Is the Vélo Francette suitable for beginners?

Yes, if you only do part of it. In the Vendée Marais Poitevin, the route is flat, safe and very accessible. Perfect for a first tour.

Is it possible to do only part of the route?

Yes, you can! You can cross the Marais Poitevin from La Rochelle to Niort (90 km).

Where can I find the complete guide to the Vélo Francette® route?

The guide is on sale in the shops of our Tourist Offices (Maillezais, Damvix, Fontenay-le-Comte, Vouvant, Mouilleron-Saint-Germain).

Where can I hire a bike in the Vendée Marais Poitevin?

You don’t need a legendary bike to set off on an adventure! Our bike hire companies across the country can provide you with everything you need: classic bikes, electric bikes, tandems or trailers for your little equestrians. Choose your faithful steed and set off for freedom… Discover our bike hire companies

Where can I get my bike repaired?

Don’t panic, even the greatest heroes sometimes die! In the Vendée Marais Poitevin region, there are a number of repair workshops ready to put your trusty steed back on its feet. Go to the list of bike repairers

Vélo Francette A cycling route through the heart of the Marais Poitevin

A great crossing… a gentle version

The Vélo Francette® is an adventure of over 600 km linking La Rochelle to the beaches of Ouistreham. It’s a legendary route that crosses the west of France… and takes on a whole new dimension here. Here, you cross the famous Green Venice.

Cycling through the Marais Poitevin Immersion in the heart of nature

The Vélo ^Francette® passes through a unique area: the Marais Poitevin.

flat, accessible paths
waterside sections along the Sèvre Niortaise river
ubiquitous flora and fauna
departures for the boat trip

No performance here. Just the pleasure of cycling!

The stages in Vendée Marais Poitevin

Accessible and progressive routes

Marans → Damvix: 28 km
A gentle introduction to the Marais Poitevin, between water and nature.
Damvix → Coulon: 20 km
A peaceful route, ideal for making the most of the Venise Verte landscape.

These stages are flat, accessible to all and perfect for a family outing or a leisurely tour.

See the full itinerary

28.0km

CyclotouristEasy
Linear

Linéaire Vélo Francette® de Marans à Damvix

20.0km

CyclotouristEasy
Linear

Linéaire Vélo Francette® de Damvix à Coulon

Frequently asked questions

Is the Vélo Francette suitable for beginners?
Yes, if you only do part of it. In the Vendée Marais Poitevin, the route is flat, safe and very accessible. Perfect for a first tour.
Is it possible to do only part of the route?
Yes, you can! You can cross the Marais Poitevin from La Rochelle to Niort (90 km).
Where can I find the complete guide to the Vélo Francette® route?
The guide is on sale in the shops of our Tourist Offices (Maillezais, Damvix, Fontenay-le-Comte, Vouvant, Mouilleron-Saint-Germain).
Where can I hire a bike in the Vendée Marais Poitevin?
You don’t need a legendary bike to set off on an adventure!
Our bike hire companies across the country can provide you with everything you need: classic bikes, electric bikes, tandems or trailers for your little equestrians.
Choose your faithful steed and set off for freedom…
Discover our bike hire companies
Where can I get my bike repaired?
Don’t panic, even the greatest heroes sometimes die!
In the Vendée Marais Poitevin region, there are a number of repair workshops ready to put your trusty steed back on its feet.
Go to the list of bike repairers