From Paintbrush to Plate: Art & Gastronomy in Tusson
Tusson may be one of the prettiest villages in the Charente, but there’s so much more to it than beautiful old stone houses. I went for a wander recently and discovered artists, makers, quirky little shops and plenty of good things to eat.
Tusson is about 10 minutes from Ruffec, heading West towards Aigre and the Atlantic Coast. I have always really liked it, it’s got a lovely creative vibe about it with artists and makers dotted around the village. There’s beautiful properties here, creamy stone, pretty shutters, but also plenty of those slightly eccentric little details that make you stop and look twice.
Including, a shark in a window!
Old stone, artists and cute little shops
Tusson is home to Marpen who are an association that renovate historical properties using traditional methods and the whole village has the feel of being carefully kept exactly as it should be. There are little lanes with hollyhocks, a beautiful restaurant, Le Compostelle and a great new bar called Le RĂ©veil Tussonais which is perfect for a nice chilled glass of something after wandering around.
From potters to paintings and an amazing workshop by incredible sculptor, Mark Delaney. And, who could miss the gigantic fish installation by talented local artist, Gabriel Olivet right at the heart of the village. Take a detour off the main road down to the ancient Abbaye des Dames, mostly ruins these days but you can take your time and wander through the lovely medieval monastic gardens, they are really lovely. If you fancy more of an historical tour, pop into the Maison Du Patrimoine de Tusson, brilliant for local information.
There’s no need to rush around ticking off sights. Just wander through the streets, admire the old houses, peer through the windows and see what you find.
We stopped at La Maison de Charente, with shelves full of local produce, they literally have the best Magret de Canard in the world! FACT. Next door you can grab a delicious pizza to take away and there’s a great little Epicerie that has fantastic trompe d’oeil on the wall outside.
And, over the other side of the tree-lined square, GATEAUX. Oh, my, god.
Cake and plants. What is not to love about that? You have to go and see lovely Lydia while you are here, she makes the best cakes.
Tea and a rather lovely slice of cake – the perfect end to our little Tusson wander.
Discovering Tusson
Tusson is understated, not flashy but a lovely place to spend a slow morning or an afternoon.
Sometimes the best way to discover the Charente is simply to park the car and have a wander.
Katie’s Tip đ»
Take an ice bag for the duck breasts. Don’t make too much of a plan and leave room for cake!
From paintbrush to plate, Tusson is just my sort of place.
