Want to know more about Marais Poitevin holidays before going you go?
Why should I visit?
The Marais Poitevin, France’s second largest wetland area, is situated close to the famous seaside resorts of La Rochelle and Ile de Ré, Châtelaillon-Plage on the Atlantic coast. Its waterways constitute a significant hierarchy, from the very large to the very small: rivers, canals and channels criss-cross the area parcel by parcel and give the Grand Site its labyrinthine appearance.
This labyrinth of waterways, lined with tall and dense vegetation, is worth exploring as it is the largest wooded marshland on the Atlantic coast (49,000 hectares) and it has one of the richest natural habitats in France.
What can you do here?
Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin is a paradise for the wanderer. The long winding paths that penetrate the vegetation can be explored on foot, by bike or by carriage. Horse riding enthusiasts can explore the magnificent curvy meadows in the region. The adventure of discovering the pristine landscapes can take up to one week and can be a lifetime experience.
Boating along the waterways is the chief attraction of the destination. However, navigating on the Wet Marsh can prove to be a great self-discovery trip as it is not easy to steer alone in the heart of this maze. If you prefer a guide, there are plenty to choose from in Le Marais. You will not regret the effort of exploring the Marais – it only discloses its secrets to those who appreciate it.
What makes Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin special?
The landscapes of the wet marsh are made up of two highly characteristic elements that exist side by side: the river system, with a sophisticated hierarchy of waterways and the plant fabric, which brings volume, colours and perspectives with its ash trees, poplars, willows and alders. The villages of the Wet Marsh are therefore organised around their links with water.
The characteristic landscape of the Marais Poitevin has featured in numerous artistic representations and productions. Over the years painters, watercolourists, storytellers, writers, photographers and artists have each in their turn captured the history and imagination of the spirit of this mysterious and unusual world. The landscape changes from an open lattice work of different shades of grey in winter, to a place of hidden scenery in summer - dominated by multiple shades of green and inviting you to sit and meditate in the shade of the foliage, along canals covered in duckweed.
Read more about Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin
Watch videos about France and Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin holidays
Watch videos about these European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) in Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin , covering areas of outstanding natural beauty. To watch videos of the Eden Destinations of France which can help you plan your holiday to Le Grand Site du Marais Poitevin , follow the link to
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