A day in the Marais Poitevin
The Marais Poitevin is a remarkable region of France. Located mainly in the southern Vendée and extending into the Deux-Sèvres, it’s a vast network of canals surrounded by lush green countryside. The Marais Poitevin is renowned for its natural beauty, peaceful landscapes and boating activities amid lush vegetation. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to spend a relaxing day, then you’ve come to the right place. It’s also a haven for a wide variety of birds and wildlife. Keep your eyes wide open during your stroll.
Slide along the channels
To discover the Marais Poitevin, I recommend starting with a trip on the water. Glide along the canals in your own boat, surrounded by the greenery. Enjoy the calm of this promenade with family, friends or lovers !
Let yourself be enchanted by a ride in a traditional boat and glide gently over the calm waters, surrounded by lush vegetation. Explore the winding canals lined with willows and reeds, and discover the magic of the “Green Venice”. Listen to the gentle song of the birds nestling among the branches, watch the magical reflections in the shimmering water. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere, disconnect from the modern world. Let your dreams guide you as you lose yourself in this aquatic labyrinth.
The Venise verte pier is open from April to June from 10:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 18:00, and in September too. During the summer months of July and August, it is open from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm non-stop.
The boat trip can last from 45 minutes to 3 hours, with or without a guide. Prices range from €11 to €32 per adult with guide, and from €19 to €46 for the same duration without guide, by boat. You can find full price details on their website : https: //www.la-venise-verte.com/tarifs.htm
A gourmet break in the heart of nature
Just a few steps from the landing stage, you can visit the picnic area at Les cabanes for a break in the heart of nature.
For a picnic in keeping with the theme of the day, I can suggest a few specialties from the Marais Poitevin, sure to delight your taste buds. Halfway between the Vendée and the Deux Sèvres, the local specialities will surprise you. The first is Angelica, a green herb that can be used in a variety of ways : candy, alcohol, jam, tea… Chabichou cheese fits perfectly in your cooler too, and with a piece of fresh bread, it will liven up your meal. You can also try Echiré butter or tourteau fromagé.
The Marais Poitevin bird park
The bird park offers a privileged window onto the bird life of this region. Nestling in the heart of the nature reserve, it allows bird enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a captivating natural spectacle. From its strategically placed vantage points, visitors can admire an array of migratory and resident species. Herons, egrets and ducks await your gaze. The observatory offers an educational experience with information on species and ecosystems for young and old to enjoy.
Self-guided tours cost €9.50 per adult, €6 for children aged 3 – 12. The park is open most of the year. April to September 10:00 am to 7:00 pm daily, September to November 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Last stop in a typical village
Before setting off again, take a stroll through one of the region’s emblematic little villages and stroll for a few minutes between the stone walls. We can recommend Coulon or Arçay for their beautiful architecture, full of charm and authenticity. Winding canals and cobbled lanes mingle, while half-timbered houses and tiled roofs add a touch of history. The small villages of the Marais Poitevin invite you to take a timeless break, where tranquility and beauty are combined with simplicity.
