Once considered a tranquil and authentic slice of rural France, Vienne has rapidly evolved into a thriving tourist destination, attracting approximately 4.5 million visitors annually. While retaining its bucolic allure, the department now boasts a diverse array of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests.
Major Draw: Futuroscope and Its Expansions
Leading the charge is Futuroscope, a futuristic theme park renowned for its immersive video-based attractions and cutting-edge cinematic experiences. Featuring giant screens and interactive installations, the park offers entertainment suitable for all ages.
Adjacent to Futuroscope is Aquascope, a high-tech water park developed by the same company. Incorporating advanced video effects, Aquascope delivers a unique sensory experience—visitors can lounge in a pool while digital projections simulate meteors crashing into the water, or dip their toes in basins that appear to be deep navy blue.
With capacity for 1,500 guests, the venue often experiences high demand, leading to wait times for many of its features. While the majority of the park is indoors, it includes an outdoor pool, sunbathing area, and a slide that exits into the open air. Reservations are required, and tickets start at approximately €50.
Alternative Swimming Spots
Beyond high-tech attractions, Vienne offers more traditional and accessible options for water activities. Public swimming pools and plans d’eau—natural swimming areas—are plentiful throughout the region.
Among them, the Aire de Loisirs in Queaux stands out. It features lifeguarded lake swimming during the summer months, as well as facilities including a paddling pool, volleyball courts, hiking trails, picnic areas, public barbecues, and fishing spots, all available free of charge.
Wildlife and Nature-Based Experiences
Animal lovers have several options as well. La Vallée des Singes showcases a wide variety of primates in a naturalistic setting. Aquarium de Loudun focuses on freshwater fish, while Les Géants du Ciel offers dramatic falconry demonstrations.
Another standout is Terre de Dragons, a zoo specializing in reptiles such as crocodiles, alligators, and tortoises, giving visitors a closer look at some of the world’s most formidable species.
Adventure and Extreme Sports
For thrill-seekers, Vienne provides ample opportunities for adventure sports. These include hot air balloon rides through Montgolfière Centre Atlantique in Châtellerault, bungee jumping with Oxygene40 in L’Isle-Jourdain, and microlight aircraft flights via Guynem’Air ULM in Saint-Secondin, where English is spoken.
Additional offerings include rock climbing at CPA Lathus in Lathus-Saint-Rémy and motor racing at Circuit du Val de Vienne, catering to adrenaline enthusiasts of all kinds.
As Vienne continues to evolve, it successfully blends its pastoral charm with modern attractions, offering something for every type of traveler—without losing touch with its authentic roots.
