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Vouvant
Vendée
An artists' village in the Mélusine region
Nestled within a bend of the River Mère, behind a well-preserved fortified wall, Vouvant is steeped in the legend of Melusine, ancestor of the Counts of Lusignan, who is said to have built a castle for the village in a single night. All that remains of this structure, watching over the whitewashed houses, is the keep known as the ‘Melusine Tower’. The magnificent 11th-century Romanesque church is a must-see during your visit.
A. Lamoureux (Vendée Expansion)
les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From July 15, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2026 from 9 a.m.
Chemin de chœur
Chemin de ch?ur: An Exhibition Blending Heritage and Creativity
Discover “Chemin de chœur,” an exhibition by Hélène Menanteau on display at the Notre-Dame de Vouvant Church. Through three original works created during an artist residency in 2024, the artist explores the dialogue between heritage, memory, and contemporary art. Inspired by the imprints of the church’s choir, these works invite visitors to take a thoughtful look at this place steeped in history. An exhibition worth exploring before continuing your visit to the artisan’s workshop, located directly across from the church. The exhibition continues across from the church in the artist’s studio.
Next dates:
- From 07/15/2026 to 09/30/2026
Open every day
From July 29, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2026
Atelier d'été, Eaux de Mère
Prints and Photographs: Hélène Menanteau's Studio
Step inside Hélène Menanteau’s summer studio, located across from the Romanesque church in Vouvant. There, the artist presents a selection of prints and photographs inspiredby nature and cultural heritage, notably a series dedicated to the river “La Mère,” which is intimately linked to the village’s history. A place for exchange and discovery where you can explore his artistic world in the heart of one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
Next dates:
- From 07/29/2026 to 09/30/2026
From Sept. 9, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2026
Les secrets de Mélusine - Balade contée en journée (septembre)
Storytelling stroll with Fairy Morgane
When the water becomes a mirror and the whispers of the wind turn into legend… a silhouette appears. Dressed in costume, blending storytelling and music, the Morgane Fairy takes you along the banks of the Mère River on a timeless journey. Here, it’s not just about listening to a story… but stepping into it. As you wander along, Morgane reveals to you the fascinating destiny of the fairy Melusine: her power, her curse, and the local beliefs that say she still rests in the river’s waters. Between poetry and mystery, the legend comes to life. The route follows the water’s edge, passes through the postern gate, and gradually transforms into a truly immersive experience. Words blend with music, silences become eloquent, and everyone is invited to feel, imagine, and be moved. Heroes young and old, let yourselves be guided. Listen closely. Perhaps the river hasn’t had its final say? IN SEPTEMBER: WEDNESDAYS THE 9TH, 16TH, 23RD, AND 30TH – 4:00 PM Meeting place: In front of the Melusine Tower, Place du Bail, 85120 Vouvant Duration: 45 min All ages welcome Limited spaces—reservations required at the Tourist Office This tour is not accessible to people with limited mobility TOUR GUIDELINES: - Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing; this is an outdoor tour - Please arrive on site 10 minutes before the tour begins - Pets allowed (must be kept on a leash) - Online ticket sales close on the day of the tour, 1 hour before the tour begins
Next dates:
- 09/09/2026
Open every day - 09/16/2026
Open every day - 09/23/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 9, 2026 to Sept. 13, 2026
Salon Mélusin'Or - Vouvant Village de Peintres
Association Vouvant Village de Peintres - Salon Mélusin'Or, 6th edition
August 22 through September 13 Lionel MOYET David ROUGEAU Nef Théodelin: - Open daily from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., - Open on weekends and holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Free admission
Next dates:
- 09/09/2026
Open every day - 09/10/2026
Open every day - 09/11/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 9, 2026 to Oct. 29, 2026
Les secrets de Mélusine - Balade contée semi-nocturne
Storytelling stroll with Fairy Morgane
