South of Paris and nestled in the Loire Valley, La Roche-Posay is the perfect place for a french holiday.
The TGV direct train line from Paris takes a little over one hour to Chatellerault, less than 20 minutes from the château, where a car service can be arranged. Tours and Poitiers airports are an hour away.
You might recognize the name of the town because of the well known brand of beauty products with the same name and founded in the town nearly 100 years ago. Now owned by the L'Oreal group, the products of La Roche-Posay are famous in almost every country in the world.
Its reputation as a spa town, founded more than 350 years ago, is one of the many reasons La Roche-Posay attracts visitors. Recognized as being of public utility by the French government in 1869, it became the first spa in Europe entirely dedicated to dermatological ailments. Thousands of people come each year for the healing properties of the waters.
In the centre of La Roche-Posay you'll find several historical monuments of interest, including the fortified roman style church, dating from the 11th century. The bell tower is the only part of the original structure that still remains, while the medieval defensive structure added in the 15th century can best be seen on the north side of the church.
There are many things to do in this charming town just a short walk from the château.
Just a short from the château, experience the excitement of an afternoon horse race on the La Gâtinière Hippodrome from May through September. The racecourse which is classified in first category nationally includes a grass trotting track, flat track, and obstacle course.
The banks of Creuse river and its recreational area are ideal for picnicking, as the thermal park, and a haven of nature in the city. The peaceful landscapes of bucolic hills, flower-filled prairies, lakes and beautiful forests crossed by hiking trails will delight lovers of nature, and relaxation.
Indulge yourself with a day at the spa! Even if you are not here for spa treatment the extensive gardens of the Parc Thermal are open to the public and are well worth exploring, with several interesting water features and planting arrangements to admire.
The Casino Partouche La Roche-Posay welcomes you with its games room, its restaurant and its auditorium! The 150 slot machines, electronic English roulette, electronic blackjack and traditional games will immerse you in the magical world of games.
Completely renovated in 2022, Golf La Roche-Posay is a great place to enjoy a day outside in the sun. Complete with clubhouse, golf shop, bar, restaurant, and reception hall and located just five minutes from the château.
The Loire is home to a beautiful built heritage, namely châteaux, religious buildings, medieval villages and Saint-Etienne, a City of Art and History. Be sure to take time out to explore the area with a guided tour or on your own.
Experience the exciting attractions at one of the many theme parks in the area. Futuroscope is a one hour drive and full of rides and original attractions. Renaissance castle is world famous for its gardens. Or if you want to go big you can drive to Disneyland Paris, just three hours away.
There are a number of divine restaurants and bars just steps away from the château. Let our expert staff assist you with reservations!
There's much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know.