The banks of the Clain

Poitiers is unique in that it offers real nature breaks right in the middle of the city. The city is divided into 3 sections by two rivers: the Clain and the Boivre. On your left is the entrance to the little Oreillères path, which runs alongside the banks of the Clain and leads to the Tison islet, accessible by a floating footbridge. The islet was developed on a former industrial wasteland. It features both a guinguette and an orchard, as well as temporary attractions such as an old mill, a place to take a siesta and even a sports area. If you fancy a hike, you can even continue on to Calvin's cave, just a few miles from here. Several caves have formed over the years beside the Varenne meadows. The area is commonly known as Calvin's cave in memory of the Protestant reformer who is said to have sought refuge here for a time.