%C0As the sun sets, when the water becomes a mirror and the whispers of the wind turn into legend… a silhouette appears. Dressed in costume, blending storytelling and music, the Morgane Fairy takes you along the banks of the Mère River for a timeless stroll. Here, it’s not just about listening to a story… but stepping into it. As you wander, Morgane reveals to you the fascinating fate of the Fairy Melusine: her power, her curse, and the local beliefs that say she still rests in the river’s waters. Between poetry and mystery, the legend comes to life. The route follows the water’s edge, passes through the postern gate, and gradually transforms into a truly immersive experience. Words blend with music, silences become eloquent, and everyone is invited to feel, imagine, and be moved. Heroes young and old, let yourselves be guided. Listen closely. Perhaps the river hasn’t had its final say? IN JULY: MONDAYS THE 6TH, 20TH, AND 27TH—8:30 PM IN AUGUST: MONDAYS THE 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH, AND 31ST – 8:30 PM IN SEPTEMBER: FRIDAYS THE 11TH, 18TH, AND 25TH – 8:00 PM IN OCTOBER: THURSDAYS THE 15TH, 22ND, AND 29TH – 6:30 PM Meeting place: In front of the M%E9lusine Tower, Place du Bail, 85120 Vouvant Duration: 45 min–1 hr Open to all ages Limited spaces—reservations required at the Tourist Office This tour is not accessible to people with limited mobility TOUR GUIDELINES: - Wear appropriate shoes and clothing; this is an outdoor tour - Please arrive on site 10 minutes before the tour begins - Pets allowed (must be kept on a leash) - Online ticket sales close at 1:00 PM on the day of the tour
Next dates:
- 09/09/2026
Open every day - 09/11/2026
Open every day - 09/16/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 9, 2026 to Nov. 1, 2026
Jeu VR "Il faut sauver la tour Mélusine"
The Fairy of Vouvant needs your help! Brave budding Lancelots, it’s time to don your knight’s armor: the fairy Melusine, founder of Vouvant (according to legend), is waiting for you!
A FUN AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE... The tour offers an immersive exploration of the former Vouvant Castle through historical and architectural content, quizzes, mini-games, and virtual reality views. Guided by the fairy Melusine, explore the history of the Melusine Tower and discover how to prepare the castle’s defenses before the arrivalof the French king’s army! %AB Historical error! Our time traveler, the fairy Melusine, has changed the course of history. You’re now transported back to 1242 for a historical adventure with a capital “H” and a breathtaking climb where the defense of Vouvant Castle hangs in the balance! A virtual reality experience that comes at just the right time to immediately immerse you in the ranks of the fairy Mélusine’s troops on high alert. We’re counting on you! Will you be able to save the Melusine Tower? %BB ********************* Meeting place: Vouvant Tourist Office, Place du Bail, 85120 Vouvant Hours: according to the Vouvant Tourist Office’s opening hours (check the 2026 schedule) Route: Place du Bail (former castle courtyard) and inside the M%E9lusine Tower (except for the PMR kit) Duration: approximately 1 hour Age requirement: Ages 7 and up Online reservations are available up to 1 hour before the selected time slot. Other time slots are available by visiting the Tourist Office in person. Prices: Kit (4 people): 12.00? Additional kit (4 people): 6.00? PRACTICAL INFORMATION: - Arrive no later than 1 hour and 30 minutes before the Tourist Office closes - Bring your personal smartphone(s) with a fully charged battery - The tour takes place mostly outdoors - A version of the tour adapted for people with limited mobility is available - The number of people allowed in the Mélusine Tower at any one time is limited to 25 - Dogs on a leash are allowed in the Mélusine Tower HOW DOES A KIT WORK? - 1 kit is valid for up to 4 people, for 1 smartphone, and includes 1 rented Cardboard virtual reality headset Each kit includes: - the download code for the tour - rental of a Cardboard virtual reality headset - rental of a key to enter the Mélusine Tower (except for the PMR kit) The additional kit for 6.00? can only be reserved after purchasing a first kit for 12.00?.
Next dates:
- 09/09/2026
Open every day - 09/09/2026
Open every day - 09/10/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 11, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
Son et lumière « Mélusine, entre ombre et lumière »
Come and discover the legend of the Mélusine fairy with the help of a sound and light show projected onto the north portal of Vouvant church.
Video Mapping at Mélusine, Between Light and Shadow: ? In July and August, at 10:35 p.m. every night ? In September, at 10:05 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (through September 20) Free. Duration: 12 minutes.
