Liglet
Nestled amidst rolling meadows, enchanting woodlands and blossoming orchards, Liglet is a serene haven where time slows and beauty flourishes. In the summer, fields of sunflowers stretch as far as the eye can see, swaying gently under the golden French sun—a postcard-perfect landscape.
Secluded yet not remote, this quintessentially French village brims with charm and authenticity. The local bakery and mini-supermarket cater to your daily cravings for fresh croissants, fine wine and artisan cheese, while the English-run Salon de Thé offers a cosy retreat for tea and conversation. Le Sapin Vert, the village's occasional bar and restaurant, hides delightful surprises, including a tucked-away hair salon—a quaint detail that adds to Liglet's character.
Liglet is a village where life is lived warmly and openly. The locals greet you with smiles and friendly banter, whether in French, English or a joyful mix of languages. A stroll down its streets means pausing to say hello to neighbours and visitors alike, as laughter and stories flow as easily as the gentle Benaize River winding through the valley.
The surrounding countryside is nothing short of magical. Depending on the season, you may catch glimpses of red squirrels darting among the trees, graceful deer grazing in the woods or vibrant kingfishers flashing along the riverbanks. The Par les Patureaux, a network of waymarked walks, invites exploration of ancient churches, woodland paths and the playful stepping stones that cross the rivers. Herons and cranes keep silent company in the waterways, while rare hummingbird hawk moths flit through summer gardens, and lizards dart across sunlit stones.
In the heart of the village, the small square bursts into life during the warmer months. Children play in the little park while the community gathers for weekly events—arts and crafts fairs, lively brocantes and festive evenings of boules, feasting and dancing under the trees. The air is filled with laughter, music and the aroma of shared meals, as visitors are welcomed with open arms to join in the celebration.
Liglet is more than a destination; it’s an experience—a place where nature and community embrace you, inviting you to revel in its rustic charm and timeless beauty.
Beyond Liglet, there are local towns and historical cities just 20 minutes away where you can find much to do and see and all the amenities you could need.
Tour de France
In 2025, the world’s most famous cycling race, the Tour de France, will pass close to Liglet, offering an exciting opportunity to witness this legendary event. The Tour de France, celebrated as much for its breathtaking routes as for its fierce competition, is a thrilling showcase of athleticism and endurance, drawing spectators from around the globe. Each year, the race weaves through France’s diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to picturesque villages, and transforms them into a stage of drama and passion. This is more than just a sporting event—it’s a cultural spectacle filled with vibrant caravans, cheering crowds, and an electric atmosphere. Being so close to the action in 2025 means you can experience the Tour’s magic firsthand, soaking up the excitement as the peloton whizzes by and sharing in the jubilant spirit of this iconic French tradition.
Saint Savin
North-west takes you back to the 11th Century and the remarkable murals of the Abbey in Saint-Savin, a UNESCO World Heritage site occupying one entire side of the town square; the other three sides are skirted by cafes and bars. Wind your way through the streets and find the best patisserie in Nouvelle-Aquitane! There’s also a beautiful river walk along La Gartempe, a large local river, which takes in an old 13th century bridge. Saint-Savin hosts a jazz festival every July.
Chauvigny
Forty minutes away is the fabulous Medieval city of Chauvigny, a rocky spur bristling with ancient churches and fortresses overlooking the Vienne valley. With its picturesque streets, huge Saturday morning market (there are smaller, exclusively food markets also on Tuesday and Thursdays) and impressive Giants of the Sky falconry shows in the ruins of a baronial chateau, it's the most beautiful detour in France. The old town is a must-visit: the church at the top is stunning, and there are a large number of galleries and artists studios to explore.
Loire Valley
90 minutes or so north to the Loire Valley is the stunning Chenenceau Chateau where Catherine de Medici conducted her rule, as well as Amboise where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last years as the guest of the King.
Bélàbre
Liglet is on the edge of the Brenne National Park in the area known as the Country of a Thousand Ponds (pays des mille étangs) though in reality there are more than 3,000. A 15-minute drive to near-by Bélàbre takes you to a wonderfully clean and well-maintained natural swimming pond, where you can also hire bicycles and tour the local surroundings.
Montmorillon
South-west lies the ancient market town of Montmorillon – the so-called “City of Writing” – where a 15th-century bridge leads to a plethora of bookshops and other shops as well as cafés and restaurants. There are a number of lovely art and pottery galleries towards the old town, some of which offer calligraphy and other creative workshops that are popular with children. Montmorillon also has large Leclerc and Super U supermarkets on its outskirts. This is our favourite local town. It has a fantastic market each Wednesday and Saturday.
Poitiers
An hour away is Poitiers, La Vienne's charming capital, combining the bustle of a university city and the modernity of Futuroscope with a rich Medieval history. At its heart is the Gothic cathedral commissioned in the 12th century by the indomitable Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Le Blanc
North is the typically French town of Le Blanc with its grand town square which hosts markets on Saturdays. There are also numerous flea markets, cafes and shops and large LeClerc, SuperU and Lidl supermarkets.