The programme
A living marsh
From the Venise Verte pier at Le Mazeau, the group is invited to board a traditional boat called a “Plate”, which was once used to transport cattle between the meadows. As soon as the boatman strikes the “pigouille”, the large stick used to steer the boat, the group enters a landscape of water and greenery that reveals all the uniqueness of the Marais Poitevin. The nicknames “cathedral of greenery” and “green Venice” take on their full meaning. Here, canals, meadows and lines of trees tell the story of an area that has been shaped over time. A stroll through this peaceful setting, where nature meets the human presence, will give you a whole new perspective.
A truly privileged interlude
On board, your boat guide, trained by the Parc Naturel Régional du Marais Poitevin, provides an educational commentary and shares his knowledge of the marsh, its history, fauna and flora. The walk becomes a real moment of exchange with the group. Sailing with a pigouille adds a strong, simple and memorable local touch to the experience. At the end of the tour, your guide will reveal the secrets of the marshes with a demonstration of fire-making on the water.
A clear environmental approach
The Venise Verte landing stage is traditional and family-friendly, and has managed to remain authentic. The organisation has made a number of commitments: soft mobility, digital sobriety, eco-responsible purchasing, reducing waste, controlling consumption, preserving biodiversity and helping to replant the pollarded trees of the Marais Poitevin, which have fallen victim to a disease.
