The green Venice

La Venise verte

Crown jewel of the natural regional patrimony, "Green Venice" is a veritable treasure of beauty encased in greenery.

The Marais poitevin lives in accordance with its dozens of kilometers of canals used by the marshland dwellers on their "flats", the raft-like contraptions they easily steer with their "pigouilles" (oars). The realm of the "wet" swamps displays its finest features near Niort, whereas those deemed "dried" are visible near the Atlantic.

Two decors, two atmospheres. While vegetation may be luxurious in Deux-Sèvres, the horizon seems far more bereft of greenery as it approaches the ocean.