Attractions and Places To See around Clion - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Clion include a variety of historical sites and natural points of interest. This region offers numerous opportunities for exploration, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Visitors can find historical castles, ancient chapels, and unique bridges, reflecting the area's rich past. The landscape around Clion also provides settings for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Clion
- The most popular attractions is Pons Donjon, a castle that is a…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Pons Donjon
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Jonzac Castle
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Saint Paul Chapel
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Donkey bridge
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Saint-André Church of Clion
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Tips from the Community
You can also spend a night at the Saint James House B&B, quality guest rooms, swimming pool and view of the Donjon 🙂
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The keep of Pons is located in the commune of Pons in the French department of Charente-Maritime in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. This tower is the old keep of the castle of Pons. 33 m high, it is visible from a long distance and is the symbol of the city. With the Saint-Gilles chapel, the remains of the ramparts and the main building, it constitutes the remains of the ancient castle of Pons.
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This Templar chapel was built in the 12th century and renovated in 1706. It was acquired in 1949 by Mr. and Mrs. Frédéric, the current owners, who completely restored it. Since 1986, on August 15 of each year, a mass has been celebrated there.
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This Romanesque church was built in the 12th century, but all that remains of the original building is the bell tower. It was modified in the 15th and 16th centuries. A Renaissance style facade replaces the original facade and the square bell tower was built in the 12th century.
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Dating from the Gallo-Roman period, the so-called "Pas de la Mule" bridge is located on the Seugne. Made up of 6 blocks of stone, it linked the village of Lansac to a water mill called "la cité". It also allowed the passage of animals transporting cereals and flour between the watermill, in the commune of Saint Georges Antignac, and the windmills of Les Groies in Clion.
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For people with a head for heights, it is worth climbing the 30-metre-high tower. There is also a museum in the building. It is one of the 'Monument historique' in France.
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Charming little piece of nature. The chapel (above) can be visited when it is open. A skeleton welcomes you but don't worry, it is very discreet!
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In 1073, the castle already exists; the first known lord was Guillaume de la Rochandry at the beginning of the 12th century. The 1449 inscription on the castle attests to its reconstruction following the destruction caused by the Hundred Years War. In 1505, Jean de Sainte-Maure, lord of Jonzac, founded the Carmelite monastery on the remains of an old chapel dedicated to Saint Nicolas. The cloister was built in 1657. The young Louis XIV, the Queen Mother and Mazarin stayed at the castle in 1659. The castle remained at Sainte-Maure until the end of the 17th century, then passed through marriage to Espardes de Lussan, which transformed the fortress in beautiful stately home with neat ornamentation and guard until the Revolution. Currently the north wing of the castle houses the buildings of the Town Hall (restored in the 19th century), and the south wing, those of the sub-prefecture. The cloister was restored between 1976 and 1978, and now houses a cultural center, with exhibition halls and an archaeological museum. The towers, postern and fountain in the basement date from the 12th century. Of the old feudal castle, only the postern and an isolated tower remain, connected to the main body by a large hall. The moat in front of the drawbridge was filled was filled in the 19th century. It was reopened at the beginning of the 21st century. The imposing gatehouse is marked 1549 and therefore dates from the 16th century, a period of work including the north-west tower, while the south-west tower, of a smaller diameter, is from the 17th century. The towers flanking the postern have retained their defenses. At each, the loopholes have been retained or enlarged. Stone stairs serve each floor and access the walkway. This passage seems to have been discovered, as evidenced by the gargoyles. The crenellation includes machicolations with archers in the middle of the merlons. The slate roofs are high pepperboxes on the towers, and a curious set with two sides connecting two pepperboxes for the gatehouse The fountain located in the basement of the sub-prefecture, has a niche and a niche frame decorated with sculptures imitating stalactites. Carved mask. The fountain was probably built by Léon de Sainte-Maure, Count of Jonzac, who enlarged and embellished the castle in the middle of the 12th century. In a former courtyard of the castle, a theater was built in the 19th century. It is a round building with approximately 300 seats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Clion?
