Nature reserves in Poitou-Charentes

Where peace, nature and real French life come together

If you are looking for a nature holiday in France, Poitou-Charentes is a region offering peace, space and a typical French atmosphere. Here, between the Loire Valley and the Atlantic coast, you will find a landscape that is as varied as it is relaxing. From gently rolling hills and vast forests to rivers, marshes and vineyards.
Are you staying at one of FranceComfort's holiday parks? Then you can experience this landscape up close. From Domaine Les Forges, L’Aveneau – Vieille Vigne and Bourg Est – Vigelière you can drive to countless nature reserves in Poitou-Charentes, each with its own character, in less than two hours.

Our parks in the region     Our homes in the region

Natuurgebieden 2a Poitou-Charentes Cognac vakantie Frankrijk.jpg

Nature through the seasons

The Poitou-Charentes region can be recognized by its seasons. In spring, the fields turn yellow with rapeseed and red with poppies, while migratory birds return to the marshes of the Marais Poitevin. In summer, the scent of herbs hangs in the air, sunflowers turn towards the sun and the mild climate is ideal for walking or cycling. In autumn, the forests of Les Forges and Mervent turn into a palette of copper and gold, the grapes are harvested and you can buy chestnuts, mushrooms and goat's cheese at the markets.
Winter is quiet and mild: mist over the valleys, silence in the forests, ideal for those who want to experience nature at its purest.
You can read more about these natural rhythms on Nouvelle-Aquitaine Tourisme.

Walking and cycling in the Poitou-Charentes

The Poitou-Charentes is a beautiful area for walkers and cyclists. Hundreds of kilometres of routes lead through forests, valleys and along rivers.

Hiking

  • GR36 – a long-distance trail from Normandy to the Pyrenees, crossing the Deux-Sèvres.
  • Sentier de la Vallée du Thouet – 10 km past castles, bridges and vineyards.
  • Bois de l'Hermitain – short forest walks between Parthenay and Niort, ideal for families.

You can find more hiking inspiration on hiking in the Poitou-Charentes.

Cycling

  • Vélo Francette – an award-winning route from the Atlantic coast to the Loire.
  • Voie Verte Niort–Coulon – car-free path through the heart of the Marais Poitevin.
  • Flow Vélo – along the Charente River through the Cognac region.

More cycling routes can be found on cycling in the Poitou-Charentes.

The climate of the Poitou-Charentes

With more than 2,200 hours of sunshine per year, the Poitou-Charentes is one of the sunniest regions in western France. Thanks to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, the winters are mild and the summers pleasantly warm.

Average temperatures:

  • Spring: 18–22 °C
  • Summer: 25–28 °C
  • Autumn: 17–22 °C

This makes the region particularly suitable for an active holiday in nature.

  

The most beautiful nature reserves within a two hour drive of Les Forges

1. Marais Poitevin

Distance:± 95 km |Travel time:1 hr 15 min.
One of France's most famous nature reserves is the Marais Poitevin. This nature reserve is often referred to as the Green Venice. It is a maze of waterways, alder forests and meadows and covers thousands of hectares. From villages such as Coulon or Arçais, hire a traditional flat-bottomed boat and glide silently through the water. Along the way you will hear frogs, see kingfishers and sometimes storks. This is a great destination for families: boat trips, picnics and short hiking trails combine nature and relaxation.

2. Vallée du Thouet

Distance: ± 50 km | Travel time: 45 min.
The Vallée du Thouet is a lovely river landscape between Parthenay and Thouars. Along the water are small villages, vineyards and old bridges. You can walk or cycle along the Vélo Francette, or visit the castle of Thouars. In spring, the valley is full of flowers, in autumn the grapes shine in the sun. A beautiful destination for families who want to combine peace and exercise.

3. Forêt de l’Hermitain

Distance:± 35 km |Travel time:30 min
A dense forest full of oaks and chestnuts between Parthenay and Niort. The scent of moss, the sound of birds and the softness of the forest floor make this a lovely place for a morning walk. For families: short, well-marked paths, plenty of shade and safe picnic areas.

4. Réserve Naturelle du Cébron

Distance: ± 22 km | Journey time: 20 min
Lake Cébron is a protected bird sanctuary supervised by nature conservation organisations. On the 7km long route around the lake, you can see spoonbills, ducks, grebes and ospreys. Highly recommended for families with curious children. Bring your binoculars!

