Chizé brings together a preserved motte and local history with the Boutonne, a municipal nature area and trails through the Forêt domaniale. This offers different ways to plan your trip: you can explore historical traces in the village, take a walk in the Marais or follow a longer route through the forest. When looking for a holiday rental, it helps to decide first which of these aspects of the destination you want to shape your stay.
Local history among the motte and lanes
A motte remains at the site of the former feudal castle. It offers views of the village and the Boutonne Valley. The Château de Chizé had fortifications dating from the 12th to 13th centuries and played an important role in Poitou during the Hundred Years’ War. One specific date in the area’s history is 21 March 1373: on that day, the Battle of Chizé took place, ending in a victory for the French and Bretons over the English. The traditional houses built from local natural stone are also considered particularly remarkable. You can reach the village church via the village lanes.
The Boutonne and forest trails
The Boutonne flows through Chizé, creating a distinct landscape alongside the area’s history. The GR 36 and the GR de Pays de la Sylve d’Argenson pass through the Forêt domaniale de Chizé. This trail is 45 kilometres long, runs between Beauvoir-sur-Niort and Saleignes, and crosses the départements of Deux-Sèvres and Charente-Maritime. Before setting out, check the exact route, especially if you are planning a particular stage.
The forest of Chizé is designated as a Natura 2000 site. The former American military camp in the Forêt domaniale de Chizé is now a 2,600-hectare integral biological reserve. The forest is reported to be home to 31 mammal species, six reptile species, eight amphibian species, 78 bird species and more than 530 butterfly species. Population figures may be updated following future surveys.
The Marais and the wildlife park
Chizé’s municipal Marais is a pleasant place for a picnic or a leisurely walk. It has a children’s playground and information panels installed in summer 2015. If you are planning a visit, check local conditions and the current state of the playground.
Nearby, Zoodyssée, a wildlife park in the Forêt de Chizé, is located in Villiers-en-Bois. A horse-drawn carriage ride offered there lasts one hour and is accompanied and explained by an animal keeper. Times and booking conditions may vary; check them before making plans.
Walking between Chizé and Availles
The pedestrian connection between Chizé and Availles includes two cable ferries for crossing the Boutonne. It was inaugurated on 24 June 2025. Check local operating conditions before using it.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Maixent-Lʼécole, Azay-le-Brûlé, Fénery, Souvigné, Parthenay, Chef-Boutonne, Étusson, Rom
For the wider travel overview: Deux-Sèvres.
