The camping de Beaulieu in La Rochelle is located less than 45 minutes from Coulon, capital of Green Venice and a must see site in the Poitevin Marsh. To get there, simply follow the Nationale 11 to Épannes, then take the D1 to Coulon.
The Natural Park includes the oceanic area of Baie de l’Aiguillon just above La Rochelle, the agricultural areas of the dried-up marsh, and the Venice Verte, a vast wetland truly emblematic of the Poitevin Marsh Park. Bicycles can be rented on site to follow the waterways to discover the villages of the Marais. The pleasant and shaded walk takes you over bridges and footbridges over the various canals. Considered as the capital of Green Venice, the charming little town of Coulon benefits from the “Petite cité de caractère” label. Its 19th century quay, lock, medieval alleyways and blue shuttered houses give it a special charm. It houses the Maison du Marais Poitevin, an ecomuseum dedicated to the history of the Marais and the discovery of its ecosystem and biodiversity.
Within a radius 15 to 20 km around Coulon, do not miss the visit of the keep of Niort, or the abbey Saint-Vincent de Nieul-sur-l’Autise.
The Venice Verte is a set of canals forming a real wet labyrinth between traditional pastures and shaded banks of alders, willows and pollarded ash trees. Classified ” Grand site de France “, Green Venice is a resourcing destination, a haven of nature and calm. The boat trip on the canals of the marsh is a must for any visit to the Poitevin’ swamp. All you need to do is rent a boat from one of Coulon’s wharves or from the surrounding area: you can take a free ride or choose to be led by a boatman who will tell you about the history of the site and the functioning of its ecosystem.
