Castle and garden La Touche

Built in the 13th century, with later additions dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries, this former Commandery forms a residence set within an enclosed courtyard. The property comprises the main manor house and its outbuildings, as well as the monks’ quarters, a barn, a stable and a dovecote.
The complex has been restored by the owners and is listed in the supplementary register of historic monuments.

The Commanderie de la Touche, with its rich history, makes a striking impression on the curious traveller. Initially intrigued by its imposing silhouette, the visitor is inevitably struck by a sense of awe upon gazing at the high walls that bear witness to its eight centuries of existence. Upon entering the courtyard through a majestic porch, one immediately senses the significance of this unique heritage whilst discovering an architectural ensemble of great beauty. And yet, what remains of those time-immemorial days?
A real challenge, partly met through the impressive restoration work of recent years. One’s imagination is set in motion and one begins to dream.
Emotion mingles with enthusiasm.
Here in the Vendée, on this land steeped in history, even before so much blood was shed here, men lived out their deep faith, upholding the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. These monastic commitments have today lost their innate meaning; they deserve to be recalled and revealed.
When the glorious chants of these pious men once rang out across these sacred lands, we should not be surprised to still hear the walls speaking to us. For they embody both the strength of those lives filled with hope and the gentleness of those sincere souls.
This is what has been passed down to us by the monks of the Order of the Temple and their successors in the Order of St John of Malta, who lived here.
Today, as we seek points of reference in our lives as modern human beings, lost without the spirituality that has made us human, these places are unexpected sources of inspiration where anyone can come to meditate on the legacy of our forefathers and share in it.
This is our hope for the Commanderie de la Touche, nestled in the heart of our bocage and overlooking the Lay Valley. May we be the ones to bring this to fruition.

The grounds are open to the public in July, August and the first week of September, subject to prior booking on 07 82 37 48 07 or by email at Commanderie_de_La_Touche@pm.me.
It is also open to the public every year during Heritage Days, as well as on the occasion of the Christmas Market on the first Sunday in December.

No smoking
Picnics not permitted

• Groups accepted ( minimum : 1 - maximum : 10 )
• Types : historic site and monument

• French

Calculate my itinerary

Visits languages

• French

Individual

• Length of visit : de 30 à 60 mn (on average)

Groups

• Length of visit : de 30 à 60 (on average)

Free

• Full adult price : 2,00 €
• Children's price : 0,00 € - moins de 15 ans

• Cheques and postal orders

Open all year round