FONTENAY LE COMTE, JEWEL OF THE VENDÉE
Discover it during your stay in Fontarabie
For an exotic stay in the Vendée combining nature, sport and cultural visits, discover Fontenay-le-Comte at the gateway to the Marais Poitevin. The former capital of the Bas-Poitou region, classified as a town of art and history, Fontenay is also one of the "Most Beautiful Detours of France". Take advantage of your stay at the Fontarabie hotel to discover Fontenay le Comte and its undeniable assets.
The remains of the Middle Ages in Fontenay le Comte
Since the Middle Ages, Fontenay le Comte has been one of the most prosperous towns, as shown by the fortifications built around the town and the construction of the Baron fortress in the 11th century. The latter was largely destroyed during the Franco-English conflicts. Transformed into a romantic park by Jean Baron shortly after the French Revolution, the Baron Park will be a pleasant walk during your stay in Fontenay le Comte.
Fontenay, a Renaissance town
Fontenay experienced a major boom during the Renaissance period, with the construction of a large number of magnificent buildings, including the Château de Terre-Neuve, several town houses (Hôtel des évêques de Maillezais, de la Sénéchaussée et de Pervinquière) and the Fountain of the Four Tias by Lionel de la ReauThe latter was built in 1542. The latter was built in 1542, its bas-relief represents a fountain where two unicorns are drinking, emblem of the city. The Place Bélliard and its beautiful arcades includes six houses and buildings listed as historical monuments, not far from the Fontarabie hotel.
Discovering the culture of the Vendée
To find out more about the heritage of the South Vendée, visit the Fontenay Museum, located in the former presbytery of the Notre-Dame church, where you can admire a collection of Gallo-Roman glassware. The Billaud House with its fine architecture regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions. Your stay in Fontenay-le-Comte will also be an opportunity to discover the specialities of the Vendée, including Préfou and Farci Vendéens, eels and the famous mojettes, a dry white bean that is eaten with the traditional Vendée ham.
The Château de Terre-Neuve, a jewel of the Renaissance
Built in 1580 for the Grand Provost of the Connétablie de France, Nicolas Rapin, the Château de Terre-Neuve bears witness to the economic and intellectual importance of the Bas-Poitou region at that time. Many famous guests, including the Duke of Sully and Agrippa d'Aubigné, stayed within its walls. The imposing fireplace decorated with alchemical symbols and the carved stone coffered ceilings make it one of the most beautiful châteaux in the Vendée.
Your stay at the Fontarabie hotel in the heart of Fontenay le Comte will be an opportunity to experience a real journey back in time and discover its prime architectural heritage.
More information on Fontenay le Comte and the Vendée :
Tourism Sud Vendée : www.tourisme-sudvendee.com
Fontenay le Comte site: www.ville-fontenaylecomte.fr
Newfoundland Castle: www.chateau-terreneuve.com
The Marais Poitevin: www.marais-poitevin-vacances.com
