Free walking tours in Magné and what to see

Must-sees

Magné is a village in Deux-Sèvres, on the doorstep of Niort, in the wet Marais Poitevin, the area of canals known as Green Venice. It sits between the Sèvre Niortaise and other channels, crossed by several bridges; the best known is a 19th-century metal lift bridge from the days when the river carried goods. Next to the village, a lock with its lock-keeper’s house recalls that river past.

In the centre is the church of Sainte-Catherine, from the early 16th century and a historic monument, with an 18th-century altarpiece and more recent stained glass. At the highest point stands the neo-Gothic chapel of Sainte-Macrine, dedicated to the patron saint of boatmen. A short, flat trail links the village’s old harbours, with panels explaining life in the marsh. But the best thing is to get into a boat and glide along the ash-lined canals.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Magné. What Civitatis offers is a boat trip on the canals, guided by a boatman, the classic way to see the marsh. The village and the harbours trail are easy to explore on your own. If you want to see more, neighbouring Coulon has landing stages and boat and bike hire, and from Niort there are cycle routes heading into Green Venice.

How long to spend

The boat trip usually lasts one or two hours. With some time for the church, the bridge and the harbours trail, Magné can be seen in half a day. With a whole day you can add Coulon and its riverside centre, or cycle the towpaths between the canals. With two days, tour the marsh villages, such as Arçais, and visit central Niort.

Where to stay

Magné has country cottages and guest rooms by the water, ideal for anyone seeking calm who wants to head out early by boat or bike. Coulon, the neighbouring village, has more tourist facilities and a lively atmosphere in season. Niort, a few kilometres away, has all kinds of hotels and a train station, useful if you arrive without a car. To sleep surrounded by canals, the villages of Arçais and La Garette are another option.