Vienne department hotels - Book hotels in France at great rates

The Département Vienne is in the western part of France in the Region Poitou-Charentes. Poitiers, the main town, is built on a rocky outcrop high above the surrounding countryside. The church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande, one of the most significant romanesque churches in France, has an imposing west facade and interesting biblical scenes above the doors. The Baptistry of St. Jean was build for christenings in the 4th Century and is one of the oldest Christian buildings in France.

Chauvigny is an idyllic town overshadowed by five castles and the church of St-Pierre and the archeological Museum add further interest to a visit here. Confolens is a small town on the banks of the Vienne which hosts an annual folk festival to which performers come from all over the world. Many impromptu performances take place on the river banks and in the streets.

The old town has many half timbered houses and the 15th Century river bridge is still in use today. Along the pilgrims‘ route to Santiago de Compostela is Parthenay with its Citadel dating from the 13th Century which has an ancient clock tower and offers good views over the countryside. The castle of La Rochefoucauld is reminiscent of the imposing structures along the river Loire and the inner courtyard has great beauty and harmony. The small town of Civray is a local market centre and the church has a superbly carved facade.

The peace and quiet of the Vienne countryside is much appreciated by visitors.

Population: 419 000 (2006)

Main towns: Châtellerault, Montmorillon, Poitiers