Trails in Deux-Sèvres

You might think that the west of France is all flat, but think again quickly! 😲 By embarking on a trail in Deux-Sèvres, you'll soon discover the unexpected reliefs of the Gâtine and its sunken paths that really challenge your legs 🐐. It's the perfect place for a great nature race amidst a rich and preserved biodiversity 🌿. Further south, the majestic Marais Poitevin opens its mysterious canals, often called the Green Venice, where you might almost expect to see a fantastic creature emerge around a pier 🐸. It's no wonder that the famous director Henri-Georges Clouzot, born in Niort, had such a keen sense of suspense 🎬. The Niort prefecture, dominated by its imposing Dungeon, plunges you directly into a fascinating medieval atmosphere ⚔️. And if you love ancient history, the department is home to the Tumulus of Bougon, megalithic monuments much older than the pyramids of Egypt🏺.

Running on these trails is great, but indulging afterward is even better 🤤. Every good race in Deux-Sèvres necessarily ends with a worthy refreshment 🧀. You can't leave without tasting the Tourteau fromagé, that famous cake blackened on top which was born from an incredible cooking mistake in the nineteenth century 🥧. You can also spread some of the famous Échiré butter on a nice brioche, served on the greatest gastronomic tables around the world 🧈. The illustrious René Caillié, an explorer native to the area, must have covered quite the distance to reach Timbuktu in his time 🌍. Closer to us, renowned regional athletes like long-distance runner from Bressuire Hugo Hay honed their skills on these farmlands before shining internationally 🏆.

You got it, the playground is particularly vast, ranging from the great plains of Thouars to the splendid bocage of Bressuire, passing through the charming town of Parthenay 🏘️. Even if you're not facing a dizzying alpine elevation, the constant relaunches of the local valleys will make your thighs burn severely 🔥. On Finishers, we have selected for you some unmissable gems from our agenda 💎. In March, come test yourself at the Course Denfert in Saint-Maixent-l'École to kick off your season well 🏃‍♂️. If you like the city vibe, the Urban Trail of Niort in May is made for you 🏙️.

That same month of May, you can also dive into the heart of the marsh with the famous Maraisthon Foulées in Coulon 🛶. In June, pay tribute to our famous explorer by participating in the René Caillié Foulées in Mauzé-sur-le-Mignon 🧭. Still in June, the Sarabande in the heart of the Thouet Valley in Airvault will offer you grand and verdant landscapes 🌳. To end your year beautifully, you can even brave the winter mud with the same determination as our local athletes ❄️.