The best walks and hikes around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes
4.4
(47)
223
hikers
32
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes offers diverse landscapes within the hilly terrain of the Haute Saintonge region. The area features rolling countryside, dense woods, and wine-growing bocage, alongside the Maine and Seugne valleys. Hikers can explore paths through vineyards, agricultural fields, and around serene lakes such as the Étang des Bénissons. The natural environment is further enriched by nearby forests like the Forêt de la Lande and the Forêt de Pons.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.2
(10)
57
hikers
5.17km
01:21
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
30
hikers
4.73km
01:12
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
5.83km
01:30
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
3.19km
00:50
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
7.37km
01:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovers of old stones and countryside: go for it!! Possibility to shorten or increase the size of the circuit easily. At sunrise, a treat!!
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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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The Seugne crosses a single department, in this case that of Charente-Maritime, watering thirty-six communes and seven cantons. The Seugne has its source in the canton of Montlieu-la-Garde, then crosses the cantons of Montendre, Jonzac, Saint-Genis-de-Saintonge, Pons, Gémozac and, finally, confluences in the canton of Saintes-Est. The Seugne has eighteen tributaries or referenced arms. The old forms of the name Seugne are flumen Soenna around 1100, Sonye in 1280, la Soyngna in 1322, la Soyngnhe in 1354, aqua Soynnie in 1363, Souaigne in 1494. The current pronunciations, Seugne and Souègne, are based on a medieval form Soïgne, which the scribes of the 13th and 14th centuries had difficulty transcribing. According to Duguet, a more recent spelling, Seuigne was misread and interpreted Sévigne in the 19th century.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes?
There are over 30 hiking trails available around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes, offering a variety of experiences. The komoot community has explored these routes more than 200 times, highlighting the region's diverse terrain.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in this region?
The Saint-Simon-De-Bordes area, nestled in the Haute Saintonge region, features a rich tapestry of landscapes. You'll encounter rolling countryside, dense woods, and distinctive wine-growing bocage. Trails often lead through vineyards, agricultural fields, and along the Maine and Seugne valleys, with views of small calcareous hills and serene lakes like the Étang des Bénissons.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes?
The hiking trails around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to picturesque vineyards, and the well-maintained paths that offer both easy and moderate options.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, the region is well-suited for easy walks. Out of the 32 available routes, 19 are classified as easy. An example is the Roman-Era Dam loop from Jonzac, which is an easy 4.5 km path, or the Chemin de ronde loop from Jonzac, a shorter 2.9 km route.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Saint-Simon-De-Bordes area?
The hiking routes around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes are primarily easy to moderate. There are no trails classified as difficult in this guide, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxed to moderately strenuous walks through varied landscapes.
Can I find circular hiking routes near Saint-Simon-De-Bordes?
Yes, many of the trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Jonzac Castle – Jonzac Castle loop from Jonzac and the Étang d'Allas loop from Agudelle, which takes you through varied countryside.
Are there any trails that pass by water features or lakes?
Absolutely. The region features serene lakes and river valleys. You can find paths overlooking water bodies, such as the Étang des Bénissons. The Étang d'Allas loop from Agudelle is a great example, leading you around the Étang d'Allas.
Are there hiking trails that go through forests?
Yes, the area is rich in woodlands. Hikers can explore dense woods within the Haute Saintonge region, and nearby forests like the Forêt de la Lande and the Forêt de Pons offer additional opportunities for shaded walks and immersion in nature.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit near the hiking trails?
While hiking, you can explore several historical points of interest. Jonzac, just 6 km away, features the historic Jonzac Castle. The Clion-sur-Seugne Spring – Saint Paul Chapel loop from Lussac passes by the Saint Paul Chapel. Pons, a bit further, is known for its medieval defense tower, the Pons Donjon.
Are there any notable natural attractions to explore while hiking?
Beyond the varied countryside, the region offers several natural attractions. The Maine and Seugne valleys provide picturesque views, and the Étang des Bénissons is a serene lake to discover. The area's characteristic wine-growing bocage and small calcareous hills also add to the natural beauty.
Are the hiking trails around Saint-Simon-De-Bordes dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Saint-Simon-De-Bordes area are suitable for dogs, especially those that traverse woodlands and open countryside. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly when passing through agricultural fields or near livestock, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in the area?
Yes, Saint-Simon-De-Bordes offers several family-friendly hiking options, particularly among its 19 easy-rated trails. These routes often feature gentle terrain through vineyards and woods, providing a pleasant experience for all ages. The 'petite balade' routes mentioned in the region research are ideal for quiet walks with children.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Saint-Simon-De-Bordes?
The best time to hike in Saint-Simon-De-Bordes is generally during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscapes are particularly vibrant with blooming flowers or rich autumnal colors. Summer can also be pleasant, especially for shaded forest walks, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking information for every trailhead isn't detailed, many hiking routes in rural areas like Saint-Simon-De-Bordes typically have informal parking spots near their starting points, especially in villages or near popular attractions. For routes starting in towns like Jonzac, designated parking areas are usually available.
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