The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars

"The Way of the Cross leads through the streets of our daily lives. We, Lord, usually walk in the opposite direction to yours. Just like that, we might see your face, meet your gaze. We walk our usual paths, and you come toward us. Your eyes look into our hearts. Then we hesitate to continue as if nothing had happened. We can turn around, look at you, follow you. We can place ourselves in your path and sense that it is better to change direction. (…) The Way of the Cross is the prayer of those on the move. It interrupts our usual paths so that we can pass from weariness to joy. It is true that the way of Jesus costs us something: in this world where everything is calculated, generosity has a high price. But in dedication, everything blossoms anew: a city divided into factions and torn by conflict moves toward reconciliation; a withered religiosity rediscovers the fruitfulness of the promises." God's; even a heart of stone can be transformed into a heart of flesh. We need only listen to the invitation, "Come and follow me!" (cf. Mark 10:21), and trust in that loving gaze." (Prayer for the Stations of the Cross with the Holy Father, Pope Francis, Good Friday 2024)

The Church of Saint-Généroux is a site well worth a visit during a hike. It dates back to the 10th century and is considered one of the oldest churches in France, as it features pre-Romanesque architecture found nowhere else. The church is located on the banks of the Thouet River. You can also admire the Romanesque bridge (13th century).

Dating from the 13th century, at the foot of the city ramparts, this bridge ultimately offers the best view of the Château de Thouars.

Without the characteristic wings - which used to capture the power of the wind to set the heavy millstones in motion - the once proud windmill, which was certainly impressive at the time, is missing an essential architectural element. From a distance, the observer can see its modern successors: within sight of the former windmill, the slender towers and turbine blades of a modern wind farm, which is used to generate electricity, rise into the sky.

In the proverbial "good old days" of centuries past, this (former) windmill, standing in a very prominent position in the vast landscape, must have made a deep impression on the viewer. However, this changed a long time ago: the no longer intact tower stump is missing the wings, precisely those elements that were once so fundamental to the appearance of those four-armed giants (at least that is what the character "Don Quixote" invented by Miguel Cervantes thinks in one of the famous Spanish author's bizarre stories).

The Chouans bridge on the Thouet is a medieval bridge which crosses the Thouet river between Thouars and Saint-Jean-de-Thouars. The bridge was fortified in the 15th century and witnessed the passage of the Vendée army during the French Revolution. You can admire the architecture of the bridge which has two arches and triangular spouts on the piers. You can also enjoy the view of the river and the castle of the Dukes of La Trémoille on the hill. The bridge is classified as a historic monument and has been restored several times.

The church of Saint-Généroux is a historical and cultural site which is worth a visit during a walk in Deux-Sèvres. Dating from the 10th century, it is considered one of the oldest churches in France and features remarkable pre-Romanesque architecture. You can admire its sculpted capitals, its three-bay triumphal arch and its cul-de-four apse. The church is located on the banks of the Thouet, a peaceful river which offers a pleasant natural setting for a walk. You can also enjoy the 13th century Romanesque bridge which spans the river and offers a beautiful view of the church and the surrounding landscape.

The Moulin de Montguimier is a 12th century mill that belonged to the monks of Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes. You can start your hike from the parking lot of the Saint-Généroux church, a remarkable example of Romanesque art. Cross the bridge over the Thouet and follow the yellow markings. You will pass an old lime kiln and enjoy the view of the valley and hills. You can also picnic by the river and relax in the shade of the walnut trees.