Family Holiday in the Marais Poitevin

at a glance

First Steps in the Green Venice

Morning
Settle in around Coulon, the “capital” of the wet marsh. Quickly reach the centre of this “small town of character”, with its white houses, colourful shutters, narrow streets and lively quays along the Sèvre Niortaise.

Take time to wander, choose a restaurant or the perfect picnic spot, get your bearings and ease into the rhythm of the marsh.

Afternoon
This is where you’ll find the Maison du Marais Poitevin, the best place to understand the area. Exhibits and visits are designed with families in mind, featuring interactive displays and models.
They help explain how water has shaped – and continues to shape – this landscape, recognised as one of France’s “Grand Sites”.
A reconstructed traditional house offers a glimpse into the daily life of marsh inhabitants in the past.

at a glance

The Marsh from the Water

Morning
Set off on a traditional boat ride, with or without a guide. Glide slowly through narrow canals beneath pollarded ash trees, close to the water.
Reflections, silence and vegetation create a unique, almost suspended atmosphere.
If you have a guide, they will explain how the marsh works, its uses and its stories.

Afternoon & Evening
In the afternoon, continue with a canoe trip, freer and more active. Set your own pace, stop whenever you like, and explore narrower passages.
In the evening, enjoy a rarer experience: a night outing to witness the “fire on the water”.

at a glance

Between Villages and Craft Traditions

Morning
Ready to stretch your legs? Head out by bike along the Vélo Francette, a safe route perfectly suited to families.
The path is flat, sometimes shaded, and regularly follows the water.

You pass through villages such as Arçais or Le Vanneau, with their small ports, moored boats and traditional houses.
It’s the perfect opportunity to stop and meet local artisans and producers. Woodwork, regional products, local specialities. Encounters are simple and authentic.

Alternate between cycling, breaks and moments by the water, without aiming for distance.

at a glance

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Morning
Head to the Marais Poitevin Bird Park. The trail is designed to observe birds without disturbing them, with viewpoints seamlessly integrated into the landscape.
Children quickly get involved: spotting, listening, waiting. A treasure hunt (with four levels of difficulty) helps guide their exploration.

Afternoon
For a different kind of walk, why not be accompanied by another iconic local animal?
The Poitou donkeys are irresistible. The Coq à l’Âne farm lies between the bird park and Coulon. Alongside the walk, you can visit the farm, meet other animals and stock up on donkey milk soaps.

at a glance

Between Medieval Legends and Creative City Life

Morning
Leaving the marsh feels easier when new treasures await.
Around 25 minutes from Coulon, the Coudray-Salbart Castle is a 13th-century fortress with thick walls and powerful towers. Cross the drawbridge and begin your visit.
The experience becomes even richer with the legend of Melusine, the mythical fairy said to have built many fortresses in the region. Children quickly embrace the story, somewhere between history and imagination.

Afternoon
Aim to reach Niort before the market closes in the Baltard-style market hall (Tuesday to Sunday until 1:30 pm).

Other highlights include:

• a medieval keep
• a multidisciplinary museum
• the historic centre
• the 16th-century cathedral
• the former industrial site of Port Boinot, now a cultural and craft space.

End the day strolling along the Sèvre River — a gentle echo of your time in the marsh.