PUY du FOU, literally “The Fool’s Peak,” has quite a unique history: it began in 1978 as a musical show about the region’s history, using existing ruins as a stage. Eleven years later, it evolved into a fully themed historical park.
Never has a name been more fitting, as this tourist destination, which now attracts over 2,000,000 visitors annually, is quite literally in the middle of nowhere.
Where is PUY du FOU located?
PUY du FOU is about 80 km southeast of Nantes and around 380 km southwest of Paris.
What does PUY du FOU include?
PUY du FOU includes:
- 1 theme park
- 6 on-site hotels
- 1 evening show called “La Cinéscénie” with a separate ticket
The hotels of PUY du FOU
I don’t usually go into detail about park hotels, but the ones at PUY du FOU truly deserve a mention.
There are six themed hotels, each one perfectly reflecting the spirit of the park.
La Cittadelle
In this hotel, you’ll experience what it was like to live within the city walls.
Le Camp du Drap d’Or
Here, you’ll relive the era of Francis I and Henry VIII of England for a colorful and original stay!
Les Îles de Clovis
This hotel offers tranquility in a lakeside village from the 1st millennium, surrounded by preserved nature!
La Villa Gallo-Romaine
Behind its grand columns, the “Gallo-Roman Villa” invites you into its unique world! You’ll be transported back to the Roman Empire era while staying in authentically decorated rooms!
Le Logis de Lescure
Treat yourself to a stay in this authentic 18th-century Vendée residence! Choose your room’s theme based on your interests: “Hall of Mirrors” for romantics, “The Planetarium” for astronomy lovers, “Cabinet of Curiosities” for nature lovers, or “Music Room” for music enthusiasts.
Le Grand Siècle
As a privileged guest of Louis XIV, you’ll stay in a suburban château reserved for the Sun King’s court and relive the splendor of the Grand Siècle!
When is it open?
PUY du FOU usually opens in early April and runs through the end of the Halloween season.
I recommend checking the official website for park hours and to download the app, which is very useful before and during your visit.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to follow my 12 essential theme park rules.
How much does PUY du FOU cost?
A one-day open-date ticket to PUY du FOU is available on the official website for €53 per person.
But if you want to save money and pay in 3 interest-free installments, visit MY SITE for park + hotel ticket packages.
How is PUY du FOU organized?
PUY du FOU doesn’t have traditional themed lands. Instead, the park has a unifying historical theme, ranging from the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages to the 1930s.
Inside you’ll find:
- 13 show stages hosting multiple performances per day
- 4 immersive experiences
- 6 natural and interactive areas
- 4 themed villages
- 1 evening show stage
I won’t describe every single experience at PUY du FOU—just the ones I consider truly unmissable.
Le Mime et L’Étoile
Debuted this year, this show is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen.
The blend of storytelling and technology will make you fall in love with the characters.
It’s 1914, and guests are invited to silently witness the filming of a brand-new movie starring Garance, a rising star of the silver screen, and Mimoza, a dreamy young mime. Director Gérard Bideau hopes to fulfill his dream… believing that only true love can bring color and sound to silent black-and-white cinema.
Le Signe du Triomphe
Held in a massive arena reminiscent of the Colosseum, this show brings to life the kind of entertainment Roman emperors offered their people 2,000 years ago.
Arrive at least 20–30 minutes early—despite the arena’s size, seats fill up fast.
Les Vikings
Possibly the most Instagrammed show at PUY du FOU.
Battles, fire, burning ships, and vessels that rise from the water—these are just a few of the things you’ll witness during this 26-minute performance.
Le Dernier Panache
This show is hard to explain—just know that the theater is 360 degrees and the audience rotates inside. That alone makes it unmissable. 
Les Amoureux de Verdun
This is one of the four immersive experiences at PUY du FOU.
In this walk-through show, you’ll be transported into World War I, giving you a taste of the daily trench life faced by frontline soldiers.
La Cinéscénie
This show is considered a separate experience—it has its own entrance, separate ticket, and limited schedule.
Seen by over 11 million spectators, this performance features 2,400 actors on a 23-hectare stage with 28,000 costumes.
The world’s largest nighttime show has become a must-see legendary event.
In recent years, Cinéscénie has reached a whole new level with many innovations: new lighting effects, 3D video projections, and new sets have created 10 new scenes in just 6 years, along with impressive special effects.
Cinéscénie is truly a spectacle worth seeing!
[su_youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3K9DoayS5rQ” width=”720″ height=”1280″]
Tips and Conclusion
PUY du FOU is a unique park—if you’re looking for thrilling rides, this isn’t the place for you.
But if you love nature, grand shows, and being amazed, you absolutely must visit.
Don’t worry if you don’t speak French. Just download the official park app, bring a pair of headphones, and follow the instructions to listen in other languages (though unfortunately, Italian is not available).
As always, remember to follow my essential tips in this article.
