Welcome to the Marais Poitevin, a unique place where the earth, shaped by man since the Middle Ages, today offers a natural landscape of great beauty. Made up of vast expanses of greenery and numerous winding canals, this Safe Haven is the perfect place to come go green whether you are with family, as a couple, alone or with friends. Inhale, you have arrived!
The Marais Poitevin, the French Green Venice
Le Marais Poitevin regional natural park labeled Grand Site de France is located in 3 departments: Two Sevres, the Vendée and Charente Maritime. There are 3 types of Marshes: the Wet marsh, parched swamp and Maritime marsh. The Wet Marsh nevertheless remains the best known of all. Second wetland in France after the Camargue, the Marais Poitevin is a real haven of peace for lovers of nature, with its green landscapes, peaceful canals and abundant flora and fauna. A universe born from the marriage of earth and water which has been developed by man since the Middle Ages. Nicknamed the “Green Venice”, the Marais Poitevin offers a unique experience of browsing through its channels, a boat, canoe or even in habitable barge. Visitors can also explore its many walking trails ou by bike.
It is an ideal place to recharge your batteries and enjoy unspoiled nature, just a few kilometers from the city of Niort, urban capital par excellence which is also part of the Marais Poitevin Regional Nature Park. It is moreover the only city in France to be in a Natural Park regional, thus extending the “green conquest” from the territory to a city where urban biodiversity is more than present.
How to visit the Marais Poitevin?
01
In a traditional boat
The boat trip is a must to visit the Marais Poitevin. It's a unique experience Do not miss ! You will discover the beauty of this Green Venice along the water in complete serenity, accompanied by passionate local guides or completely independently.
02
On the paths, on a bicycle
You would think the territory was designed for her. The bicycle is, after the boat, the other ideal way to cross natural landscapes from the Marais Poitevin. Get on your bike and let yourself go on the 900 km of cycle paths or on the labeled cycle routes which wind through the territory.
03
On foot, on the white paths
Browse Strolling along the Marais Poitevin is the guarantee of getting as close as possible to nature. On the trails, between canals, bridges and green landscapes, discover the different faces of this Regional Natural Park at your own pace. The routes are numerous and varied allowing you to be accessible to everyone !
04
Cruising on habitable barges
New in 2023!
Sailing on the Sèvre Niortaise between Niort and Marans, it is possible thanks to habitable barges with electric propulsion! Discover nature up close, stroll through the typical villages, take your bike or an small boat and go for a stroll for a stopover.
Our Little Cities of Character®
The Petites Cités de Caractère® brand distinguishes French municipalities of less than 6 inhabitants, having a remarkable architectural and cultural heritage. These towns and villages are gems to discover for their authenticity and their timeless charm.
Coulon, capital of the Marais Poitevin
Coulon, a typical market garden village, is the starting point for discovering the Marais Poitevin. You will find The House of the Marais Poitevin, museum which will explain the history of the Marais to you in every detail. Continue your visit with a boat trip accompanied by a passionate boatman guide.
Arcais
Like place of tranquility, Arçais is an intimate village where advocate nature and conviviality. On foot, by bike or by boat, discover the towpath departing from its large port. It will allow you to discover several jewels of this village between its canals, its green flora and its traditional stone houses.
