So, in researching daytrips around Tours and Poitier I stumbled across Montmorillon. A medieval village filled with bookshops AND the birthplace of the macaron...how am I just now hearing about this place?? :-) In all seriousness, has anyone else visited Montmorillon and can offer thoughts, impressions, etc.? And any other "hidden gems" like this that are accessible via direct train connections (no car and would rather skip buses if possible) from Tours or Poitier?
Posted by
Paris
6901 posts
A friend used to teach in Montmorillon, and frankly it had little going for it 10 years ago. The old town, seen from the bridge, is a pretty postcard, but that is about it as far as I remember! If you have never been to a small town in France, it might be interesting, but otherwise it is not particularly remarkable compared to dozens of others.
From Tours, I would recommend Loches instead (by train, or bus at certain times). Very cute town and impressive castle/palace complex.
From Poitiers, definitely La Rochelle - it's 90 minutes by train, but it is really worth it.
Posted by
Loire Valley
761 posts
I live about an hour from Montmorillon, and for me it's just somewhere I occasionally have to drive through.
I have never noticed it as being particularly medieval, maybe a couple of old buildings around Église Notre-Dame. Maybe it's because everywhere has medieval buildings that I haven't noticed.
As for macaron.. there are many places that claim it as their own, including a town near Tours that predates the Montmorillon claim by 900 years. Most historians agree it's Italian and came to France with Catherine de Médicis' cooks.
I agree about Loches. A good Wednesday and Saturday market, and more history than you can shake a stick at.
Posted by
OP
765 posts
Thank you both. Now I'm wondering if Montmorillon just hired a good public relations firm! I appreciate the alternative suggestions and we'll definitely visit Loches. But I'm also thinking that maybe we don't need so many daytrips. Tours and Poitier look pretty impressive on their own. Much will depend on weather and stamina when the time comes... Thanks again!