Deux-Sèvres: peace, nature and charm in Southwest France
A holiday in the Poitou-Charentes combines the best of France: beautiful nature, interesting cities, a rich culture and delicious food. From the luxury holiday parks of FranceComfort, you will discover the charm of Deux-Sèvres in peace and comfort. The Poitou-Charentes region is located in the southwest of France and is one of the most popular destinations among Dutch and Belgian holidaymakers. The region is known for its sunny climate with an average temperature of 26 degrees, varied landscape and hospitable atmosphere. Here you have everything you need for a relaxing holiday: picturesque villages, historic towns, extensive nature reserves and countless sights. At the heart of this region is the department of Deux-Sèvres, an area where peace, culture and nature come together. If you are looking for comfort and quality, FranceComfort's luxury holiday parks are the perfect starting point for exploring the region.
Check out our beautiful parks in the Poitou - Charentes region
To drive through many places in the Poitou - Charentes you will be required to have the French environmental sticker "Crit'Air". Make sure you purchase one before going on holiday. It is also recommended to purchase a toll badge, as it ensures a pleasant journey to your chalet apartment in the Portes du Soleil in the South of France.
Environmental sticker Toll badge Laws and rules Packing list
The diverse appeal of Poitou-Charentes
Poitou-Charentes is a region with a rich history and an authentic character. The tranquil charm of the French countryside is combined here with lively cities and interesting cultural spots. The mild Atlantic climate ensures that it is pleasant here from early spring to late autumn. The Deux-Sèvres has a landscape of rolling hills, sunflower fields, rivers and forests. There is no mass tourism in the region, so you can fully enjoy the peace, space and nature. It's a place where French life has retained its original pace – ideal for holidaymakers who want to relax, but also want to see and do something in the area.
Shopping and culture: Poitiers, Niort and Angoulême
If you love shopping and culture, don't miss out on visiting Poitiers, Niort and Angoulême.
Poitiers is a lively university town with a charming historic centre. The narrow streets, cozy squares and atmospheric cafes invite you for a stroll. In the boutiques you will find French fashion, artisan products and nice souvenirs.
Niort, on the Sèvre River, combines modern amenities with traditional charm. You can go shopping in the city centre or at one of the local markets selling regional products such as cheeses, honey and wine.
Angoulême, known for its international comic festival, has a character of its own. The town is built on a hill and offers a magnificent view over the Charente valley. In addition to shops and galleries, there are also impressive city walls and street art: everywhere you look, you see murals that refer to comic book culture.
Fun for the whole family
The Poitou-Charentes region offers many family-friendly attractions. Three absolute highlights are Futuroscope, Puy du Fou and Aquascope.
Futuroscope, near Poitiers, is a unique theme park where technology and imagination come together. Visitors can watch spectacular 3D and 4D movies, take immersive simulator rides, and attend interactive performances. The park is ideal for children and adults who love innovation and entertainment.
Puy du Fou has a completely different experience. The park has been voted the best theme park in the world several times. Here you will travel back in time thanks to impressive shows with knights, gladiators and Vikings. The sets, costumes and effects are top-notch and will guarantee an unforgettable day for the whole family.
Aquascope is a modern water park for young and old. With slides, swimming pools and relaxation areas, it offers a welcome change during hot summer days.
The nature of Deux-Sèvres
The nature of Deux-Sèvres is varied and inviting. To the south is the Marais Poitevin, a vast marshland that is also called the "Green Venice" of France. It consists of hundreds of kilometers of waterways, bordered by willows and poplars. You can rent a boat here or take a guided tour through the quiet landscape where herons, ducks and dragonflies cross the water surface. Outside the marshland, there is a landscape of rolling fields and charming villages. The region is ideal for nature lovers, hikers and cyclists looking for peace and beauty. There are also many hiking trails and viewpoints in the immediate vicinity of the FranceComfort parks.
Local products from Poitou - Charentes
Poitou-Charentes' cuisine is pure and authentic, with ingredients that come directly from the land. Taste the Chabichou du Poitou, a goat's cheese full of character that has been made in the region for centuries. Other specialties include Farci Poitevin, a spicy vegetable pie, and Mogettes, white beans that are often served with meat or fish. The nearby Charente region is known for its cognac and local wines. In many villages you can visit winegrowers and taste their products. The weekly markets sell fresh vegetables, fruit, cheeses, honey and artisan bread. It is a pleasure to walk around here, with the smells of spices and the friendliness of locals.
Regional dishes
- Eel dish Matelote d'anguilles
- Sauce aux Lumas (snails with red wine)
- Goat lamb with green garlic
- Country-made ham with salt and cognac
- Pineau is the most famous drink
Walking and cycling in the French countryside
For those who like to be active in the great outdoors, Deux-Sèvres offers countless possibilities. There are well-marked walking and cycling routes that wind through forests, meadows and villages. Especially around Les Forges and Saint-Maixent-l'École, many routes have been set out that vary in length and difficulty.
