The Le Tré de Saint Flix boucle n°3 circular hike starts and ends in Sillars, passes through remarkable limestone grasslands, and is clearly defined as 10.8 kilometres and 2 hours and 30 minutes. The focus on hiking is complemented by seasonal nature themes and a layered history of architecture. This lets you choose Sillars based on the interests you want to shape your stay.
Nature at Étang de Clossac
Étang de Clossac in Sillars is classified as a natural area of ecological, faunal and floristic interest (ZNIEFF). Its birdlife varies with the seasons: in winter and during the spring and autumn migrations, the pond attracts numerous migratory waterbirds, especially geese and ducks. Waders also stop there. The site is also one of the few places in the region where species such as cranes occur. The pond is also a preferred breeding site for great crested grebes, warblers, lapwings and curlews.
Other nature sites and plant habitats
Bois de L’Hospice is protected under the Habitats Directive and designated as a ZICO. Bois des Chirons lies near the eastern edge of Forêt de Lussac, in a valley through which a stream runs. Numerous martagon lilies grow there; when the site was discovered in the early 1980s, nearly 1,000 specimens were counted. Part of Butte de Lalœuf borders Sillars. This protected site, with dolomitic limestone soils and dry grasslands, is home to flora that is rare in Poitou.
A circular route with a clearly stated duration
The Le Tré de Saint Flix boucle n°3 circular hike starts and ends on Route de La Bastière in Sillars. It is a moderately difficult circular route covering 10.8 kilometres, with a stated duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and passes through remarkable limestone grasslands. These details answer different planning questions: the distance describes the length of the route, the duration gives the time needed for the hike, and the difficulty rating indicates the level of challenge. When planning your day, you can consider the hike’s duration separately from the time you set aside for other activities.
Architectural history and tradition
The main masonry of the nave of Église Saint-Félix dates from the 11th century; the façade and bell tower date from 1875, and the choir from 1890. This creates a contrast in time between the medieval masonry and the parts added in the late 19th century. The façade and bell tower are dated 15 years earlier than the choir.
Chapelle de Cherchillé is dedicated to Saint Mark. The Font-Malade spring is located nearby and was traditionally visited by pilgrims. According to folk tradition, its waters could heal various ailments. Here, a longstanding pilgrimage tradition complements the religious dedication—a different cultural and historical focus from the dated architectural elements of Église Saint-Félix.
For planning your trip, the main difference is the timeframe: the circular hike can be assessed by distance and duration, while waterbird sightings at Étang vary with the seasons. The cultural sites, by contrast, offer architectural history and religious tradition as their main themes.
Discover more destinations: Lathus-Saint-Rémy, Saint-Macoux, Saint-Rémy-sur-Creuse, Saint-Benoît, Gouex, Le Vigeant, Liglet, Béruges.
Go to the main travel overview: Vienne.
