It is well worth stopping off at these three towns that are brimming with local history and beautiful landscapes, from ruins of ancient churches, to medieval town centres and picturesque river views.
Chatellerault
Up-and-coming Chatellerault, just north of Poitiers, is reached via the A10 and/or the D910 which form a corridor between the two cities.
Grand Atelier, Museum of Art and IndustryTHOMAS JELINEK
In 1819, Chatellerault was chosen as the site for a state-owned arms factory because it was already home to metal-workers. Production started with knives, swords and sabres, and evolved into gun-making.
When the Manufacture d'Armes (known locally as 'La Manu') closed in 1968, some buildings were demolished, others turned into training centres, an ice rink was constructed and a car museum was opened. With dozens of bicycles, scooters, motorbikes and cars from all eras of the last century, it is a magnet for anyone interested in the history of French transport.
There is also a small section given over to the history of the arms factory, and another spotlighting the life of Rudolphe Salis, who was born in Chatellerault and who established the famous Chat Noir cabaret in Montmartre.
Should you feel the need for a medieval tipple or some jewellery, stop off at L'Atanyere boutique in the Place du Donjon. This is also the place to buy a kirtle, a wooden sword, or even a rough shift.
