Marais Poitevin
The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed the "Green Venice", is a unique natural region offering boating, hiking and cycling through peaceful, green landscapes.
The Marais Poitevin, also known as the "Green Venice", is a vast wetland area extending over several departments, including Deux-Sèvres, Vendée and Charente-Maritime. This regional nature park is famous for its tranquil canals, floodplain meadows and lush green landscapes, providing an idyllic setting for a variety of outdoor activities.
Boat trips are one of the main attractions of the Marais Poitevin. Visitors can rent traditional flat-bottomed boats, called "flats", and navigate through a network of canals lined with willow and ash trees. These walks allow you to discover the local fauna and flora, and observe water birds, dragonflies and sometimes even otters.
For hiking and cycling enthusiasts, the Marais Poitevin offers numerous marked trails that wind through meadows, woods and picturesque villages. These routes offer scenic views and opportunities to explore local architecture, including locks and watermills.
The Marais Poitevin is also a place rich in cultural heritage. Many villages in the region, such as Coulon and Arçais, have traditional stone houses and historic churches. Local markets offer fresh produce and regional specialties, allowing visitors to sample local cuisine.
Educational and environmental activities are also at the heart of the Marais Poitevin mission. Interpretive centers and museums, like the Maison du Marais Poitevin, offer interactive exhibits and workshops to learn about the region's unique ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts.
The Marais Poitevin is a must-see destination for those looking to reconnect with nature, explore peaceful landscapes and discover a rich and diverse cultural heritage.