The thermal spa resort of La Roche Posay - Roche-Posay (La)

This small town has a big reputation. The water here is rich in selenium, silica and calcium, essential for beautiful, younger-looking skin.

Legend has it that a knight discovered the source of La Roche Posay in the 14C. Stopping to drink, his horse came out cured of its eczema. The first Thermal Centre here was opened in 1905.

Today, la Vienne is proud of its European capital of thermal dermatology and anti-ageing treatments, and all year round there's plenty to do: casino, golf course, riding centre, cinema, exhibitions and Les Vacances de Monsieur Haydn chamber music festival in September.