Visiting Chasseneuil-du-Poitou
Chasseneuil-du-Poitou is a small town located in the Vienne department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It is primarily known for hosting the famous Futuroscope theme park and its adjacent technology hub. Chasseneuil-du-Poitou is a pleasant town that rewards those who take the time to explore its local culture and natural surroundings.
A park focused on the future
The town is widely recognized because it is home to the second-largest theme park in France, Futuroscope. Opened in 1987, it features a mix of scientific exhibits, rides, and large-scale visual shows. Approximately 2 million people visit annually to experience the high-tech projections, optical illusions, and immersive sensations. Naturally, the vast majority of travelers heading to Chasseneuil-du-Poitou are here for a trip to the park.
Museums, historic buildings, and churches
There is more to this town than just the park. Chasseneuil-du-Poitou offers an interesting mix of architecture and religious heritage, complemented by several parks, gardens, and walking trails. Walking through the streets allows you to appreciate the look of the older facades. If you enjoy history, La Maison d'Autrefois displays vintage artifacts from previous generations, offering a glimpse into daily life from the past that appeals to both children and adults. Other notable sites include the town hall, which served as a boys' school until 1863, the Moulin d'Anguitard, where grain was once milled, and La Vicane, a property that was under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Poitiers in the 15th century. The Église Saint-Clément, built starting in the 13th century, overlooks the town with its prominent bell tower.
Green spaces
Chasseneuil-du-Poitou has several great spots for a stroll. Crossing the Pont Neuf or the Pont Romain provides a different perspective on the town and the surrounding area. You can head to the île du Moulin or the île Verte for a more rural escape. The former is a strip of land between the two banks of the Clain river, popular for its flower-adorned gazebo that hosts various events and receptions in the summer. The latter is even more popular during the warm months, with concerts, festivities, and social gatherings filling the calendar in July and August. A small islet reachable by a wooden footbridge allows visitors to swim and jump from a three-story diving platform. Finally, the Jardin de l'Europe features a unique layout where 27 species of trees represent the 27 countries of the European Union.
When to go
The best time to visit Chasseneuil-du-Poitou is during the summer season. This is when you can best enjoy the outdoor attractions at Futuroscope and the various walking paths in and around the town.
How to get there
Chasseneuil-du-Poitou is located just a 20-minute car ride from the city of Poitiers, which is served by a small airport. For a wider range of flight options, fly into Nantes. From there, you can take a regional TER train to the Chasseneuil-du-Poitou station, a trip that takes approximately 4 hours.
The city is cut through by major highways that kind of ruin the charm. Besides Futuroscope, you can keep on moving.