There are three specific ways to explore Soussac: the natural landscape of Butte de Launay, its architectural history, and tastings featuring saffron and wine. At more than 140 metres, the hill is the highest point in Entre-deux-Mers; the Maison forte de Launay stands at its foot. The historic village centre also features Saint-Hilaire Church and a bronze bell classified as a protected historic object. Le Safran de Launay and Château Piconat add visits about saffron cultivation and a cellar tour with wine tasting. This makes it possible to explore Soussac through very different interests: nature, history and local produce.

Nature at Butte de Launay

At more than 140 metres, Butte de Launay is the highest point in Entre-deux-Mers. A one-kilometre trail runs through the area. Habitats rare in Gironde include dry grassland, juniper heath, scrub and heat-loving woodland. These terms describe different types of vegetation, from dry terrain to wooded areas where warm conditions are favourable. For planning, the one-kilometre trail gives a clear indication of the distance; the rare habitat types are what make the site distinctive. The defined trail length and the hill’s ecological character therefore offer two different reasons to explore this natural area.

Architectural History and Heritage

The Maison forte de Launay stands at the foot of the hill. The present-day building dates from the 14th and 15th centuries; this dating refers to the current structure. Saint-Hilaire Church in Soussac dates from 1290, with later work carried out in the 15th and 19th centuries. A bronze bell in Soussac church was cast in 1767 and classified as a protected historic object in 1942. These dates tell different parts of the village’s history: the dating of the present-day house, the church’s origins and later work, and the history and protected status of a single object. For those interested in culture, the contrast between the medieval building phases and the story of the bell offers a tangible way to distinguish the different periods.

Discover Saffron and Wine

Le Safran de Launay offers guided visits about saffron cultivation, permaculture and biodynamics, as well as its earth hut. The subjects range from growing saffron to other agricultural approaches, with the earth hut as an additional topic on the visit. Visitors can taste saffron threads, syrups, jams, caramel products, oils and vinegars. Alongside saffron, the selection includes sweet products as well as oils and vinegars, adding a culinary dimension to the visit. Le Safran de Launay welcomes visitors year-round by appointment. Arrange your visit before travelling.

Château Piconat offers a cellar tour and wine tasting in Soussac, preferably by appointment. This makes it different from Le Safran de Launay: here the focus is on the cellar and wine tasting, while the latter centres on saffron cultivation, permaculture, biodynamics and tastings. Plan your visit preferably by appointment and confirm the arrangement before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Philippe-D'aiguille, Le Barp, Saint-Sauveur, Petit-Palais-Et-Cornemps, Pessac, Moulis-En-Médoc, Saint-Quentin-De-Caplong, Lalande-De-Pomerol

For the broader travel guide: Gironde.