Attractions and activities

Climbing gym and multifunctional hall for events, concerts and shows in Niort.

With views over the medieval town of Chauvigny, VéloRail is a surprising cross between Poulidor and the French railway: four wheels, two pedalers and a rear bench, all running on a former railway line.

Within the Bishops’ Castle, large-scale bird of prey shows featuring eagles, falcons, owls, eagle owls, storks, parrots, etc.

A true sanctuary for birds (75 species across 8 hectares) to discover on foot, by boat or canoe. Locavore restaurant. Seasonal workshops (keeper for a day, photography).

Former medieval town. To see: the Silver Mines of the Frankish Kings, the Romanesque Triad of Saint-Savinien, Saint-Pierre and Saint-Hilaire (listed by UNESCO as part of the Way of St James), churches, washhouses and arboretum.

Explore the museum, discovery trail and an exceptional megalithic site in Europe. Nestled in a natural setting, the museum offers a journey into Prehistory, illustrating the evolution of humanity from its origins to the Neolithic period. The site reveals impressive tumuli, exceptionally well preserved and accessible.

Built on the site of a former abbey, in Brutalist style (20th century), housing rich archaeological collections (from Prehistory to the early Middle Ages) and a fine arts collection (14th to 20th centuries), including sculptures by Camille Claudel.

Key highlights include the Keep of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Baltard-style market halls, and the banks of the Sèvre Niortaise with Port Boinot, combining port, garden and cultural venue.