeau in Sainte-Ouenne
- Renaissance Château of Coulonges sur l’Autize
- Oiron Castle
Within an hour:
- Bougon Tumuli, the oldest necropolis in Europe
- Melle Silver Mines
- The medieval village of Vouvant (one of the most beautiful villages in France)
- St Mesmin Castle in Saint-André sur Sèvre
- Fontevraud Abbey