The Marais Poitevin, France’s second-largest wetland after the Camargue, offers around Coulon one of the country’s most original family cycling routes: a maze of canals lined with pollarded ash trees, nicknamed the “Green Venice” for its distinctive waterway network.
A route along the water
From Coulon, the village considered the capital of the Marais Poitevin, the route follows towpaths along the canals toward Arçais, offering a continuous view of this unique watery landscape, shaded by pollarded ash trees planted along the banks for generations.
The loop continues toward Damvix, another typical marsh village, before heading back to Coulon along quiet small roads. Allow around 30 km for this loop, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the canals or in one of the villages passed through.
How to approach the ride as a family
The completely flat terrain (20 m of total elevation gain) and generally smooth towpaths make this route accessible from a very young age, in a trailer or child seat for toddlers. The slow pace naturally imposed by this watery landscape makes for a particularly relaxing outing, ideally combined with a traditional boat ride to mix up activities.
The marsh’s wetlands can harbour mosquitoes, especially late in the day and in summer: insect repellent is a useful precaution, particularly for kids.
When to go
The ideal window runs from April to October. Spring brings particularly lush vegetation and pleasantly cool conditions; summer, despite sometimes marked heat, stays pleasant thanks to the generous shade of the pollarded ash trees lining most of the route.
Good to know
Coulon, a picturesque village with whitewashed houses typical of the marsh, has a decent choice of accommodation and several bike and boat rental shops, making it an ideal base for exploring the Marais Poitevin over half a day or more.
