3 day itinerary for Marais Poitevin

Itinerary

The Marais Poitevin, often referred to as the "Green Venice," is a stunning region in France known for its picturesque canals, lush landscapes, and charming villages. It’s perfect for both hiking (randonnées) and exploring. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances outdoor adventures with cultural visits!

## Day 1: Exploring the Canals and Nature

Morning:

• Start your day in Coulon: This charming village is the gateway to the Marais Poitevin. Grab a coffee and a croissant at a local café to fuel up for the day.
• Boat Tour: After breakfast, hop on a traditional flat-bottomed boat (called a "barque") for a guided tour through the canals. This is a fantastic way to soak in the serene beauty of the marshes and spot some wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for herons and other birds!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Coulon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant. Try some local specialties like "farci poitevin," a delicious dish made with vegetables and meat.
• Hiking in the Parc Naturel Régional du Marais Poitevin: After lunch, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! There are several marked paths, but the "Sentier des Cormorans" is a lovely option that takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers great views of the marshes.

Evening:

• Dinner in Coulon: Head back to Coulon for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a local bistro, perhaps sampling some fresh fish from the region.
• Stroll along the canals: After dinner, take a peaceful evening stroll along the canals. The sunset over the water is simply magical!

## Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Historical Sites

Morning:

• Visit the Abbaye de Maillezais: Start your day with a visit to this historic abbey, which dates back to the 10th century. Explore the ruins and learn about its fascinating history.
• Explore the village of Maillezais: After the abbey, take some time to wander around the village. The quaint streets and local shops are perfect for a leisurely morning.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Maillezais: Enjoy a meal at a local café. Try some regional cheeses and charcuterie!
• Visit the Château de Terre Neuve: After lunch, head to this beautiful Renaissance castle located nearby. The gardens are lovely for a stroll, and the architecture is stunning.

Evening:

• Dinner in Niort: Drive to Niort, the largest town in the region, for dinner. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, offering both traditional and modern French cuisine.
• Explore Niort’s Old Town: After dinner, take a walk through the historic center. Don’t miss the impressive Donjon de Niort, a medieval fortress that looks stunning when lit up at night.

## Day 3: Nature and Local Culture

Morning:

• Hiking in the Green Venice: Start your day with a hike in the "Green Venice" area. The "Sentier des Marais" is a great choice, offering a mix of forest and marshland trails. Enjoy the tranquility and the sounds of nature.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in a local village: After your hike, stop for lunch in a nearby village like La Garette or Le Mazeau. Enjoy some local dishes and take in the rural charm.
• Visit the Maison du Marais Poitevin: Head to this visitor center to learn more about the unique ecosystem of the Marais Poitevin. There are interactive exhibits and information on the flora and fauna of the region.

Evening:

• Dinner in Coulon: Return to Coulon for your final dinner. Celebrate your trip with a nice meal at a restaurant overlooking the canals.
• Evening Boat Ride: If you’re up for it, consider a sunset boat ride. It’s a perfect way to end your trip, surrounded by the beauty of the marshes as the day winds down.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that combines hiking, cultural visits, and the stunning natural beauty of the Marais Poitevin. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget your camera—there will be plenty of picture-perfect moments! 🌿🚣‍♂️📸