Description: Nice for a pleasant day out getting close to nature. Also known as the Green Venice or Little Venice, these Poitou marshlands are a protected natural environment. Covering both sides of the River Sèvre Niortaise the marshes cover an area of more than 200,000 acres. The “dry marsh” near the sea is a wide open area with long canals where migratory birds can been seen. The “wet marsh” inland has beautifully picturesque villages.

Location: To the north and east of La Rochelle, and to the west of Niort.

General Info: French only website

Our recommendations: Head for the delightful village of Coulon (pictured), just west of Niort on the D123.  You can get walking guides and maps from the tourist information centre.

For the children: Try hiring a punt (see picture), either in Coulon or from one of the many places alongside the river.

 

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to the Charente Maritime: