Getaway in the Marais Poitevin
Come and immerse yourself in the heart of nature for a most enjoyable day in the Marais Poitevin.
The Marais Poitevin nature park is one of France’s largest listed sites, so it’s a must-see during your stay in Les Flots de l’Océan. Discover this unique place and seize your chance to enjoy a day out of time.
Some practical advice before you leave:
- You’ll need to leave early if you want to make the most of your day.
- Bring your own picnic for a lunch in an exceptional green setting
- And don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen, as the sun will be out in force, whether you’re out on a boat or on foot.
Let’s start with the pretty commune of Maillezais
It will take you an hour to get there by car. The hour-long journey is well worth it, you’ll see. Take in the sights at Maillezais Abbey.
Rich in history, this building is a true architectural gem. During your visit, you’ll learn all about the life of monks in the Middle Ages. Playfully move from room to room to discover all their secrets.
Entertainment is available all summer long. Enjoy shows and musical entertainment throughout the day. Musicians and actors will be on hand to tell you all about the history of these places. And you’ll also be told the story of the abbey’s history, thanks to a projection on the abbey’s stone walls. This short film, about 20 minutes long, illustrates the facts perfectly, so that young and old alike can immerse themselves in the story of this unusual epic.
After that, we pass through Coulon
The capital of the Marais Poitevin awaits you. This small village, typical of the region, will delight you. It’s a very pleasant walk. Calm, tranquil and cheerful, this flower-filled village is built around the Sèvre Niortaise river. In the heart of Coulon, you’ll naturally find piers where you can take a boat out on the river. Would you like to take a stroll in the peaceful natural surroundings of the Sèvre Niortaise?
La Garette and its unforgettable boat trip
Escape for a few moments on the famous Green Venice.
You can opt for a guided tour with a boatman, or a solo tour for greater autonomy.
As we’ve told you, there are plenty of landing stages, but not all of them are the same. We’ve selected the best of the best to help you make the right choice.
L’embarcadère des Frênes!
Located in Sansais, this starting point will delight you.
Climb aboard your boat.
You’ll see, the walk is magnificent. Row on to the Sansais huts and discover the flower-filled houses lining the canal.
A little note for you If you want to get to the pier from Coulon, the route de la Garette is ideal. After the Place du Port, you’ll find a parking lot at your disposal. Walk back up the hill and you’ll find Rue des Gravées on your right.
Optional
If you’d like to continue your day in the Marais, and if you’ve got any energy left, there are a number of secondary roads well worth the detour. The villages of Arçais and Damvix will take you on a journey. Arçais is also classified as a “petite cité de caractère”, so it would be a shame not to make a detour there. After that, the drive home and the rest on the way back will be well deserved.
Focus on the Poitevin terroir
If you’re spending the day in the Marais Poitevin, you can’t miss a visit to one of the many small local stores. Taste local specialties such as needles, frog legs, pate de ragondin or farci poitevin.
Go beyond appearances and let yourself be tempted – you won’t be disappointed.
Don’t hesitate to take some home to share with family, friends and colleagues on your return from vacation.
The right address: if we can recommend a place to do a little shopping before setting off again, it would be Saveurs Régionales. Located in the center of Coulon, the owner will be happy to advise you. Let Mr Godard show you the local specialities!
