Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Châtellerault, France

Châtellerault, divided by the River Vienne, is a serene town with a wealth of historical and cultural significance. The right bank features a historic quarter of Renaissance townhouses where the philosopher René Descartes spent his childhood. Cross the dignified 16th-century Pont Henri-IV, and you will reach the town’s old industrial district.

For over 150 years, this area functioned as a weapons factory, employing a significant workforce, and has been recently revitalized. An exceptional car and motorcycle museum now occupies the premises, while the refurbished 19th-century factories and warehouses have adopted new purposes. Furthermore, you can plan excursions to an ancient battlefield, a vast forest with a lake, a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre, and a network of underground medieval tunnels, all conveniently close to the town.

Let us examine the top attractions in Châtellerault:

1. Musée Auto, Moto, Vélo

Located in a spacious historical weapons factory on the left bank, this museum houses approximately 200 vintage automobiles and motorcycles.

These exhibits illustrate the evolution of transportation over the past 200 years, from 19th-century horse-drawn carriages to contemporary prototypes.

The motorcycle collection is particularly noteworthy, featuring an authentic Bugatti and four impeccably maintained Citroën 2CVs.

A section is also dedicated to the weapons factory, which played a crucial role in France’s First World War efforts, alongside fascinating artifacts from the town’s former history museum.

2. Pont Henri-IV

This sturdy bridge provides the only access to Old Châtellerault from the west, having been constructed during the late 16th century.

Crossing the Vienne on the left bank, you will find two circular towers featuring mullioned windows and slate roofs.

Despite their imposing presence, these towers were not intended for military defense; their primary functions were toll collection and controlling entry to Châtellerault during epidemics.

The towers and nine arches present a picturesque view from the town’s quays, especially against the backdrop of the lush Cognet river island foliage.

3. Maison Descartes

While Châtellerault does not boast numerous grand monuments, it offers several intriguing smaller sites within its medieval core and elegant 19th-century neighborhoods.

A notable photo opportunity is the Maison Descartes, the 16th-century residence of René Descartes’ grandparents located on Rue Bourbon.

The renowned philosopher frequented this home during his youth and attended the old college across the street for several years (marked by a plaque). Although the house is generally not open to visitors, except during heritage days in September, it is worth including in your walking tour to admire the exquisite Renaissance architecture characterized by sculpted pediments above the windows and entrance.

4. Hôtel Sully

This 17th-century building, apart from its stunning architecture, was constructed using stones salvaged from the Pont Henri-IV. The designer, Charles Androuet du Cerceau, belonged to a distinguished family of architects active in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Gaze through the gates at this magnificent Renaissance property featuring a spacious courtyard.

Having served as the town’s museum until 2004, it remains a topic of discussion: while owned by the municipality, it lies vacant until a decision regarding its future is reached.

In the interim, the town’s valuable textile collection is in storage, while a selection of local artifacts is displayed at the Musée Auto, Moto, Vélo.

5. Boulevard de Blossac

On the eastern side of the historical center, Châtellerault’s fortifications were dismantled in the 1700s to facilitate a bold new development.

The Boulevard de Blossac emerged from this initiative, tracing the path formerly occupied by the old walls.

This area gives a glimpse into the town’s dynamic life, allowing for leisurely strolls under tree-lined avenues and a rest by the decorative wrought iron bandstand.

The plaza adjacent to the town hall is adorned with lawns, a fountain, and benches shaded by stone pines, providing a serene spot for relaxation.

Additionally, seize the opportunity to photograph the Italianate Blossac Theatre and the 19th-century residential buildings lining the boulevard.

6. La Manu

The building housing the Musée Auto, Moto, Vélo is part of an entire district of factories constructed in the early 19th century.

From 1819 onward, countless individuals were employed here, initially producing swords, then transitioning to cannons and smaller firearms, eventually leading to the manufacture of carbines, automatic rifles, and pistols by the 20th century.

This production ceased in 1968, yet the facilities have since been repurposed.

In addition to the museum, there exists a military archive and the French national circus school.

Imposing warehouses, smokestacks, and the Envigne canal contribute to the district’s evocative atmosphere, particularly during the evening when the area is illuminated.

7. Église Saint-Jacques

This church underwent a Neo-Romanesque restoration in the 19th century, altering its facade and adding two towers.

However, the primary structure of Église Saint-Jacques dates back to the 11th century.

It serves as a landmark on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, and the polychrome statue of St. James, depicted as a pilgrim, serves as a reminder of the countless travelers who have paused here to offer their prayers.

In the north tower, a carillon comprising 52 bells can be found, the sole existing carillon in the Poitou-Charentes region.

