Explore La Roche-Posay: thermal and medieval town

The unmissable, Living History

Free activities
All year round
©Agence Zébrelle - Bastien Sauve

The small town of La Roche-Posay is world famous for its thermal water with many virtues for the skin. It is also a pretty little medieval town, with many vestiges to discover during your walk. Situated at 1 hour drive from Poitiers et 20 minutes from Chatellerault , it takes advantage of its quiet location in the countryside, close to very pretty villages as Angles-sur-l'Anglin .

Visit La Roche-Posay, medieval side

In troubled times, protecting themselves from invasions was among the major concerns of the inhabitants of this territory located on the borders of Poitou, Berry and Touraine. They then took advantage of a rocky spur, with a clear view facilitating defense possibilities, to set up a stronghold there. This is therefore where the town developed from the 10thnd century around keep, the ramparts, the castle (now disappeared) and church.

In the heart of the city, the Bourbon gate, surrounded by two turrets, remains one of the rare vestiges of the medieval enclosure. The machicolations and arrow slits confirm the defensive role that this gate played in ancient times. In the narrow streets typical of this period, stone houses, mullioned windows, dovecotes, confer a incomparable charm on the ride.

The passage through the Notre-Dame church is a must. Built between the XInd and the XIVnd century, its defensive architecture is atypical to say the least. Push the door to discover the 17th century sculpturesnd century which adorn the interior and the colorful stained glass windows of the 20thnd century letting in a soft and subdued light. 

The unmissable Dungeon of La Roche-Posay

Place to discover the Dungeon of La Roche-Posay. Built in tufa stone, it rises to 23 meters. With such dimensions, it's impossible to miss it, it overlooks the entire village! Inside, two unexpected experiences await you.

In the Hall of Echoes, the walls speak... Sit in a corner and whisper something. The following ? We let you discover it, only clue, this room bears its name beautifully.

In the same room, place at 360° show. Optical illusions follow one another on the vault of the room: starry sky, collapsing dungeon, the projected images carry you away in a mysterious whirlwind over the centuries.

Extend the walk with fun visits

The La Roche-Posay Tourist and Hydrotherapy Office offers guided tours through the streets of La Roche-Posay. Take the opportunity to discover well-kept secrets at each stage of the ride. For followers of Tèrra Aventura, you will be delighted with a route to explore the city from the "spa city" point of view. To do this, look on the 100% free application for the course “A velvet water bath”.

Also enjoy the nature that surrounds La Roche-Posay with a forest bath, a ride on electric scooters, a canoe-kayak outing or cani-rando with Latitude Nordique.

Treat yourself to a moment of sweetness

Thermal water from this place, renowned worldwide for its benefits for the skin, offers a delicate sensation, like a caress. Enriched with silicon, it is beneficial for all those who immerse themselves in it. 

The spa offers treatment rituals using the famous La Roche-Posay brand, a first in this institute! Located in the heart of the spa and medieval town, the La Roche-Posay Spa offers you a sensory experience to fully enjoy. Many treatments are offered to target specific needs such as fatigue, stress, signs of aging, detoxification and vitality.