Discover Angles sur l’ Anglin

Originally published in Destination France, June 2006

Véronique Gray wanders through the small village of Angles-sur-l’Anglin, which has inspired some many painters

 

Visiting the region one weekend, we seized the opportunity of a sunny afternoon to drive to Angles-sur-l’Anglin. Recommended to us by some local friends, we had no regrets.

Located in the Vienne department about 50 km east of Poitiers, the village lies peacefully near the river of Anglin. Park your car and explore the village by foot. It does not matter if you start in the Haute Ville where the ruins of the castle are located or in the Basse ville near the bridge, you will not get lost. 

But what is there to do exactly? You could visit the ruins of what was once a medieval bishop fortress. The castle came under the hands of the English during the 100 Years War. In 1360, as a result of the Treaty of Bretigny, Guichard d’Angles had to give it up. It is a great place to go with children and you do not need a guided tour.

Plus, you will get to enjoy a fantastic view of the river ant is surroundings.

Then, when exiting, go right toward the Chapel Saint Pierre, used most of the time for painting exhibitions.  We had the chance to view the one of the landscaper Léon Pouteau, born in 1868. Once a habitant of Angles and mainly known in the region and in Belgium, where he lived for many years, Pouteau’s work deserves to be known. He portrayed the village with such talent that it made me want to purchase one of his paintings. Unfortunately, they were not for sale!

That day, I wished I knew how to paint. Every year the House Sainte Croix organizes painting holidays with professional tutors from England. Most of it is done en plein air.

Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets in the Basse ville, you will make it to a square with a café. For a moment, enjoy this relaxing Provencal flair. Antique shops are there for those looking for old treasures.

Angles-sur-l’Anglin is also the perfect destination for walking with your family along the river but put comfy shoes on!

• Angles sur l'Anglin
• castle
• France
• painters
• Vienne