Discovery experience of the Marais Poitevin
A day in the country in the heart of the Marais Poitevin
For this second nature experience, we take you to the heart of the Vendée‘s green belt . If you have chosen the Vendée for its natural wealth, then you will not be disappointed. It is impossible to spend your vacation in Petit Paris without making a detour to the Marais Poitevin.
The Vendée has so many places to discover… The day plan we propose is simply a suggestion.
Here, we’ll guide you to make the most of your time and make sure you don’t miss a thing in the Marais. The aim is to make this an unforgettable day.
Here, it’s as if time has stood still. Take a stroll in the heart of unspoilt nature, where greenery reigns.
First stop : Maillezais
It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to the small town of Maillezais. Located at the gateway to the Marais Poitevin, it’s the ideal place to start your day.
The town owes its popularity to its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Don’t miss the imposing vestige of Maillezais Abbey. This ruin dates back to the year 1000 and boasts a unique architecture.
To visit it is to step back in time. Take a guided tour to discover all the abbey’s secrets and the monks’ way of life.
An interactive museum will give you a better understanding of the abbey’s history.
In high season, the team at the abbey of Maillezais proposes various shows. The performances last approximately 30 minutes.
The shows are accessible without a reservation, but it is recommended to arrive 15 minutes before the performance starts.
Practical infos 
From June to August, the abbey is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm.
Rates: 6 € and free for young people under 18 years old.
After this leap into the past, it’s back to the present!
Take the road towards Coulon, the capital of La Venise Verte.
It takes 22 minutes to get from Maillezais to Coulon.
Be sure to stroll through the small streets of this delightful town. Visit the farming villages, the Sainte-Trinité church, the Louis Tardy quay, the house with blue shutters or the Sotterie dam.
You will love wandering through this small town with its undeniable charm.
After a busy morning, hunger sets in.
You have two choices:
A quiet picnic on the banks of La Venise Verte or lunch at a charming restaurant. For a warm welcome and delicious cuisine, stop by “ Le Centrale “.
After having gotten your strength back, it is time to get back to discovering the Marais Poitevin.
Direction La Garette for an unforgettable excursion.
Embark on a timeless stroll where greenery takes center stage.
L’embarcadère des Frênes (Ash Tree Pier) is one of the first in the Marais Poitevin. You can rent bicycles here and go for a ride along the canals. Along the way, you may be lucky enough to spot a deer in its natural habitat.
But above all, at the L’embarcadère des Frênes (Ash Tree Pier) landing, you can rent canoes to paddle on the waters of the Venise Verte. Alone, or with a guide, travel with the rhythm of the water in complete calmness.
The boatmen will be happy to tell you the best kept secrets of the marshlands.
Discover the wetlands up close.
Once you have finished your walk, visit the shop with its regional products and bring back some delicious local specialties.
After a day rich in discoveries, it is time to head back to the campsite in Sables d’Olonne.
simonbourciercom
