The Marais Poitevin, or Poitevin Marsh, is a charming area that no nature lover should miss, not only because of the beauty it holds itself, but also for the great amount of activities that can be done within this impressive Natural Park.
It is an area of great natural importance to the country, and in fact, it has been classified as a Grand Site de France, both in its high ecological and heritage value in each of the villages that make it up. There is so much nature in the surrounding area that it is known as the Green Venice.
The Poitou Marshes are crossed by numerous canals that make the north-western part of this region one of France’s green lungs.
Do you want to know how to get to know the Marais Poitevin in depth? Then don't miss what we're about to tell you, you'll want to start your trip right away!
One of the best ways to discover the landscape offered by the Poitou marshes is by boat. As if it were a real city above water, its inhabitants and tourists use boats to get around for all their activities. Moreover, one of these cruises, accompanied by tourist guides, will also allow you to enjoy the wildlife that resides here.
One of the most famous events in the Marais Poitevin is the one that takes place at the end of June, when hundreds of inhabitants gather in full costume onboard the boats at night, creating an idyllic and fun atmosphere.
This territory is divided into two main areas of special natural importance. The first one is the Bay of Aiguillon Nature Reserve, which is where some of the essential products of its gastronomy are raised: oysters and mussels.
But you will also love the Marais Poitevin Ornithological Park, where you can enjoy a boat trip along the canals and see up to 70 different species of birds.
But the wonders of the Marais Poitevin don't end here, and you'll be able to discover numerous charming villages in its territory where it's worth spending at least one night in one of the rural lodgings available. An experience full of good views and tradition that you won't forget.
The first one of these could well be the village of Arçais, where the Grand Port stands out, and where its heritage has distinguished it as a Small Village with Character. Its riverside houses surrounded by lush greenery make it one of the most charming villages in the Marais Poitevin.
Saint-Hilaire-la-Pau is an attraction for hikers who will find here up to 15 kilometres to walk, and more than 100 kilometres to sail while enjoying this area considered as the Wild Marshes.
Saint-Georges-de-Rex and Sansais-La Garette are two of the charming villages that you can also visit.
As for gastronomy, being an area where vegetation and water are constant, it is the main producer of delicacies such as snails, mussels and crabs, the essentials of its gastronomy.
Welcome to the Marais Poitevin!
