La Rochelle: Marais Poitevin Private Guided Tour by Car

Exploring the picturesque Marais Poitevin wetlands from La Rochelle is a unique opportunity. This private guided tour by car whisks visitors through the scenic countryside, offering a chance to discover the region’s rich history and diverse ecosystem. With a mix of activities, including a traditional boat trip and visits to local producers, the tour promises an immersive experience. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty or cultural insights, this intimate adventure could be the perfect gateway to the Marais Poitevin.

Key Points

• A private guided tour by car from La Rochelle to the Marais Poitevin, a designated Grand Site de France and the second largest wetland in France.
• The tour includes a 1-hour car journey, 2-hour guided exploration, 1-hour traditional boat trip, and a 45-minute lunch break.
• The tour price is Kč 13,759 per person, with a maximum group size of 4 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The Marais Poitevin features three types of marsh and supports over 80 local professionals promoting sustainable practices.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and visitors are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, and use insect repellent.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private guided tour by car from La Rochelle to Marais Poitevin is priced at Kč 13,759 per person.

The private guided tour by car from La Rochelle to Marais Poitevin is priced at Kč 13,759 per person.

It’s a 7-hour tour with a group size limited to 4 participants. Pickup is from your hotel in La Rochelle, followed by a 1-hour car journey to the Marais Poitevin.

The tour includes a 2-hour guided exploration, a 1-hour traditional boat trip, and lunch. You’ll also visit local food shops and producers.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Itinerary and Activities

After being picked up from your hotel in La Rochelle, you’ll embark on a 1-hour car journey to the Marais Poitevin. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, including stops at Brasserie la Cibulle, the Abbey of Maillezais, and La Cabane Maillezais. Following this, you’ll take a 1-hour traditional boat trip with an expert guide. During the lunch break at Restaurant L’échauguette, you’ll have 45 minutes to refuel. Afterward, you’ll visit local food shops and producers, such as La Crèmerie de la Venise Verte, La Maison de la Meunerie, and the Maison du Marais Poitevin.

| Location | Duration |

| — | — |

| Brasserie la Cibulle | Included in 2-hour guided tour |

| Abbey of Maillezais | Included in 2-hour guided tour |

| La Cabane Maillezais | Included in 2-hour guided tour |

| Traditional Boat Trip | 1 hour |

| Restaurant L’échauguette | 45 minutes |

Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park

Designated a Grand Site de France in 1979, the Marais Poitevin covers over 100,000 hectares of marshes, canals, rivers, meadows, and forests.

This unique wetland is the second largest in France after the Camargue. It features three types of marsh – wet, drained, and maritime – and supports over 80 local professionals promoting sustainable practices.

The area’s historical significance dates back two million years, originally a flat Jurassic plain.

Today, visitors can experience the region’s natural beauty through navigation by boat, canoe, or barge, as well as walking and biking trails.

Historical and Ecological Significance

The Marais Poitevin’s historical significance dates back two million years, when the region was originally a flat Jurassic plain.

Over time, human activity since the 12th century has shaped the area for flood control and resource management. This unique wetland now features wet, drained, and maritime marshes, the second largest in France after the Camargue.

The Marais Poitevin’s ecological value is recognized, supporting over 80 local professionals who promote sustainable practices.

The Marais Poitevin’s ecological value is recognized, with over 80 local professionals promoting sustainable practices in this unique wetland.

Visitors can explore the marshes, canals, and rivers by boat, canoe, or barge, as well as on foot or bike along the trails.

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Visitor Information and Recommendations

This private guided tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, water, and insect repellent are recommended items to bring. Smoking is not allowed during the tour.

| Bring | Don’t Bring |

| — | — |

| Comfortable Shoes | Wheelchair |

| Sun Hat | Smoking |

| Camera | |

| Water | |

Following these recommendations will help ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience exploring the Marais Poitevin, a designated Grand Site de France and one of the largest wetlands in France.

Exploring Brasserie La Cibulle

What better place to start the tour than at Brasserie la Cibulle? This local brewpub offers a taste of the Marais Poitevin’s rich culinary heritage.

Visitors will learn about the region’s traditional brewing techniques and sample the brewery’s signature beers, each crafted using locally-sourced ingredients. The knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the Brasserie’s sustainability practices and its role in preserving the area’s unique identity.

With its cozy atmosphere and picturesque setting, the Brasserie la Cibulle sets the stage for an immersive exploration of the Marais Poitevin’s history, culture, and environmental stewardship.

Visiting the Abbey of Maillezais

After sampling the local brews at Brasserie la Cibulle, the tour moves on to explore the historic Abbey of Maillezais.

Once a powerful Benedictine monastery, the abbey’s impressive ruins stand as a testament to the region’s religious heritage. Guided by an expert, visitors learn about the abbey’s tumultuous past, from its medieval glory to its near-destruction during the Wars of Religion.

Wandering the site, they marvel at the ornate Romanesque architecture and imagine the monks who once inhabited these hallowed halls.

This stop offers a glimpse into the rich history that has shaped the Marais Poitevin landscape.

Enjoying the Traditional Boat Trip

After exploring the historic Abbey of Maillezais, the tour transitions to a more immersive experience – a traditional boat trip along the canals of the Marais Poitevin.

An expert guide navigates the small wooden boat, providing commentary on the unique ecosystem and centuries-old traditions of the wetlands.

An expert guide navigates the small wooden boat, sharing insights into the wetlands’ unique ecosystem and age-old traditions.

Visitors are surrounded by lush vegetation, tranquil waters, and the peaceful ambiance of this remarkable natural landscape.

The boat trip offers a serene and authentic way to experience the heart of the Marais Poitevin, showcasing its beauty and significance as a designated Grand Site de France.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Customized Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can request a customized tour itinerary. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences and interests within the designated 7-hour duration.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?

Yes, there are group discounts available. Groups of 3-4 participants receive a 5% discount per person. Larger groups of 5 or more can negotiate custom pricing with the tour operator.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests should inquire with the tour provider about options to customize the itinerary and extend the tour length to suit their preferences.

Can I Opt Out of Certain Activities in the Itinerary?

Yes, you can opt out of certain activities in the itinerary. The tour is flexible, and the guide will accommodate your preferences. Just let them know which activities you’d like to skip during the tour.

Are There Additional Costs for Any Optional Activities?

There are no additional costs for optional activities. The tour price covers all scheduled activities in the itinerary, and participants can opt out of any they don’t wish to join without extra charges.

The Wrap Up

This private guided tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the enchanting Marais Poitevin wetlands. From the scenic drive to the traditional boat trip and local cuisine, the experience provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural beauty, history, and culture. With a small group size, the tour ensures a personalized and memorable journey through this captivating landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: