Discovery Day in the footsteps of the Builder Monks

About this tour

Spend a full day exploring the Marais Poitevin wetlands as medieval monks once did, combining waterborne wandering, abbey archaeology, and cycling through reclaimed marshland. Based in western France, this 7.5-hour outing weaves together a hour-long punt through serene canals, guided ruins of Maillezais Abbey, two-wheeled exploration of the landscape, and a sit-down lunch featuring local produce alongside a craft brewery visit to taste artisanal beers.

Highlights

• Hour-long traditional boat glide through canals
• Ruins of Maillezais Abbey and medieval engineering story
• Cycling guide-led route through marshland paths
• Three-course lunch: regional ham, heritage cheese, homemade briochette
• Craft brewery tasting session with local brewer

What to expect

You'll start on the water, poling gently through the Marais's quiet channels before heading to the abbey—a atmospheric skeleton of stone where monks drained and shaped this landscape centuries ago. A guide walks you through what remains and the labour it took. Mid-morning, you'll swap the boat for a bike and pedal through the flattened terrain at an easy pace. Lunch arrives in the village of Maillé: stuffed local vegetables, Vendée ham with squash salad, 'Tender Cow' cheese from the region's last marsh dairy, and warm briochette. The afternoon brewery visit lets you watch how beer is made and taste a few batches before heading home.

Good to know

All fitness levels welcome. Bring at least one litre of water and sun protection. Wine and aperitifs available at lunch for a small extra cost—call ahead to arrange. Gratuities not included. Travel time counts within the 7.5 hours.