5. Forêt de Chizé and Zoodyssée

Distance: ± 90 km | Travel time: 1 h 10 min
The Forêt de Chizé is one of the oldest oak forests in western France. Here you will also find the Zoodyssée, a zoo where European animal species live in their natural habitat. The area is known thanks to research by the CNRS into biodiversity and ecology. A combination of learning and experience, ideal for families.

6. Forêt de Mervent-Vouvant

Distance: ± 95 km | Journey time: 1 h 15 min
In the south of the Vendée lies the vast Forêt de Mervent-Vouvant. The forest is a mosaic of ancient oaks, rivers, and rock formations, and is home to countless stories of knights and fairies. In the heart of the nature reserve lies a large reservoir where you can go canoeing or rent a pedal boat. The medieval village of Vouvant belongs to Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. In collaboration with France.fr,  local tourism here promotes hiking trails that connect history with nature. For families, this is a paradise of adventure: climbing forests, viewpoints and safe trails for children. Visit this nature reserve from your villa in Poitou-Charentes.

Natuurgebieden 4 Poitou-Charentes Ambazac vakantie Frankrijk.jpg
Natuurgebieden 6 Poitou-Charentes varen marais poitevin vakantie Frankrijk.jpg
Natuurgebieden 5 Poitou-Charentes kanovaren vakantie Frankrijk.jpg

7. Vallée de la Vienne

Distance: ± 110 km | Journey time: 1 h 15 min
The river Vienne flows through hilly terrain with forests, rocks and castles.
In Montmorillon you can go canoeing, hiking or visit the city of books. The region combines nature with culture — exactly what makes the Poitou-Charentes so special.

8. Forêt de Moulière

Distance: ± 95 km | Journey time: 1 h 10 min
One of the largest forests in western France. Wide paths wind between pines, oaks and ferns. After a walk, you can round off the day with a visit to the futuristic Futuroscope park near Poitiers.

9. Vallée de la Charente

Distance: ± 130 km | Journey time: 1 h 30 min
The river Charente winds past villages such as Cognac and Saintes. Walk or cycle through vineyards, visit distilleries and enjoy the sun-drenched landscape. At Charente Tourisme you will find routes along the most beautiful places.

10. Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne

Distance:± 150 km |Travel time:1 h 50 min
East of the Poitou-Charentes lies the Parc de la Brenne, a nature reserve with more than a thousand lakes and ponds. Wooden walkways and observation huts bring you close to herons, falcons and otters. For families, there are short walking routes with educational signs.

11. Vallée du Clain

Distance: ± 90 km | Journey time: 1 h 10 min
The Vallée du Clain forms a calm green corridor south of Poitiers. The river meanders past meadows, mills and rocky banks. The surrounding area is ideal for short walks or bike rides; at Vivonne you will find picnic areas by the water and canoes for a relaxing afternoon. The Vallée du Clain is often mentioned on Nouvelle-Aquitaine Tourisme as one of the best places to experience rural France without crowds.

12. Réserve Naturelle du Pinail

Distance: ± 105 km | Journey time: 1 h 20 min
The Réserve du Pinail, east of Poitiers, is a unique ecosystem with thousands of small ponds – remains of old gravel pits. The nature reserve is being scientifically studied by the CNRS and is an example of successful nature restoration projects. The short 3 km walking route takes you past viewpoints where you can see dragonflies, salamanders and rare aquatic plants. Perfect for families looing for an educational nature experience.

13. Vallée de la Gartempe

Distance: ± 120 km | Travel time: 1 h 45 min
The Vallée de la Gartempe is a fusion of nature and culture.
Along the river are forests, cliffs and medieval villages. At the heart of the exhibition is the Abbey of Saint-Savin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The abbey contains frescoes from the 11th century and is surrounded by rolling landscapes. Here you will experience how humans have lived in harmony with nature for centuries – a core value of sustainable tourism in France.

Our parks in Poitou-Charentes     Our homes in Poitou-Charentes  

  

14. Forêt de Benon

Distance: ± 110 km | Travel time: 1 h 30 min
Between Niort and La Rochelle lies the Forêt de Benon: a dense deciduous forest that offers pleasant shade in summer. The wide forest paths make it suitable for families and recreational cyclists. According to France.fr, this is one of the "lungs" of the western Poitou-Charentes – a place to recharge between nature and tranquillity.

