Landrais: Church Heritage and Walking Trails by the Canal de Charras

Discover Landrais through two main attractions: the church’s history and furnishings, and the trails and recreational opportunities by the Canal de Charras and at the Aire Naturelle de Loisirs. The differences are clear: one offers architectural history and sculpture, the other walking routes, a marsh landscape and a pond. This lets you plan your day around culture, a particular route length or time outdoors.

The Church and the Sainte-Béatrice Altarpiece

Landrais church was built in the 13th century during the Hundred Years’ War. It is generally known as the Sainte-Béatrice Church, but is actually dedicated to Saint Peter. Its bell tower also tells part of its architectural history: the original tower was rebuilt beside the nave in 1848. So when you look at the church, both its long history and a specific architectural change stand out.

A notable work of art is the carved stone Sainte-Béatrice altarpiece, painted in bright colours. It is adorned with stone statues of Saint Paul and Saint Peter, as well as a later statue of Sainte Béatrice made of plaster. The vine motif on the altarpiece recalls viticulture, which was the most important agricultural resource when the work was created. The altarpiece has been listed in France’s Monuments historiques inventory since 7 May 1971. Its material, figures and vine decoration connect the work both to religious imagery and to the agriculture of the period in which it was created.

Walking Trails Around Landrais

A 12 km hiking route is marked out in Landrais along the Canal de Charras. The canal trail starts at the car park by the church and passes through a marsh landscape. Storks are among the birds that nest along the Canal de Charras. The route combines a defined distance with a landscape where you can take in views of the canal and its birdlife.

The Bois de Monlieu walking trail offers a different route: this 10.5 km loop runs around the village and takes about three hours to walk. It crosses the Canal de Charras trail at two points. By taking a connecting path onto that trail, you can walk a longer loop of around 18 km. The routes therefore differ in more than length: Bois de Monlieu is described as a loop around the village, while the longer option combines both trails.

Fishing and Spending Time Outdoors by the Canal de Charras

A 19,800 m fishing course also runs along the Canal de Charras. It extends from the Pont du Gué Charreau bridge on the D112 in the commune of Landrais to the Charras railway line in the commune of Saint Laurent de la Prée. Fishing regulations and conditions on the course may change, so check them before planning your fishing trip.

The Aire Naturelle de Loisirs includes a fenced, tree-lined meadow covering more than two hectares, with a pond. Fishing is possible there, and the pond is regularly stocked with fish. The grounds also include a children’s play area and a fitness trail. These facilities on land and by the pond complement the walking opportunities along the Canal de Charras. You can therefore make a route, fishing or time at the Aire Naturelle de Loisirs facilities the focus of your day.

Discover more destinations: Cherbonnières, Geay, Villars-les-Bois, Blanzay-Sur-Boutonne, Saint-Pierre-De-Juillers, Thairé, Rioux, Sousmoulins.

Back to the main travel overview: Charente-Maritime.