Water and Landscape
Bessines is located on the Vieille Sèvre and the Bief Jaron. Pollarded ash trees stand along the conches of the first canals of the Marais near Bessines.
Those choosing Bessines as a holiday destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment there.
Culture and Local History
The Romanesque Church of Saint-Caprais in Bessines dates from the 12th century. Since 1985, it has been listed in the register of Monuments Historiques and is also a stop on the Chemin de Compostelle.
The Hosannière Cross was erected in 1771 at the request of the parish priest at the time, Abbé Bert. It stands in the cemetery on the Way of Saint James, known as the Voie des Plantagenets.
L’Homme de Bessines is an anthropomorphic sculpture made of green-painted bronze, created by Fabrice HYBER as part of a public commission from the mayor at the time, Claude JUIN. It is based on a cast of the artist’s body reduced to half its original size. The work was officially created on 19 October 1991, when six statues were installed throughout the municipality.
Walking Route and Local Landscapes
“Aux portes du Marais poitevin à Bessines” is a named walking route in Bessines. The circular route begins in the centre of Bessines at the Embarcadère des 3 ponts and follows a section of the GR 36 for approximately 200 metres.
The circular route passes the Pigeonnier du Pruneau, an old dovecote, part of which has collapsed. It also passes the Logis de Pierre Levée, the birthplace of Jean Richard, as well as the Boudrie neuve, a building that served as a venue for important gatherings after the Revolution.
Local Tradition
Angelica is cultivated in Bessines and highlighted in May during the Fête de l’Angélique festival.
