What to do in Jonzac in 48 hours?

Written by Vicplusgreen

Published on July 14, 2024

With just 3,500 inhabitants, there's plenty to see and do in this town rich in history and a pioneer in renewable energy!

Visit the House of Energy

If you want to understand what makes this town so special, we suggest you start with a visit to the Maison de l'Energie.

A pioneer in the field of renewable energies, the city has been heated by geothermal energy since the 1980s. It may sound complex, but it's actually fascinating (and the tour is very educational, so you don't need a physics degree to understand!).

The Jonzac Energy House

Discover the City's Thermal Baths

The day continues, and just a few minutes' walk from the Maison de l'Energie, you can discover the town's thermal baths. If you've ever heard of Jonzac, it's probably because of its thermal baths!

They host over 17,000 visitors every year!

Jonzac is France's 7th-largest thermal spa, thanks to the quality of its water, wellness treatments and environment. What makes them so special is that they are located in a former quarry, giving them a unique atmosphere.

Jonzac thermal baths - @Corentin Mossiere

Take a splash at Antilles de Jonzac

Keeping with the aquatic theme, you can spend the afternoon at another of the town's unique spots: Les Antilles de Jonzac. It's one of Europe's largest water parks, and has the particularity of being heated solely by renewable energy (thanks to geothermal power!). It's perfect for relaxing or exercising, whether you're with a partner, friends, or family.

Les Antilles de Jonzac

Learn to make flour and walnut oil at the mills

Jonzac still has two working mills that can be visited to discover traditional craftsmanship. At the first, the miller teaches us all the particularities of a windmill, the pitfalls to avoid and the sounds to recognize to turn wheat into quality flour.

In the second, a water mill, we discover the process of making walnut oil using the mill's power (and some elbow grease!). It's a truly fascinating visit that will appeal to everyone, and allows you to discover the passion of 2 young millers for a craft that's increasingly rare today.

Victoria in a mill

Visit the Castle and Stroll Through Medieval Streets

Discover the castle, its ramparts and its historical anecdotes on a guided tour, or let yourself get lost in the long medieval streets...

Don't miss the Rue de Champagnac, one of the town's oldest streets! Stroll along the cobblestones, pass under tunnels and walkways, and let yourself be completely transported by the old-world atmosphere!