Lavausseau offers two distinct ways to explore local history: the tannery on the Boivre and historic architecture and artworks in the village. The “Fours à Chaux” loop also provides a longer hiking option. When planning a stay, this makes it possible to separate a cultural focus from the decision of how much time to set aside for a hike.

Tanning history on the Boivre

Tanning was already practised early on along the banks of the Boivre near Lavausseau; the first written record of this activity dates from 1600. The surviving tanning pits are part of the guided tour of the Cité des Tanneurs, but are not currently specifically highlighted. At the Cité, visitors can see the last tannery still in operation in the Vienne département; visits are subject to local access arrangements. The craft can therefore be encountered both through its historical connection with the Boivre and as part of a visit to the Cité des Tanneurs.

The Commandery, Maison des Templiers and Church of Saint-Rémi

The former commandery of the Order of the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem in Lavausseau was built as a fortress in the 12th century. A carved fireplace from the former monks’ dormitory of the commandery is listed in the supplementary register of historic monuments. Its origin in the former dormitory adds a specific detail about the site to the history of the fortress.

In the village centre, at 8 Grand’rue, stands the Maison des Templiers, a house dating from the time of the Templars. The commandery’s coats of arms, carved in stone, remain above the door. The Church of Saint-Rémi has both traditional and more modern stained-glass windows. Its central window depicts Saint Remigius; it was donated by the Bishop of Poitiers in 1871. Lavausseau thus brings together several historical points of interest: the commandery built as a fortress, a house from the Templar era and a church window with a specific date.

Hiking with different route connections

The “Fours à Chaux” walking loop is 20 kilometres long and takes about five hours on foot; shortcuts are possible. These details offer a clear indication for planning your time: the complete loop is a longer hike, while shortcuts provide shorter route options. The route passes through bocage countryside with hedgerows that are in some places centuries old, as well as along the Boivre.

The routes also have different connections to the tannery: the GRP Vouillé la Bataille long-distance trail leads to the Cité des Tanneurs in Lavausseau. The “Fours à Chaux” loop can be continued via Lavausseau and its tannery. If you choose this loop, you can use the approximate walking time as a guide and take possible shortcuts into account. Before setting out, it is advisable to check the current route.

Discover more destinations: Saix, Coulonges, Messemé, La Roche-Rigault, Quinçay, Orches, Curçay-Sur-Dive, Chauvigny

For the regional travel overview: Vienne.