15. Forêt de la Coubre

Distance:± 160 km |Travel time:2 hours
The Forest of La Coubre is located between Royan and La Palmyre. Here, hiking and cycling routes wind through pine forests and over sand dunes, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic view of Île d'Oléron. The area is managed under the guidelines of Parcs Naturels Régionaux de France, which promote sustainable coastal development.
16. Étang de Massonne

Distance: ± 150 km | Journey time: 1 h 50 min
The Étang de Massonne consists of shallow lakes and marshes where herons, grebes and spoonbills breed. It is a true paradise for bird watchers. Combine a visit with a walk through Saintes, where Roman ruins remind us of the region's past.

17. Vallée de la Seugne

Distance:± 145 km |Travel time:1 h 50 min
The Vallée de la Seugne offers a typical southern French landscape – sunflowers, vineyards and small rivers. Along Jonzac, you will find hiking and biking trails, markets, and thermal baths. This valley is promoted by Charente Tourism as one of the most authentic places in the region. Visit the valley with your partner or family and enjoy this beautiful nature reserve in the Poitou-Charentes.

18. Côte Sauvage

Distance: ± 165 km | Travel time: 2 hours
Along the Atlantic coast near La Palmyre lies the Côte Sauvage: a protected nature reserve with dunes, pine forests and kilometres of sandy beaches.
The air smells of sea salt and pine, the light is bright and warm. According to the Côte Sauvage Tourist Office, this is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in the country.

19. The Cognac region

Distance: ± 140 km | Journey time: 1 h 45 min
The Cognac region is world-famous for its spirits, but it is also a beautiful nature reserve. Between Cognac and Jarnac you will find rolling hills with vineyards, forests and rivers. Take a walk through the vineyards or cycle along the Charente River.
Local producers welcome visitors for tours and tastings of Cognac and Pineau des Charentes. See Charente Tourisme for addresses.

20. Haut-Poitou

Distance: ± 90 km | Journey time: 1 h 15 min
The Haut-Poitou region is less well known, but loved by wine lovers.
The villages of Neuville-de-Poitou and Mirebeau are surrounded by rolling vineyards. Visit local wineries and taste fresh white wines that pair perfectly with regional dishes. According to the local tourist board tourisme-vienne, the vineyards stretch across the hills and produce white, red and rosé wines.
You can easily combine a visit to this region with a trip to Futuroscope or Aquascope in Poitiers.

Nature reserves in other regions

Also check out the information about nature reserves in the Languedoc, Provence and the Dordogne.

Natuurgebieden 7 Poitou-Charentes streekproducten wijn kaas honing.jpg

Local products – the taste of nature

The nature of the Poitou-Charentes determines the flavour of its cuisine. At markets you will find fresh vegetables, goat’s cheese, honey from the Forêt de Chizé and wine from the Haut-Poitou. Along the coast, oysters and mussels are sold straight from the sea. Visit a Saturday morning market in Parthenay or Thouars, where local farmers offer their products. According to the Poitou-Charentes tourist guide, sampling local products is an essential part of any nature holiday in France.
The local products are mainly sold at the markets. Large markets are held on French public holidays, especially on the 14th of July, the national holiday of France.

Sustainable enjoyment of nature

The region is strongly committed to environmental protection. Areas such as the Marais Poitevin and the Parc de la Brenne are carefully managed to protect flora and fauna.
Visitors are asked to stay on paths, take trash with them and support local initiatives.

FranceComfort also works sustainably: parks are maintained with local planting, energy-efficient lighting and environmentally friendly methods.

Nature and history go hand in hand

The Poitou-Charentes has a rich past that can be felt everywhere.
At Saint-Savin, the abbey (UNESCO) is located on the Gartempe; in Vouvant, you can walk through medieval alleys; and Saintes displays Roman remains on the Charente.
According to UNESCO, this region is an example of how heritage and nature reinforce each other.

Nature for families with children

Most nature reserves are suitable for families with children.

  • In the Zoodyssée, children learn about European animals.
  • At Lake Cébron there are bird hides and observation points.
  • In Mervent they can climb, canoe and play in the forest.

