Top 5 Poitou-Charentes Outdoor Adventures

So, you are looking for a change of pace, maybe? Like something way off the beaten path for your next getaway, maybe even something more scenic? Poitou-Charentes could be the place; that little spot in western France. We, so many of us, often skip right over it on the way to somewhere else, but hold on there; it just might be worth putting on your radar for adventures you can have outdoors. Discovering unique adventures is an activity for me. Trust me; you’ll want to make it one, too!

1. Kayaking the Marais Poitevin

Alright, let’s kick this off with the Marais Poitevin, which is also often called “the Green Venice,” so I suppose, right there, you realize that this isn’t any kind of regular swamp; right? This natural area is just crisscrossed with these peaceful canals. You can grab a kayak; it’s almost like one of the best ways to see it. Paddling quietly right on those waterways, you can look over to spot all the wildlife along the banks, like, too, the various types of birds. Some say the duckweed gives this very, very picturesque hue that is totally captivating. It can be pretty meditative and fun, too. Think about just gently paddling via tree tunnels; right? What a fantastic way to spend a morning.

By the way, you don’t have to go alone; sometimes, that isn’t the greatest idea anyway. In some respects, there are places which offer guided tours. That might be a better thing if you aren’t like me, a nature person; or you could ask a local for tips about which routes are the best. Another way to plan for your safety and to respect that calm atmosphere is by using an electric boat, actually, that just kind of glides without any noise. Plus, very many spots have docks to land where you can picnic or just stretch your legs; it’s almost nice to take your time when experiencing such peace and nature.

2. Cycling the Ile de Ré

The Ile de Ré, okay? If I am honest, it is, just possibly, one of those spots the French keep to themselves for holidays, yet maybe now the world can have this information, so here’s some information; basically, it’s like one big outdoor playground with plenty of bike paths; very, very level paths that mean you can just pedal casually past, seemingly, fields that go all the way to the sea, cute villages with houses that are whitewashed, and places you want to stop for oysters. A big network of bike paths is all over the place on Ile de Ré, so it is just right whether you’re with the family, someone athletic, or just seeking relaxation and enjoyment of the scenic sights. Explore the beauty of Re Island today!

As a matter of fact, if you did this, you could begin your cycling adventure right near the ferry dock in Saint-Martin-de-Ré. From there, you’d pedal via those salt marshes which are really cool and quite distinctive of the island. Another possibility, and in short; actually, this could be very scenic. So you might consider biking towards the Phare des Baleines; that is the lighthouse there on the end of the island. What to do when hungry? Many spots have local seafood like, or similar to, Moules frites, and the wineries make some superb opportunities to unwind when exploring.

3. Hiking in the Forêt de la Coubre

Are you a bit inclined to put on your hiking shoes and to get into the woods? So I wonder; has anyone ever tried going via the Forêt de la Coubre? That large coastal forest has a way of providing plenty of trails through the pine forests, all leading ultimately right up to those cliffs. Arguably, these places deliver vistas over the Atlantic. It does sound pretty terrific to listen to the surf while, just maybe, keeping on the watch to observe bird species unique to the coast.

You, too, like myself, would have so many options with the walking trails in this particular place. There could be an easy amble along the coastal paths, seemingly great for family excursions, and or tougher hikes for individuals looking for a tougher exercise session, that even ascend up dunes; might be great for photography anyway. In fact, this forest just sits along the coastline connecting the ocean and mainland environments in one space for you to enjoy! What about a walk in the late day with colors; sometimes the ocean just glows!

4. Surfing in Royan

Speaking of coasts, like Royan, it is a very famous location where surfers can ride their waves; too? Just the spot at the mouth of the Gironde estuary benefits just that little bit from waves right off the Atlantic that create excellent circumstances to ride your board. First of all, with beaches that are very welcoming and the climate is rather temperate, the area can be a wonderful surfing base; either when you just want to pick the hobby up or when refining all of your maneuvers on the water.

Arguably, many of the local surfing schools offer programs whether that is to teach new surfers; maybe in that case; very much like, you; all the fundamentals for that kind of start and to direct individuals via new stages when that happens. It’s almost as though you can hire boards right near to many beach locations which make it that easier; is that possible to check out Royan; you’d probably also want, honestly, to explore and chillax at the nearby bistros in town as you let the afternoon fade and the memories settle; right?

5. Exploring the Roman Ruins in Saintes

And what if you are fascinated with ancient history but still wish the outdoor life too? At the same time, maybe consider taking some moments at Saintes which, sometimes, includes Roman remains that are quite intriguing to look at. Seemingly founded by those guys many centuries back. This small French village can offer something fairly rare with what, almost is an historical book that is there in the land and in the stone!

Very much like how one of the highlights from here needs to be the Arena. Back then, this area formerly gave place to spectator happenings. At the moment; basically the architecture provides insight into previous eras when the entire region existed in a fashion that looks rather remote. You could enjoy walking right around these areas outside after; basically checking that scenic architecture can keep an exercise program fun, right? Anyway, remember it could be rather magical whenever locations merge physical exploration, together at all eras!