La Rochelle Cruise Excursion to Green Venice & Wine Tasting

Embark on a vibrant Shore Excursion from La Rochelle Port of Call and visit the mysterious Poitevin Marsh on board a flat bottomed boat! 

Departing from La Rochelle Cruise Port, this Atlantic Coast half day private shore excursion will take you to the fascinating Natural Park of the 'Marais Poitevin' located in the Charente Maritime district.

Pick up at your Cruise Ship in La Rochelle

First, we will come and pick you up at your ship in La Rochelle Cruise Port. Meet your English speaking driver guide who will go over the itinerary and program of the day with you. Then, board your air conditioned vehicle and depart for the Marais Poitevin located in the Charente region.

Reach the Marais Poitevin & embark on a relaxing boat trip

The second largest wet marsh zone of France is on your program today. The Poitou Charente Marsh land, also known as the Green Venice (Venise Verte), was born by the forces of nature and is the combination of land and water associated to the hard work of man. The Dutch were the ones who drained most of the area in the 17th century, constructing rigoles that are tiny canals banked with poplars. The marsh is irrigated thanks to the Sèvre Niortaise, Vendée as well as smaller rivers.

Arrive in Coulon, a small traditional village of the Pays de la Loire, where you will board a flat bottomed boat to visit this unique area of France. Listen to the tales & legends of the area distilled by your guide who uses a "pigouille" (punt) to maneuver the embarkation.

As you slowly ride through an endless maze of green pools and streams, admire the wild irises, ruined churches, hidden marshes and golden orioles. A highlight of the tour will certainly be when your captain sets the water on fire! After the boat ride, enjoy some free time in the village of Coulon for a bit of shopping or why not visit the 'maison du marais poitevin' to get more information on the area?

Take part in a Wine Tasting Session in a local Winery

The Romans where the first to cultivate vines in this area of France. From the winery, one has a fantastic view on the Poitou Marsh that used to be covered by the sea. The family has been wine makers since the 1890's and today it is the 4th generation that tends to the vineyard.

The vines are planted on clay and limestone soils and the typical temperate oceanic climate are perfect for making a high quality wine. The wines produced here include reds that are generous, elegant and fruity.

The whites resemble the Loire Valley wines with freshness and fruit. All the wines produced at the property are blended with different grape varieties. We will stay around 1 hour for a tasting session of the different wines produced.

After the wine tasting session, it will be time to return to your Cruise ship in La Rochelle and it will be the end of our services.