Montussan is a town in the Gironde, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, 15 km east of Bordeaux.
Its territory of some 8 km² is located north of the Entre-deux-Mers natural region, bordered to the north by the course of the Dordogne and to the south by that of the Garonne, which meet downstream from Bordeaux. to form the Gironde estuary.
The "eastern" limit of the locality is formed in part by the Laurence stream, which flows to the north into the Dordogne.
Despite the proximity of the Bordeaux metropolis, Montussan has retained a predominantly rural landscape (52% covered with cultivated land, 9% with woods and meadows), and the vines very present obviously give it a special charm.
With nearly 3,200 inhabitants, the town is thus renowned for its castles in the heart of estates producing red wines with the "Bordeaux Superieur" designation, in particular. Crossed to the south by the RN 89 connecting Bordeaux to Lyon, close to many tourist sites, Montussan is a pleasant stopover, especially for hikers.
In addition to its parish church of Saint-Martin, the bell tower of which houses an 18th century bell classified as an object, its castles and manors constitute the town's wealth in terms of heritage…
We will therefore mention the castle Lamothe, stronghold of the Brach family from the 16th century, one of the first lords of which, Pierre de Brach, lawyer and poet, had as friends Ronsard and Montaigne who visited him on his land... In the 18th century, a chartreuse replaced the medieval building. Although redesigned, its facade remains very elegant. The property cannot be visited.
Château Fonchereau, on the other hand, which was originally an outbuilding of Lamothe, is made up of a house enclosing a 16th century tower. The estate also includes a chapel and a dovecote. Its wines are famous. Visit with tasting. Information on +33 5 56 72 96 12.
The castle of La Moune, whose foundations date back to the 13th century, has now become a luxury hotel establishment (contact on +33 9 81 83 47 92) and the Taillefer manor hosts receptions (information on +33 5 56 94 78 02).
On the cultural level, the library offers frequent events and exhibitions (inquire at +33 5 56 72 88 42), and shows (concerts, theater) are scheduled at the Carsoule room (information on +33 5 56 72 41 00).
For sports visitors and holidaymakers, it is possible to book a tennis court with the local club (call +33 5 56 72 49 66), unless mountain biking is preferred. The association of the municipality is thus in charge of the animation of the long marked routes of 26, 36 and 46 km traced through the woods and the slopes planted with vines and which partly follow the course of Laurence. The routes also cross the neighboring municipalities. However, some sections are closed during the hunting season. For more information, call +33 6 72 70 36 26.
Another way to discover and appreciate the bucolic landscapes of Montussan and Entre-deux-Mers: hiking. Many paths and loops are available, possibly including dedicated mountain biking trails but also other routes with tasting breaks in the cellars! Secure paths leading to Bordeaux are also possible. Maps and information on +33 5 56 61 82 73 or +33 5 56 00 66 00. It is also possible to join the friendly outings of the local walking club: contact on +33 6 85 28 35 36.
