Just 30 minutes from your holiday home in the Vendée, discover the Marais Poitevin, the largest marshland in western France. Designated a Regional Nature Park and classified as a ‘Grand Site de France’, this natural gem is renowned for its Green Venice and 300km of navigable canals. A whole world to discover on foot, by bike or by boat. An absolute must!
A paradise for lovers of slow tourism
The Marais Poitevin, an ancient marine gulf, stretches over 100,000 hectares between Vendée, Deux-Sèvres and Charente-Maritime. It is the second largest wetland in France after the Camargue. Explore its shady canals, lush green meadows and picturesque villages on foot, by bike or by boat. The Venise Verte promises a soothing break from the hustle and bustle.
Must-sees in the Marais Poitevin
A boat trip on the Venise Verte
You can't visit the Marais Poitevin without a trip in a traditional boat, known as a ‘plate’. These boats, driven by boatmen, reveal the secrets of the marsh through captivating stories. Piers such as those at Coulon, Maillezais and Arçais offer guided or self-guided tours, lasting from 45 minutes to several hours.
- Tip: opt for a visit at sunset for a magical experience in the heart of this cathedral of greenery.
Walks and hikes in the Marais Poitevin
Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the many signposted trails. With paths lined with poplars, wooden footbridges and wet meadows, each route offers a unique natural spectacle. The marsh is home to a wealth of wildlife, with no fewer than 250 species of bird, 38 species of fish, 60 species of dragonfly and 80 species of butterfly. With a naturalist guide, set off to meet herons, kingfishers, otters and other animals that are emblematic of wetlands. All you have to do is choose your walk and let us guide you!
Cycling in the Marais Poitevin
The Marais Poitevin is also ideal for cycle touring, with almost 850 kilometres of signposted cycle paths to suit all levels. You can cycle along the canals and banks of the Sèvre Niortaise on the Vélo Francette. There are several loops around Coulon and Maillezais, where you can explore the market-garden villages with their harbours, piers, bridges and locks. These include Maillé, Damvix, Le Mazeau and Saint Sigismond.
For more information, visit the website of the Parc naturel régional du Marais poitevin
Cultural visits in the heart of the Marais Poitevin
The towns and villages of Niort, Fontenay-le-Comte and Coulon are gateways to the history of the Marais Poitevin. On the road from Niort to Fontenay-le-Comte, discover Maillezais Abbey, a thousand-year-old witness to the history of the marsh, and Nieul-sur-l'Autise Abbey, renowned for its miraculously preserved cloister. Continue your journey through the corridors of time with a visit to the Château de Terre-Neuve in Fontenay-le-Comte, a jewel of the French Renaissance famous for its alchemical fireplace.
Gîte rental in the Marais Poitevin
Extend your experience by booking a holiday rental in the Marais Poitevin. The Résidence de Vacances Le Hameau de Vouvant, located at the gateway to the Venise Verte, welcomes you to a peaceful and rejuvenating setting. The self-catering village offers a charming base from which to make the most of the many activities on offer in the Marais Poitevin. Don't wait any longer, book your stay now!
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