Next dates:
- 09/11/2026
Open every day - 09/12/2026
Open every day - 09/13/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 11, 2026 to Oct. 29, 2026
Les secrets de Mélusine - Balade contée nocturne (septembre & octobre)
Storytelling stroll with Fairy Morgane
When the water becomes a mirror and the whispers of the wind turn into legend… a silhouette appears. Dressed in costume, blending storytelling and music, the Morgane Fairy takes you along the banks of the Mère River for a timeless journey. Here, it’s not just about listening to a story… but stepping into it. As you wander along, Morgane reveals to you the fascinating fate of the fairy Melusine: her power, her curse, and the local beliefs that say she still rests in the river’s waters. Between poetry and mystery, the legend comes to life. The route follows the water’s edge, passes through the postern gate, and gradually transforms into a truly immersive experience. Words blend with music, silences become eloquent, and everyone is invited to feel, imagine, and be moved. Heroes young and old, let yourselves be guided. Listen closely. Perhaps the river hasn’t had its final say? IN SEPTEMBER: FRIDAYS THE 11TH, 18TH, AND 25TH AT 8:00 PM IN OCTOBER: THURSDAYS THE 15TH, 22ND, AND 29TH AT 6:30 PM Meeting place: In front of the Melusine Tower, Place du Bail, 85120 Vouvant Duration: 1 hour Suitable for all ages Limited spaces—reservations required at the Tourist Office This tour is not accessible to people with limited mobility TOUR GUIDELINES: - Wear appropriate shoes and clothing; this is an outdoor tour - Please arrive on site 10 minutes before the tour begins - Pets allowed (must be kept on a leash) - Online ticket sales close 3 hours before the tour begins on the day of the tour
Next dates:
- 09/11/2026
Open every day - 09/18/2026
Open every day - 09/25/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 14, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2026
Salon de la Sculpture - Vouvant Village de Peintres
Association Vouvant Village de Peintres - Sculpture Show, 3rd edition
September 14–30 Maguy BERTAUD Yann BONY Bertrand CATHERINE CHRISTY Cathy COUSSEAU Denis FERY NELO Giles NIVEAU Philippe OUVRARD Nef Théodelin: - Open daily from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., - open on weekends and holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Free admission
Next dates:
- 09/14/2026
Open every day - 09/15/2026
Open every day - 09/16/2026
Open every day
The Sept. 19, 2026 from 6:15 p.m.
Les Voyages de Josie
What if you took the time to travel—without leaving your chair? Over a cup of tea or another hot drink, accompanied by a little treat, Josie takes you on a journey through the ages to share stories, anecdotes, and fascinating tales.
> July 18? What was Vouvant like back then? Let’s explore the history of Vouvant and how it has evolved since 1927. > August 8? Fashion Through the Ages From medieval dresses to today’s outfits, discover how fashion has evolved over the centuries. > August 22 – What Was Vouvant Like in the Past? A second event for those who wish to discover or rediscover the village’s history. > September 5 – But where does tea come from? From Japan to China, via Morocco and England, embark on a journey through the history and traditions of tea. > September 19? Reading: Confessions of a Hen Amid gossip, mysteries, and investigations, discover daily life in a chicken coop like you’ve never imagined! 12 per person (drinks and entertainment included). Only 10 seats per session to ensure a friendly atmosphere and small-group discussions. Reservations are now open. Don’t wait too long—spots are limited! Organized by Cœur de Rose and Le Monde de la Fée Morgane.
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
JEP - Visite guidée de Vouvant
As part of the European Heritage Days, discover the history and heritage of the ancient medieval town of Vouvant, now classified as a "Petite Cité de Caractère" and one of France?s most beautiful villages.
