Visit Pons in Charente-Maritime | Château Gigault

Located in Haute-Saintonge, Pons is a medieval town in Charente-Maritime known for its 12th-century keep, its castle, and its Pilgrims’ Hospital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ancient alleyways, public gardens, and panoramic views of the Seugne Valley make it a cultural destination worth exploring during a stay at our charming vacation rental near Blaye.

Would you like to Visit Pons in Charente-Maritime during your stay at our winery? Located in the heart of Haute-Saintonge, this historic town boasts a remarkable architectural heritage shaped by several centuries of history. Its medieval keep, religious buildings, and gardens make for a wonderful day of exploration. From our estate in Mazion, we invite you to explore this charming town and enjoy the region’s cultural treasures.

Discover the medieval heritage of Pons

Once a stronghold of the Saintonge region, Pons is home to several monuments that bear witness to its importance in the Middle Ages. The town developed around its old castle and fortifications, some elements of which are still visible today. A stroll through the historic center offers a chance to admire the historic facades, narrow streets, and buildings that make up its heritage.

The Pons Keep, the city's iconic landmark

Rebuilt in the 12th century and completed in 1187, the Pons Keep is one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Saintonge. This imposing stone tower, 30 meters high, overlooks the town and the Seugne Valley. Its particularly thick walls are a reminder of its former defensive purpose.

During opening hours, visitors can explore the interior of the monument and climb the 136 steps leading to the parapet walk. The climb offers a panoramic view of the rooftops of Pons and the surrounding countryside. An exhibition on medieval life rounds out the site tour.

The keep is located on the’Château Esplanade, in Pons. Tours are offered from spring through fall, with hours varying by season. For information on admission policies, special opening hours, and guided tour options, we recommend consulting the Official Profile of Pons Dungeon or contact the tourist office at 05 17 24 03 47.

Pons Castle and its ancient fortifications

Near the keep, the castle ruins offer a chance to continue exploring the medieval town. The former fortress, which has been remodeled over the centuries, includes ramparts, a main building, and the Saint-Gilles Chapel. The complex bears witness to the town’s various periods of construction and transformation.

Explore the gardens and historic streets of Pons

Beyond its monuments, Pons is best explored on foot, as you wander through its public spaces and historic neighborhoods. The streets of the city center feature traditional Saintonge architecture, with stone houses and several historic buildings. The paths leading down to the Seugne River offer a chance to explore a greener setting.

The Public Gardens of Pons and Their Panoramic Views

Located on the Château esplanade, the Pons Public Gardens occupy part of the former fortress. Their paths allow visitors to stroll near the keep while enjoying the views of the valley. A monumental staircase also connects the upper parts of the city to the areas below.

The Jardin de la Seugne, located along the river, offers another option for a stroll. Visitors can enjoy a landscape featuring trees, riverbanks, and vegetation. These natural areas complement a tour of the city’s architectural heritage and offer a chance to discover another side of the city.

Visit the Pilgrims’ Hospital in Pons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Among the must-see landmarks is the’Pons Pilgrims' Hospital, also known as the Hôpital Neuf. Built in the 12th century and expanded in the 13th century, this facility once provided shelter to the poor, the sick, and travelers—particularly pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

The monument is notable for its vaulted passageway, its ancient halls, and its medieval graffiti. It also features an archaeological museum and a medicinal garden inspired by medieval traditions.

The Pilgrims' Hospital has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, under the category of The Ways of St. James in France.

Located at 70 Georges Clemenceau Street, in Pons, the site offers self-guided and guided tours depending on the opening schedule. The hours published by the tourist office include openings on certain days from April through June, followed by a more extensive schedule in July and August. For visits outside these periods—particularly in December—it is best to check with the tourist office regarding access options. Information is available on the Official website of the Pilgrims' Hospital.

Plan a Day Trip to Pons from Château Gigault

Pons is an interesting destination for exploring the heritage of the Saintonge region from our estate in Mazion. This excursion offers a variety of activities during a stay in the Blayais region, combining medieval architecture with rural landscapes.

After this cultural outing, you can find our charming vacation rental near Blaye, located on our vineyard estate. Its setting, surrounded by vineyards, allows guests to enjoy the tranquility and distinctive landscapes of the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux appellation.

A wine tourism experience in Mazion, near Blaye

A stay at Château Gigault allows you to combine exploring historic towns with discovering the Gironde’s wine-growing heritage. Our family-owned estate, located in Mazion and Saint-Genès-de-Blaye, is part of a region shaped by viticulture and the traditions of Bordeaux wines.

We offer Tours and tastings at the winery to introduce you to our vineyard, our work, and the characteristics of our wines. These gatherings provide a better understanding of the various stages of winemaking and our connection to the terroir.

You can also check out our suggestions for Wine-tasting getaways near Bordeaux in order to organize several events focused on heritage, landscapes, and viticulture.