Two clearly signposted circular routes, the Romanesque Église Saint-Benoît and the monthly Marché de Beaulieu offer different starting points for a stay in Beaulieu-sous-Parthenay. The walking times help you plan a hike, while the market gives you a specific date to consider. The history of the church and the château grounds are other points of interest.
Circular routes with clear timings
The green-marked N3 circular route is 8 km long and is described as an easy hike taking two hours. It starts at the car park on Place des Cerisiers, next to the town hall. The route follows small, shady roads and sunken lanes alongside the La Viette river.
The blue-marked N4 circular route is 8.1 km long, with a stated duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes. It is described as an easy hike through sunken lanes, woods and small, shady roads. Compared with N3, it is 100 metres longer, and the stated walking time is 15 minutes longer. Before setting off on either route, check local trail conditions; on N4, the signage and conditions on the ground may also change.
Church and château history
The Église Saint-Benoît dates back to the late 11th century and was restored in 1643. Inside are several notable capitals and a statue of Saint Blaise dating from 1705. The information therefore spans the church’s origins and a dated feature, with the restoration providing another historical reference.
The Château de la Guyonnière is surrounded by moats and has four corner towers. It has been protected as a historic monument under a decree dated 4 March 1986; the designation includes the château, including its fireplaces and moats.
The remains of the Château de la Meilleraye have been protected as a historic monument under a decree dated 18 March 1930. The complex formed a quadrangle surrounded by water-filled moats; only the cellars of the outbuildings remain. Its main construction phase is attributed to the 17th century. The Guyonnière is notable for its towers and protected features, while the Meilleraye is distinguished by its layout and the surviving cellars of the outbuildings.
Wetland and market
A municipal wetland area with biodiversity features has been created opposite the town hall and school. It includes a herb spiral, a willow hut and a diverse bank-side hedge. Alongside the walking routes and historic buildings, a dedicated biodiversity area is therefore another distinctive feature of the town.
The Marché de Beaulieu is a farmers’ and crafts market. It takes place on the first Friday of each month from 5 p.m. under the market halls and in the surrounding area. If you would like to include the market in your stay, check the specific date locally in advance to make sure it fits your travel plans.
Discover more destinations: Limalonges, Saint-Pardoux, Saint-Maixent-Lʼécole, Pioussay, Airvault, Paizay-Le-Chapt, Messé, Le Retail.
For the overview of the wider area: Deux-Sèvres.
