In what used to be the Golfe des Pictons, development works since the 11th Century have allowed the inhabitants to create a vast marshland suitable for agricultural purposes.

This space, now known as 'The Marais Poitevin', extends over 100,000 hectares, bestriding the Vendée, Deux Sèvres and Charente Maritime.

There are two distinct types of marshland. On your journey you will discover the wet marshes at Fontaines, le Poiré-sur-Velluire, Velluire and le Langon. Crossed by the river Sèvre and its tributaries, it was originally fluvial, gathering rainwater from the neighbouring plains. Thus, when water levels rise, it is liable to flood. Here you can travel by barque (flat bottomed boat) and discover the luxuriant plant life. This very protected habitat adds an extra touch of charm.

The dry marshes are protected from flooding by levées and dykes. They are used for animal rearing and cereal growing. Most of the villages are crossed by water courses, conches, streams or rivers. The river Vendée which flows from north to south through the region of Fontenay-le-Comte, is an additional source of water in the Marais Poitevin, notably around the villages of Auzay and Chaix.

Don't wait, explore the Marais Poitevin by way of its many paths, both for walking and cycling, and get a better appreciation of the countryside and its protected natural heritage.