Coulon

Visit Coulon, Poitou-Charentes

Coulon is in the Deux-Sevres department, west of Niort and at the centre of the Marais-Poitevin region. The waterside town lies on the banks of the Sèvre and has appointed itself 'capital of Green Venice' with some justification.

Coulon is well placed to explore the marshy region around the village which is also now listed as one of the most beautiful villages of France.

Exploring Coulon

The region has been inhabited a very long time - neolithic remains, bronze age items, and roman relics have all been found close by. However the village as we see it today 'only' dates back some 1200 years.

The village long retained an important role, because of its position as transport link on the river, with salt being a particularly important commodity - a role that diminished after the railways came to dominate transportation in the region.

Coulon today is a pleasant town alongside the river, so take time for a wander around the town before heading off into the marshes. Be sure to pass by the Place de la Coutume to see the Maison des Marais, established in the old customs house (businesses operating on the river used to have to pay custom taxes).

You can also visit the Church of Saint-Trinity, and to stroll along the town quais. The Church of Saint Trinity was originally established here in 830 but was rebuilt several times, the most recent being in the the 17th century after the earlier church was burned to the ground.

The village also pays particular attention to detail for example in its colourful shutters, which also adds to the appeal.

Attractions nearby

Coulon is a popular starting point for those hiring boats to venture into the peaceful marshes. For more details about activities and attractions in the region see details at Marais-Poitevin.

See Poitou-Charentes for more travel ideas...

Tourist classifications for Coulon: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 2*; One of the most beautiful village in France (plus beau villages);

Photos of Coulon

Click any picture to start the gallery

Suggested places to visit near Coulon, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Fontenay-le-Comte 23km; Surgeres 28km; Vouvant 31km; Marans 31km; Melle 36km; Parthenay 44km; La Rochelle 48km;

Coulon tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Eglise de Saint-Eulalie (Benet) - religious monument (5km) : Abbaye Royale (Nieul-sur-l'Autise) - religious monument (13km) : Abbaye Saint Pierre et Eglise de Saint Nicolas (Maillezais) - religious monument (13km) : Eglise de Notre-Dame de l'Assomption (Maille) - religious monument (16km) : Baie de l'Aiguillon - site of natural beauty (19km) : Eglise de Notre-Dame (Vouvant) - religious monument (31km) : Eglise de Saint-Pierre (Dampierre-sur-Boutonne) - religious monument (32km) : Eglise de Saint Hilaire (Melle) - religious monument (35km) :

See more places and a map at places near Coulon