Marais Poitevin

Along the Atlantic coastline around La Rochelle, this expansive marshland covers an area of 15,000 hectares. Until the 11th century, this swampy area was part of the sea. As a result of man-made canals and natural channels, the Marais Poitevin developed into an enchanting area. This special nature reserve has a dreamlike quality and is best discovered by boat. Take a traditional flat-bottomed punt ride through the little streams and waterways, lined by poplar, ash, and alder trees. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of arable fields, pastureland, and meadows. It is also possible to explore the area by car, horse-drawn carriage, or bicycle. A pleasant bicycle path runs along the river between the villages of La Garette and Le Mazeau, allowing cyclists to take in the scene of typical Marais houses and flourishing meadows.

Coulon is the main village of the Marais Poitevin region. This beautiful village has a noteworthy 11th-century church and quaint, brightly colored houses. Other highlights of the area include Arçais with its atmospheric old port; Magné, which has a renowned restaurant (Brasserie de la Repentie); the small community of Saint-Hilaire-la-Palud; and the villages on the Sèvre River in the area around Niort.

(source: http://www.planetware.com)