Named for the two rivers — the Sèvre Niortaise and the Sèvre Nantaise — which originate in the region, Deux-Sèvres is a picturesque part of western France. Blessed with rich, verdant valleys, tree-lined riverbanks, farmland and vineyards, this is a terrific destination for outdoors explorers. History buffs, too, will delight in discovering heritage towns and villages peppered with beautiful churches, museums and small hotels. The best places to stay in Deux-Sèvres reflect this duality: charming Niort-based B&Bs and gorgeous rural châteaux await guests of all ages, tastes and budgets.

The region’s largest hub is riverside Niort, famed for its well-preserved old town, the medieval Musée du Donjon de Niort, enormous Place de la Brèche and the churches of Saint-André and Saint-Hilaire. Parthenay and Thouars are also lovely cultural destinations.

Admire the region’s landscapes by following hiking, cycling and horse riding trails through green valleys, stopping in little villages or enjoying vineyard tours and tastings. Canal and barge trips along the Sèvre Niortaise and the Sèvre Nantaise are wonderful, as is marvelling at the abundant flora and fauna of the magical Marais Poitevin. A remnant of what was once the Gulf of Poitou, this 970-square-kilometre region has been nicknamed ‘The Green Venice’ with good reason: it’s spectacular.

The best places to stay in Deux-Sèvres tend to fill up fast during the summer and school holidays, so book your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Deux-Sèvres

For a Chic B&B

• Maison La Porte Rouge is an attractive 20th-century mansion-turned-B&B with seven stylish, individually designed bedrooms. A short walk from Niort's old town, the house has a lovely garden, gym and swimming pool for cooling down after days of exploring. Expect big breakfasts in the communal dining room.
• La Chamoiserie, a smartly refurbished mansion, offers 16 guest rooms in the heart of Niort. Elegant interiors invite guests to unwind in style, with rooms clad in a soothing, grown-up palette of warm greys, blues and burgundys. Al fresco breakfasts on the terrace are a highlight. For well-heeled travellers.

For a Family-Friendly Escape

• Château de Saint Loup sur Thouet offers simple, historic rooms and suites with antique furniture and flexible spaces for families in a big historic castle. A warm and welcoming rural escape, with 50-hectares of grounds, an array of activities for guests of all ages and a great restaurant. Also a brilliant wedding venue.

For Absolute Luxury

• Alexandra Palace Hotel is a fabulous luxury hotel housed in an imposing 17th-century château. Feast on mouth-watering gourmet fare, play a round of golf on the 18-hole course next door and kick back in the gardens. Many of the 17 sumptuous rooms and suites have glittering chandeliers, classic wood panelling and glorious rural views. A seriously elegant escape.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to La Rochelle Airport, Nantes Atlantique Airport or Poitiers Airport and hop aboard a train, bus or taxi to your destination. Alternatively, arrange an airport pick-up through your hotel. You can also travel by TGV from Paris in around three hours.
• Western France is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the warmest weather, with temperatures peaking around 25°C from June to August — although this is also the busiest time of year. May, September or weekdays are ideal for quieter trips.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Niort.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in nearby Charente-Maritime.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Deux-Sèvres