La Rochelle: Marais Poitevin Private Guided Tour by Car

Exploring the enchanting Marais Poitevin from La Rochelle promises an unforgettable experience. This private guided tour allows travelers to enjoy the region’s captivating landscapes, rich history, and diverse ecosystems. With a comfortable car ride, guided tours, and a delightful lunch break, the tour offers an exceptional blend of nature and culture. Whether seeking an adventure in English or French, this intimate journey into the "French Green Venice" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This private guided tour from La Rochelle to Marais Poitevin lasts 7 hours and is limited to 4 participants.
• The tour includes car travel, a 2-hour guided tour, a 45-minute lunch break, and return travel.
• Marais Poitevin is known as the "French Green Venice" and spans over 100,000 hectares, making it the largest human-made marsh in Western France.
• The region is recognized for its exceptional natural and heritage value, and over 80 local professionals adhere to sustainable practices.
• The tour offers an exceptional natural and historical experience of the Marais Poitevin, with diverse ecosystems and rich flora and fauna.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private guided tour from La Rochelle to the Marais Poitevin region lasts 7 hours and is limited to 4 participants.

It’s available in English and French, with a cost starting at $597.06 per person.

The tour includes car travel, a 2-hour guided tour, a 45-minute lunch break, an additional 2.75-hour guided tour, and return car travel.

Key stops feature the Brasserie la Cibulle, Abbey of Maillezais, La Cabane Maillezais, a traditional boat trip, and local shops.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a car journey from La Rochelle, taking guests on a 1-hour drive to the Marais Poitevin region.

Upon arrival, the group will embark on a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the area’s highlights.

Next, a 45-minute lunch break allows for a chance to refuel.

The tour continues with an additional 2.75-hour guided exploration, visiting sites like the Abbey of Maillezais, La Cabane Maillezais, and enjoying a traditional boat trip.

Finally, the tour concludes with a 1-hour return car journey back to La Rochelle.

Highlights of Marais Poitevin

Marais Poitevin is known as the "French Green Venice", a nod to its vast expanse of over 100,000 hectares of diverse ecosystems.

Marais Poitevin, the "French Green Venice", spans over 100,000 hectares of diverse ecosystems.

This largest human-made marsh in Western France is the second-largest wetland in the country after Camargue.

The park’s exceptional natural and heritage value has earned it the prestigious "Grand Site de France" label.

Home to a rich array of flora and fauna, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Over 80 local professionals have been recognized for their sustainable practices under the "Regional Natural Park Values" brand, ensuring the preservation of this ecological gem.

Historical and Ecological Significance

Since the 12th century, human activity has shaped the Marais Poitevin for flood control and resource preservation.

Established in 1979, the Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park protects its natural and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. The park is labeled a Grand Site de France, highlighting its exceptional value.

Over 80 local professionals are recognized for sustainable practices under the "Regional Natural Park Values" brand.

The park’s diverse ecosystems, including marshes, canals, rivers, meadows, and forests, are home to a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.

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Practical Information

When embarking on the Marais Poitevin tour, visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, water, and insect repellent.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Smoking isn’t allowed during the experience. Personal expenses in local shops aren’t included in the tour cost.

With its diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage, the Marais Poitevin offers an exceptional natural and historical experience.

Following the tour guidelines will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to this remarkable French wetland region.

Pickup Location and Stops

The tour begins with pick-up from La Rochelle, the picturesque coastal city in western France. From there, it’s a one-hour drive to the Marais Poitevin region, also known as the "French Green Venice". Along the way, the group will make several stops to fully enjoy the area’s rich history and natural beauty.

| Stop | Duration |

| — | — |

| Brasserie la Cibulle | 45 minutes |

| Abbey of Maillezais | 1 hour |

| La Cabane Maillezais | 30 minutes |

| Traditional boat trip | 1 hour |

The tour also includes time to explore local shops and enjoy a lunch break, providing a well-rounded experience of the Marais Poitevin.

Car Travel and Guided Tours

After the pickup in La Rochelle, the tour begins with a 1-hour car journey to the Marais Poitevin region.

Upon arrival, a 2-hour guided tour immerses guests in the natural wonders of the "French Green Venice." Strolling along the canals and meadows, the guide shares the area’s rich history and ecology.

Guests are immersed in the natural wonders of the "French Green Venice" during a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the canals and meadows.

Following a 45-minute lunch break, the tour continues with an additional 2.75-hour guided exploration. Visitors discover the Abbey of Maillezais, La Cabane Maillezais, and embark on a traditional boat trip, all while learning about the Marais Poitevin’s significance as a protected wetland.

Finally, the tour concludes with a 1-hour return car journey to La Rochelle.

Lunch Break and Additional Guided Tour

Following the guided tour, guests enjoy a 45-minute lunch break. They stop at the charming Brasserie la Cibulle, a local hotel offering traditional French cuisine. This provides a chance to replenish and rest before continuing the adventure.

After lunch, the tour resumes with an additional 2.75-hour guided exploration. Visitors delve deeper into the wonders of Marais Poitevin, discovering the Abbey of Maillezais and La Cabane Maillezais.

A traditional boat trip allows them to glide through the intricate network of canals, taking in the serene natural beauty. The tour concludes with an opportunity to visit local shops before the return journey to La Rochelle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour fee does not include personal expenses in shops, so bringing a packed lunch is allowed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Visitors can inquire about extending the itinerary at the time of booking to accommodate additional activities or explore the Marais Poitevin region in more depth.

Do You Offer Private Tours for Larger Groups?

Yes, the tour offers private options for larger groups. Groups can be accommodated up to 8 participants, with pricing adjusted accordingly. Customized tour options are available to suit the group’s preferences and schedule.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the private guided nature of the tour means it can be customized to the needs and preferences of the group.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Specific Sites?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include specific sites. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and work together to create a personalized experience that meets their needs and preferences.

Recap

This private guided tour offers a captivating exploration of the Marais Poitevin, a unique and picturesque region known as the "French Green Venice." The tour provides a comfortable car ride, a comprehensive guided tour of the stunning landscapes, and a delightful lunch break, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and diverse ecosystems of this remarkable natural wonder.

You can check if your dates are available here: