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Le Marais Poitévin

Published on: January 4, 2024

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 websiteOur 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:

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