Guided Tour of Vouvant - Free Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20 - 11:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. From the town’s strategic location to the construction of the thousand-year-old church and the ramparts, including the famous legend of the fairy Melusine, Ludovic will take you on a captivating journey where reality and imagination intertwine. Meeting place: in front of the Vouvant Tourist Office, Place du Bail Tour departure times: 11:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. Duration: 1 hour Audience: Tour recommended for ages 7 and up Tour accessible to people with limited mobility Limited spaces: Reservations recommended at the Tourist Office (tel. 02 51 69 44 99 – online ticketing) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: - Please arrive on site with your ticket 10 minutes before the tour begins - Wear appropriate shoes and clothing; this is an outdoor tour - Minors are the responsibility of their parents - Online ticket sales close 1 hour before the tour - The Vendée Marais Poitevin Tourist Office reserves the right to modify or cancel a tour
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day - From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day - From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
JEP - Jeu VR "Il faut sauver la tour Mélusine"
The Fairy of Vouvant needs your help! Brave budding Lancelots, it’s time to don your knight’s armor: the fairy Melusine, founder of Vouvant (according to legend), is waiting for you!
A FUN AND IMMERSIVE TOUR... The tour offers an immersive exploration of the former Vouvant Castle through historical and architectural content, quizzes, mini-games, and virtual reality views. Guided by the fairy Melusine, explore the history of the Melusine Tower and discover how to prepare the castle’s defenses before the arrivalof the French king’s army! %AB Historical error! Our time traveler, the fairy Melusine, has changed the course of history. You’re now transported back to 1242 for a historical adventure with a capital “H” and a breathtaking climb where the defense of Vouvant Castle is at stake! A virtual reality experience that comes at just the right time to immediately immerse you in the ranks of the fairy Mélusine’s troops on high alert. We’re counting on you! Will you be able to save the Mélusine Tower? %BB ********************* Meeting place: Vouvant Tourist Office, Place du Bail, 85120 Vouvant Hours: according to the Vouvant Tourist Office’s opening hours (check the 2026 schedule) Route: Place du Bail (former castle courtyard) and inside the Melusine Tower (except for the PRM kit) Duration: approximately 1 hour Age requirement: Ages 7 and up Online reservations are available up to 1 hour before the selected time slot. Other time slots may be available by visiting the Tourist Office in person. Special European Heritage Days Rates (-50%): - Kit (4 people): 6.00? - Additional kit (4 people): 3.00? - Kit for people with limited mobility: 3.00? PRACTICAL INFORMATION: - Arrive no later than 1.5 hours before the Tourist Office closes - Bring your personal smartphone(s) with a fully charged battery - The tour takes place mostly outdoors - A version of the tour adapted for people with limited mobility is available - The number of people allowed in the Mélusine Tower at any one time is limited to 25 - Dogs on a leash are allowed in the Mélusine Tower HOW DOES A KIT WORK? One kit is valid for up to 4 people, for 1 smartphone, and includes 1 rented Cardboard virtual reality headset Each kit includes: - the download code for the tour - rental of a Cardboard virtual reality headset - rental of a key to enter the Mélusine Tower (except for the PMR kit) The additional kit for 3.00? can only be reserved after purchasing a first kit for 6.00?.
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day - From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day
The Sept. 20, 2026
Concert d'orgue - Journées Européennes du Patrimoine
Éline PERROTIN, horn player, teacher at the Pays de Fontenay-Vendée music school & Christine MÉTAY-SEGUI, organist in residence at Vouvant.
