The Vendée - Must See

	Bazoges en Pareds The charming unspoiled village of Bazoges-en-Pareds is situated in the Bas Bocage region of the Vendée approximately 12 km south-east of Chantonnay. On approaching this tranquil village from almost any direction, one can't help but be impressed by the 14th century medieval donjon (keep) which lies at its heart surrounded by a moat. It was constructed during the Hundred Years War around 1380. This huge tower of honey coloured stone with its little pointed watch tower at one corner is all that remains of the 14th century château which must once have stood on the site. More detail on Bazoges en Pareds

	Nieul sur L'Autise This is an extremely charming and beautiful village situated only 12 km from Fontenay-le-Comte in the south of the Vendée. The renowned Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine (Aliénor d'Aquitaine) was born here in 1122 and her mother Aénor de Châtellerault was buried in the cloisters of the Royal Abbeye St.Vincent. The Abbaye was founded in 1068 and benefited from the protection of the counts of lower Poitou and also the Dukes of Aquitaine. It is one of only a few monastic complexes to have conserved its three main elements of church, cloister, and convent in superb condition. More detail on Nieul sur L'Autise

	Vouvant Vouvant, the only fortified town in the Vendée, is a member of the elite club of the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France' and with some justification as it is one of the most appealing of France's villages. The village itself was created at the beginning of the 11th century close to the 20,000 acre forest of Mervant. The site was chosen by William V, Duke of Aquitaine because of its strategic position and he ordered the monks living in Maillezais to build a stronghold, a church and monastery. The ramparts were added by the powerful Lusignan family in the 12th century to protect the town. More detail on Vouvant

	Prieuré de Grammont The Prieuré de Grammont is a small but superbly preserved rural priory which was founded by the legendary warrior King Richard the Lionheart in the year 1196. It can be discovered off the beaten track in the peaceful countryside of the Bas bocage just off the road from Chantonnay to Pouzauges in the small village of St-Prouant. In this beautiful old priory you will find a chapel along with monastic buildings, chapterhouse, refectory, kitchens and even a serving hatch and rooms for guests. More detail on Prieuré de Grammont