Cyclists can choose between quiet country roads and challenging routes with elevation changes. Along the way, you will pass by old bridges, mills and small cafes where you can take a break with an espresso or local pastries.
The surroundings of the FranceComfort parks are excellent for exploring by bike. Many guests bring their own bikes or rent an e-bike on site to explore the rolling countryside in comfort.
History, castles and villages of character
Those who love history will be in their element in Poitou-Charentes. Castles, abbeys and ancient churches stand throughout the region, bearing witness to a rich past.
Visit Parthenay, a medieval city with narrow streets, city gates and an impressive citadel. The city has a lively weekly market and several good restaurants.
Coulon, which lies in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, is also worth visiting. The village is located right on the water and has a charming harbor, craft shops and terraces overlooking the canals.
A special monument is the Castle of Coudray-Salbart, near Niort. This well-preserved castle from the 13th century is one of the most beautiful medieval fortresses in western France.
Water sports and swimming fun
The Poitou-Charentes has a lot to offer water lovers. The many lakes, rivers and recreational lakes are perfect for canoeing, fishing, supping and swimming. In summer, the water is pleasantly warm and there are several natural swimming locations with beaches and picnic areas. La Rochelle and Île de Ré are located on the coast. FranceComfort holiday parks have spacious swimming pools with sun loungers and sun terraces. Here you can relax by the water while your children have fun in the children's pool or at the entertainment programme.
Events and festivals
The Poitou-Charentes is not only beautiful, but also lively. Markets, festivals and village parties take place throughout the year. Angoulême International Comic Strip Festival is the most famous event in the area and attracts thousands of visitors every January. During the summer, music festivals, open-air performances and gourmet markets are organised everywhere.
Poitiers and Niort regularly host cultural events such as concerts, exhibitions and theatrical productions. These festivities give the region extra colour and make a summer holiday here particularly atmospheric.
🔗 Read also: Poitiers in Poitou - Charentes
Comfortable accommodation at FranceComfort
FranceComfort holiday parks are located in the middle of nature but still near to villages and sights.
- Aveneau – Vieille Vigne luxury comfortable villas with privacy
- Domaine les Forges holiday park for families.
- Bourg Est – Vigelière villa park for those seeking peace and quiet.
The parks are spacious, with luxury holiday homes that are equipped with modern facilities such as a well-equipped kitchen, WiFi and comfortable beds. Several houses have a private pool, all other houses have access to the central pools.
Tourist activities and places of interest
- Walking
- Cycling
- Horse riding
- Swimming
- Canoeing
- Tree climbing course
- Golf at Golf des Forges
- Amusement parks
- Futuroscope theme park
- Puy du Fou animation park
- Animal parks
- Tourist villages
- Castles and fortresses
- Recreational lakes
- Marais de Poitevin
- Silver mine Melle
- Cognac
- Vineyards
- Wine tastings
- La Rochelle and île de Ré
- Shopping in Poitiers or Niort
- Festivals
- Events
- Markets
- Village festivals
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions: Holidays in Poitou-Charentes
1. What is the best time to go to Poitou-Charentes?
The Poitou-Charentes region has a mild and sunny climate with warm summers and mild winters. Spring (April–June) is ideal for those who love peace and quiet, blooming nature and pleasant temperatures. In the summer months (July–August), it's livelier, with more events and outdoor activities. September is also a wonderful month – the weather is often still sunny, whilst it is quieter seen as it is not in the high season.
2. Who would enjoy a holiday in Poitou-Charentes?
Poitou-Charentes is a region that appeals to many different types of holidaymakers:
Families with children appreciate the safe environment, swimming pools and family activities such as Futuroscope.
Couples and seniors like to come for the peace, nature and the authentic villages.
Active holidaymakers will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, canoeing or golfing.
3. Do FranceComfort holiday homes in Poitou-Charentes have a private pool and air conditioning?
Yes, several FranceComfort holiday homes in Poitou-Charentes have air conditioning and a private pool.
4. Are there UK-speaking managers present at the FranceComfort parks?
Yes, the FranceComfort parks in Poitou-Charentes have UK-speaking managers. This makes contact pleasant and easy, especially on arrival or if you want tips on excursions in the area.
5. Is there enough to do and see in the area?
Yes for sure! The Poitou-Charentes offers many opportunities for excursions. Visit historic cities such as Poitiers, Niort and Angoulême, discover Marais Poitevin by boat or spend a day at Futuroscope or Puy du Fou. In addition, there are tourist villages, castles, markets and wineries in the immediate vicinity. There is also plenty to do for children – from going to swimming pools to adventure parks.
