A natural territory par excellence, the Marais Poitevin is THE destination to disconnect! Partly classified as a “Grand Site de France”, this second largest wetland in France was labeled RAMSAR in December 2023. International recognition for all the actions implemented to preserve natural environments.
Through a multitude of landscapes and colors, the marsh takes shape around the Sèvre Niortaise which has its source at Sepvret in Deux-Sèvres. Made up of several types of marshes which depend on each other to coexist, it is a sensitive natural space that must be preserved.
To the east, we find the emblematic wet marsh formed by a multitude of canals, also called Green Venice. To the west, the vast expanses of the dried marsh and the salt meadows of Aiguillon Bay offer a prime refuge for the many species of birds that live there or come to nest there, such as the Common Harrier or the White Stilt.
If you like to adventure and travel on your own, take the green route which runs along La Sèvre Niortaise from Bazoin to Marans. The typical landscapes of the marsh welcome you with lightness: the fishermen sitting on the pontoons, the weeping willows which sway in the wind, the coypu which cross the river or even the herons take flight majestically. When evening comes, the starry sky of the marsh will be the common thread of your nights in camping by unfolding your tent or in a designated area to place your van or camper van.
To explore this cathedral of greenery and feel the soul of the marsh, you will enjoy a vast program of activities…
On the water, from Bazoin or la Grève sur Mignon, the traditional boat trip with a boatman guide will allow you to take the time to contemplate the nature around you and listen to the sound of the pigouille1 which sinks into the water, a real moment full of poetry! Thrill seekers will appreciate more the rental of a canoe or kayak which allows them to sink into the conches2 a little narrower and easily dock at a picnic area for the lunch break. THE electric barges, fully habitable and silent boats, will give you the opportunity to navigate the Sèvre Niortaise from Niort to Marans in complete peace of mind, the opportunity to fully enjoy several days of disconnection.
On land, get on your bikes with energy! The Marais Poitevin is crossed by the Vélo Francette, a 600km cycle route which connects Ouistreham, in Manche, to La Rochelle in Charente-Maritime. From market garden villages to green settings, it follows numerous flat and shaded paths. Whether you are roaming or walking, you will be able to cover many kilometers without too much difficulty.
To enjoy the end of the day, head to Charron in the bay of Aiguillon. From the port of Pavé, you can observe the producers of bouchot mussels, called mussel farmers, who return their boats. It is also the most beautiful place to immortalize the golden reflections of the sun setting on the ocean, a postcard that will make your colleagues jealous!
As you will have understood, the Marais Poitevin is a fantastic playground for lovers of the great outdoors. It offers an exceptional natural setting committed to respecting life and allows you to take a break from a sometimes hectic routine. Open its doors and treat yourself to a weekend or more, a breath of fresh air and experience adventure in its purest form!
1Pigouille: wooden pole used to move flat-bottomed boats, such as boats, which is an alternative to oars.
2Conche: canal or watercourse short.