Robert PLANEL (Montélimar 1908 - Paris 1994) - Legend for horn and piano Vincent d?INDY (Paris 1851 - 1931) - Andante cantabile for horn and orchestra Robert SCHUMANN (Germany 1810 - 1856) - Etude en forme de canon pour piano pédalier n°2, Op. 56 - Adagio and Allegro for horn and piano, Op. 70 Camille SAINT-SAËNS (Paris 1835 - Algiers 1921) - Romance, Op. 36 for horn and orchestra Pyotr Ilyich CHAIKOVSKY (Russia 1840 ? 1893) - Horn solo from the second movement of the 5th Symphony, Op. 64 Louis VIERNE (Poitiers 1870 - Paris 1937) - Communion from the Triptych, op. 58 Maurice RAVEL (Ciboure 1875 - Paris 1937) - Pavane pour une infante défunte for piano Augustin BARIÉ (Paris 1883 - Antony 1915) - Toccata, from Trois pièces pour orgue, Op. 7 Jacques de la PRESLE (Versailles 1888 ? Paris 1969) - Le rêve du jeune faon for horn and piano Edvard GRIEG (Norway 1843 - 1907) - Ich liebe dich, melody Op. 5 No. 3 Éline PERROTIN began studying the French horn at the age of 8 with Vincent Dassonville at the Conservatoire de La Rochelle. While continuing her musical training at the Conservatoire de Nantes, she graduated with a master's degree in sociology and cultural studies. Passionate about teaching, she will be giving her first lessons in 2021 at the Angoulême Conservatoire. Based in the Vendée region, Éline PERROTIN teaches French horn at the Pays de Fontenay-Vendée intercommunity music school. A horn player with the Fanfare and Bagad of the 9th Marine Infantry Brigade in Poitiers, she is also a member of the Cornissimo quartet, the Ensemble musical de Maillé, the Orchestre sortiège and the Orchestre symphonique des Vals de Saintonge. Christine MÉTAY-SEGUI studied organ with Abel Gaborit, then titular organist at Luçon Cathedral. She then worked with André Isoir at the Conservatoire d?Orsay, where she was unanimously awarded a gold medal. She perfected her skills with other great organists such as Jean-Louis Gil at the Conservatoire d?Angers and Louis Robilliard during master classes. Christine MÉTAY-SEGUI holds a degree in musicology from the Université de Paris-Sorbonne, and is often asked to collaborate with other musicians or choirs. A member of the Notre-Dame de Fontenay-le-Comte organist team, Christine MÉTAY-SEGUI is organist-in-residence at the Vouvant organ. *************************** Free admission ? Free participation Access to the concert via the Théodelin nave / PMR access Children: concerts recommended for ages 5 and up
Next dates:
- 09/20/2026
From Sept. 21, 2026 to Sept. 23, 2026
Stage d'initiation à la mosaïque
Introductory mosaic workshop at L'Atelier d'Hélène.
Introductory mosaic course, 250 euros. Further information on 06 80 98 52 85 and at latelierdhelenemosaicetcie@gmail.com
Next dates:
- 09/21/2026
- 09/22/2026
- 09/23/2026
The Oct. 17, 2026
Concert d'orgue exceptionnel - Remise du Prix Orgue en France
A special organ concert to celebrate the presentation of the "Orgue en France" Award.
An award recognizing the construction of a new organ between 2010 and 2023, followed by its promotion through the regular organization of cultural events. Four organists will participate in this exceptional concert. Marie-Christine MÉTAY-SEGUI Organist-in-Residence at Vouvant Rheinberger (Vaduz 1839–Munich 1901): “Allegro moderato,” 1st movement of Sonata No. 16, Op. 175 Jean-Baptiste COURTOIS Honorary Professor at the Paris National Conservatory of Music Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Salzburg 1756–Vienna 1791): Adagio and Allegro for mechanical organ, K. 594 Virgile MONIN Professor at the Tarbes Conservatory, Organist-in-Residence at Vouvant Claude Debussy (Saint-Germain-en-Laye 1862–Paris 1918): Petite Suite (transcription for organ by Virgile Monin) Philippe LEFEBVRE Founding President of “Orgue en France,” Titular Organist Emeritus of Notre-Dame de Paris Improvisation *************************** Free admission—donations welcome Access to the concert via the Théodelin nave / Accessible to people with reduced mobility Children: concerts recommended for ages 5 and up
Next dates:
- 10/17/2026
From Nov. 28, 2026 to Nov. 29, 2026
Ateliers enfants - Association Au delà de l'eau
The Au delà de l'eau association organizes workshops for children.
As part of the Vouvant Christmas market. Salle des fêtes. Information on 06 59 00 49 91 and assoc.audeladeleau@gmail.com
Next dates:
- From 11/28/2026 to 11/29/2026
From Nov. 28, 2026 to Nov. 29, 2026
Concerts d'orgue - Marché de Noël
During the Vouvant Christmas Market weekend: five 15-minute mini-concerts for families, by Virgile MONIN, organ teacher at the Tarbes conservatory.
Opening times to be announced in November Free admission ? Free participation Access to the concert via the Théodelin nave / PMR access In association with the Comité des fêtes de Vouvant
Next dates:
- From 11/28/2026 to 11/29/2026
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