8. Pont Camille-de-Hogues

Located upstream from Pont Henri-IV, this bridge may appear unassuming at first glance.

Constructed at the dawn of the 20th century, it connects the manufacturing district on the left bank to the newer suburbs on the right.

However, engineers may find interest in its historical significance, as it was the first reinforced concrete road bridge in France.

Designed by the innovative architect François Hennebique, the bridge was erected in just four months.

In 2002, it received recognition, being designated as a “monument historique.”

9. Théâtre Gallo-Romain du Vieux-Poitiers

Distinct from modern Poitiers, Vieux-Poitiers represents the ancient Roman city of Vetus Pictavis, situated just 10 minutes from Châtellerault in the village of Naintré. This captivating site spans over 80 hectares and dates back to the reign of Emperor Augustus.

Strategically located along the road connecting Poitiers with Tours, it is positioned where the Clain and Vienne Rivers converge.

The amphitheatre serves as the centerpiece, measuring over 116 meters across with a former capacity for 10,000 spectators. The foundations and remnants of a sizable arch provide insight into its former grandeur.

For those seeking deeper understanding, guided tours are available, offering insights into the amphitheatre’s history alongside pottery kilns, villas, and temples that once characterized the city.

10. Souterrain Refuge de Prinçay

Ten meters beneath the village of Prinçay lies a recently discovered remarkable heritage site: a system of subterranean caves arranged across two levels.

These structures, dating back to the 1100s, served as shelters from marauding bands traversing the Vienne during periods of conflict.

In winter, these caves provided a suitable environment for hemp spinning, shielding inhabitants from the cold, and later served as refuge during the Revolution, a time marked by intense conflict in the region.

This site is not a typical attraction where one can freely visit; however, the tourist office in Châtellerault maintains a schedule for tours.

11. Moussais-la-Bataille

Located merely 10 kilometers south of Châtellerault is a historically significant battlefield where a pivotal conflict occurred in the 8th century.

The Battle of Tours (or Poitiers) took place in 732, pitting the invading Umayyad Caliphate against the combined forces of the Franks and Burgundians led by Charles Martel, the grandfather of Charlemagne. The decisive Frankish victory resulted in the retreat of Moorish forces back to the Iberian Peninsula, subsequently leading to the establishment of the Carolingian Empire.

The battlefield is commemorated with an extensive chessboard and orientation tables that elucidate the battle’s context, unfolding events, and aftermath.

12. La Forêt Domaniale de Châtellerault

In lieu of a park, Châtellerault boasts an expansive woodland area at the southern entrance to the town.

Spanning over 530 hectares, this forest features numerous trails ideal for cycling and walking.

On pleasant days, consider packing a baguette along with cheese and charcuterie from the town market for a delightful picnic in the forest.

During the summer months, this location is also suitable for family members seeking a swim in the lake, which is safe and supervised by lifeguards in July and August.

13. Futuroscope

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2017, this high-tech theme park focuses on multimedia experiences and special effects.

Its shows take place in futuristic pavilions featuring 3D or 4D IMAX theatres, as well as productions blending live action with special effects, including the new Forge aux étoiles performance by Cirque du Soleil.

Even after three decades, the park maintains its avant-garde status, consistently introducing new shows and auditoriums almost every season.

One of the latest attractions is the Danse avec les Robots “robocoaster,” which underwent a major overhaul in 2013. It utilizes industrial robots to elevate your seat and engage in a synchronized dance to a soundtrack by Daft Punk and Martin Solveig.

14. Abbaye de l’Étoile

Founded in 1117, the Cistercian Abbaye de l’Étoile is nearly a complete monastic complex.

The abbey experienced significant prosperity during the 13th century, when most of the surviving structures were constructed.

Subsequently, the site suffered damage during the Hundred Years’ War, the French Wars of Religion, and the Revolutionary period in the 1790s, during which it ultimately lost its religious functions.

The most evocative structure is the Gothic chapter house, characterized by ribbed vaults and minimalist, sober decor.

Notable features include a dungeon for disobedient monks, adorned with 18th-century graffiti, and agricultural buildings that house a bakery with its original ovens.

15. Local Gastronomy

The Vienne Department is renowned for its melons, producing more than any other region in France.

The Haut-Poitou melon holds the IGP designation, with strict regulations governing aspects such as crop rotation, soil quality, storage, shipping, and size.

This cantaloupe variety features orange flesh and is typically in season from June through September.

If you wish to experience local cuisine, be sure to sample farci poitevin, generally served as an appetizer and unlike anything else.

This dish consists of a cold vegetable pâté made of chopped cabbage, leeks, and various greens that have been tied in a net and poached in stock for several hours.