Everywhere you go, you will find peaceful picnic spots, short walking routes and villages with terraces and ice cream parlours.

Your stay in the middle of the greenery

If you want to combine nature with comfort, you will find the ideal base in Les Forges.
The three parks of FranceComfort are located in the middle of greenery. There are several holiday homes with private swimming pools and luxury villas with air conditioning which means you can book a luxurious and comfortable holiday.

Cognac 4 Frankrijk vakantie comfort Charente likeur wijn luxe villa tour champagne.jpg

Practical tips

From Les Forges you drive:

  • west to the Marais Poitevin and La Rochelle (± 1 hr 15 min). Combine a boat trip through the marshes with a day at the seaside. Along the route you will find charming villages such as Coulon and Niort.
  • east tothe Vallée de la Gartempe or the Parc de la Brenne (1.5 – 2 hours). Beautiful hiking trails, viewpoints and the UNESCO Abbey of Saint-Savin along the way.
  • south to the Cognac region (± 1 hour 30 min). Cycling tours along vineyards, tastings and towns such as Cognac and Saintes.
Natuurgebieden 8 Poitou-Charentes haute vienne vallei Frankrijk wandelen in vakantie.jpg

Weather and conditions

The Poitou-Charentes region enjoys plenty of sunshine, but also occasional short showers. Check the weather forecast (e.g. on Météo France) before departure. In summer, temperatures can rise quickly, so it is best to plan your walks in the morning.

Respect for nature and the environment

  • Stay on the marked paths and do not leave any rubbish behind.
  • Keep your distance from animals, especially in breeding areas.
  • Buy local products or use local guides.

Tips for a day out in the Poitou-Charentes countryside

A day trip from your holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes requires some preparation. The climate is mild, but the landscape is varied: forests, open fields, marshes and coastal areas.

Clothing

  • Airy and breathable in summer: choose linen or cotton, a cap and sunglasses.
  • Layers in spring and autumn: cool in the morning, warm later on. A light fleece jacket or windbreaker is ideal.
  • Sturdy hiking boots with good tread: some paths, especially in the Marais Poitevin or the Vallée du Thouet, can be damp or uneven.
  • Long trousers for walks through woods and scrubland — useful against insects.

What to bring

  • Water bottle or hydration pack – hydration is especially important in summer.
  • Sunscreen and hat – the sun is strong, even in mild temperatures.
  • Insect spray – useful in marshes or at dusk.
  • Binoculars – many areas, such as Lake Cébron or the Parc de la Brenne, are bird paradises.
  • Picnic or local delicacies – many nature parks have picnic tables or quiet spots along the water.
  • Paper map or offline route – mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas.

Frequently asked questions about nature reserves in Poitou-Charentes

1. What are the most beautiful nature reserves in Poitou-Charentes?
Well-known nature reserves are the Marais Poitevin, the Forêt de Mervent-Vouvant, Lake Cébron, the Vallée de la Charente and the Parc de la Brenne.

2. Is Poitou-Charentes suitable for families?
Yes, the region is quiet and child-friendly. In areas like Zoodyssée and Lake Cébron, there are hiking trails, playgrounds, and safe picnic spots.

3. What is the best time to travel to Poitou-Charentes for a nature holiday?
Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling. In summer you can enjoy sun and water, winter offers peace and quiet.

4. What activities are popular in the nature of Poitou-Charentes?
Hiking, cycling, canoeing and bird watching. Also visit the Abbey of Saint-Savin ( a beautiful building according to UNESCO)  or villages such as Vouvant and Thouars.

5. How long is the drive from Les Forges to the most famous nature reserves?
Most of the nature reserves are less than two hours from Les Forges: the Marais Poitevin at 1h15, Mervent-Vouvant at 1h15 and the Cognac region at 1h45.

6. What animals can you see in the nature of Poitou-Charentes?
Forests and swamps are home to deer, foxes, herons, kingfishers and even otters. In the Zoodyssée park, you can get up close and personal with European animal species.

Book your holiday in the heart of nature

Whether you choose hiking, cycling or just peace and quiet, the Poitou-Charentes offers everything for an unforgettable nature holiday in France.
Book your stay at FranceComfort today and discover the charm of Les Forges for yourself – where comfort, tranquility and nature come together.

Our parks in the region     Our homes in the region     Order an Environmental sticker     Order a Toll badge