Explore Secondigny through three distinct themes: forest trails, apple culture and architectural history. The ForĂŞt domaniale de Secondigny covers nearly 430 hectares and lies almost 250 metres above the surrounding area; during your stay, you can choose between nature experiences and historical or agricultural topics. When planning your routes, it is worth comparing the 4.5-kilometre botanical trail with longer marked routes and paths for exploring local wildlife and plant life.
Forest Trails and Discovery Paths
The botanical trail in the Forêt de Secondigny starts at the Maison forestière car park and forms a 4.5-kilometre loop. Along the way, it introduces the forest’s main tree species, shrubs and understorey plants, forestry techniques, and the development of the forest soils. The route therefore combines the walk itself with topics related to forest vegetation and forestry.
A blue-marked route is considerably longer at 11.6 kilometres. It includes part of the GR 364 and passes the Moulin de Battreau. You can therefore choose between a loop with botanical themes and a longer route that includes the Moulin as a waypoint. Route conditions may change, so check them before setting out.
In collaboration with La Marouette Gâtinaise, Secondigny also offers marked hiking and mountain biking routes. The Forêt de Secondigny has three discovery paths for exploring local wildlife and plant life. The green-marked loop runs around the Plan d'eau des Effres and the Bois de l'Aumônerie. This wood is close to the Plan d'eau; its shady paths and sunny avenues offer different impressions as you walk.
Leisure by the Water
The leisure area around Lac des Effres includes fitness trails for children and adults, exercise equipment, a mini football pitch, a skatepark and a BMX track. Lac des Effres is also used for fishing and fishing competitions. If you plan to fish, check the current fishing regulations in advance.
Piscine Secondigny has a heated swimming pool and a heated paddling pool. There is also a slide with a splash pool. As individual facilities may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
Apple Culture and the October Programme
The Verger conservatoire de Secondigny has more than 100 apple varieties, including 57 varieties of reinette apples. The apple is considered a symbol of Secondigny, particularly the Reinette Clochard. Fruit varieties and their local significance are among the place’s defining themes.
The association’s year-round activities at the orchard include pruning and grafting trees. If you would like to take part, check the participation requirements in advance.
Pomm’Expo has been held every October in Secondigny for more than 65 years. The nine-day programme includes a pomological exhibition and an art exhibition; both are open to the public free of charge throughout the nine days. Its recurring October date offers a specific point of reference if you would like to plan your stay around the event programme.
Church and Architectural History
The Église Sainte-Eulalie was built in the 12th century and altered in the 13th century. Its bell tower is square at the base and octagonal in the upper section. The church is partly protected as a Monument historique; it was listed on 7 February 1929. The transition from a square base to an octagonal upper section is a striking architectural detail.
Another historic structure is a second covered washhouse. It was built on Rue du Bosquet, on the banks of the Thouet.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Georges-de-Noisné, La Coudre, Saint-Germain-de-Longue-Chaume, Ardilleux, Pompaire, Les Forges, Chiché, Germond-Rouvre.
For the full travel overview: Deux-Sèvres.