The region around Clion is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Pons Donjon, a 33-meter-high medieval defense tower dating back to 1187. Another significant historical site is Jonzac Castle, which features a cloister, exhibition halls, and an archaeological museum, with parts dating to the 12th century. Don't miss the 12th-century Templar Saint Paul Chapel, a remarkable renovated site, or the Romanesque Saint-André Church of Clion, also from the 12th century.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Clion area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Pons Donjon is considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience. Additionally, the Saint-André Church of Clion is also listed as family-friendly. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the Donkey bridge area is a green site conducive to fishing and relaxation, furnished with tables, perfect for a family outing.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Clion's attractions?
The Clion area offers various outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling. You can find several routes, including easy and moderate options. For hiking, consider the 'Donkey Bridge and Saint Paul Chapel Loop' or the 'Saint-André Church of Clion – Saint Paul Chapel loop from Clion'. If you're into gravel biking, there are routes like 'Gravel loop from Jonzac' or 'Great passage through the forest'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as 'Climbing spots loop from Clion-sur-Seugne'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and MTB trails guide for Clion.
Are there any easy walks or trails suitable for all abilities near Clion?
Yes, there are easy walking options available. For instance, the 'Saint-André Church of Clion – Saint Paul Chapel loop from Clion' is an easy hiking route covering about 5.2 km. Another easy option is the 'Donkey bridge loop from Mosnac', which is around 2.9 km. These routes are great for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the local scenery and historical sites.
Where can I find unique historical structures like ancient bridges in Clion?
You can discover the unique Donkey bridge, also known as “Pas de la Mule”. This bridge dates from the Gallo-Roman period and is made up of six stone blocks, located on the Seugne river. It's a fascinating site with a local legend about its worn stones, believed to be from repeated passages of a miller and his donkey.
What are some of the oldest structures or ruins to see around Clion?
The region boasts several ancient structures. The Donkey bridge is a notable example, dating back to the Gallo-Roman period. Both Jonzac Castle and Saint-André Church of Clion have parts that date back to the 12th century, showcasing medieval architecture. The Saint Paul Chapel is also a 12th-century Templar chapel.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Clion?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical context and the well-preserved sites. For example, the Pons Donjon is admired for its imposing height and historical significance as a symbol of the city. The Saint Paul Chapel is noted as a 'remarkable site' known throughout the region, offering a charming piece of nature and history. The Donkey bridge is enjoyed as a green site for relaxation and fishing.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the Clion area?
Yes, the Pons Donjon is categorized as a viewpoint. Its 33-meter height makes it visible from a long distance and likely offers good views of the surrounding area. The Donkey bridge area, located on the Seugne river, is described as a 'green site conducive to fishing and relaxation', suggesting a pleasant natural setting.
Can I visit the Saint Paul Chapel, and what makes it unique?
The Saint Paul Chapel is a unique 12th-century Templar chapel, privately owned and meticulously restored. It's known for its historical significance and the fact that a mass is celebrated there annually on August 15th. Inside, you can even find a skeleton on display, adding to its distinct character. It's considered a remarkable site in the region.
What is the history behind Jonzac Castle?
Jonzac Castle has a long and complex history, with records indicating its existence as early as 1073. It underwent reconstruction after the Hundred Years War, as evidenced by a 1449 inscription. The castle has seen various transformations over centuries, including the addition of a cloister in 1657. Today, parts of it house the Town Hall and a cultural center with exhibition halls and an archaeological museum, preserving its rich past.
Are there any specific tips for visiting Pons Donjon?
The Pons Donjon is a prominent medieval defense tower. A useful tip for visitors is that you can commit the tower for free if you spend the night in the pilgrim's hostel, which is well-maintained and costs around €8.69. It's a significant symbol of the city, visible from afar.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Clion?
While the area is rich in historical sites, you can also enjoy natural settings. The Donkey bridge is situated on the Seugne river, offering a 'green site conducive to fishing and relaxation'. This spot provides a pleasant natural environment to unwind and enjoy the riverside scenery.
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