Moncoutant offers a range of experiences for a stay: the Pescalis natural area, focused on freshwater environments; non-motorised routes; and local railway history. There are also activities with clearly defined formats and a year-round producers’ market. When choosing a hotel, it may help to first consider whether you would like to focus on observing nature, following a specific route, getting active on a non-motorised trail or exploring cultural heritage.

Pescalis: Freshwater, wildlife observation and activities

Pescalis is a 150-hectare natural area dedicated to freshwater environments. From observation hides and a ford along the Sentier des étangs de Pescalis, you can watch the birds that find refuge at Étang des Chirons. Conditions at the ford can vary, so take this into account when planning your visit.

The trail also features an orienteering course. So, in addition to birdwatching, it offers a standalone activity focused on navigation. At Pescalis, both self-guided and guided visits are available. This visitor service may vary by season; check in advance which option is available for your visit.

Pescalis offers no-kill sport fishing for predatory fish, carp, coarse fish and sturgeon. Check that the activity is available before travelling. Mini-Golf de Pescalis is another specific option: its nine-hole course is right next to the playground and table tennis table. Wildlife observation, fishing and a clearly defined course each offer a different focus.

Puzzle Trail and Voie Verte

The Tèrra-Aventura route “Oh la belle prise!” offers a puzzle trail in Pescalis. A free smartphone app provides clues and riddles that lead to a treasure and the Poï’z “Zeïdon”. The treasure hunt takes two hours, covers four kilometres and is accessible by bike. Its duration and length help you plan this activity. App content and access arrangements may change, so check the latest information in advance.

The Voie Verte is a dedicated route reserved exclusively for non-motorised travel, such as walking and cycling. Moncoutant is a starting point for the Voie Verte. It differs from the Tèrra-Aventura route in how it is used: “Oh la belle prise!” focuses on puzzles, the app, duration and route length, while the Voie Verte is about non-motorised travel. These are different ways to shape your stay around the activities you prefer.

Railway heritage and producers’ market

Moncoutant station was built during the construction of the railway, along with other buildings needed to operate steam locomotives. Historically, the railway line ran for 4,720.50 metres through the commune of Moncoutant. The local railway story therefore includes both the infrastructure for steam operations and the route of the line through the commune.

The producers’ market is held year-round in Moncoutant’s church square. Details may change; check the latest market information before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Le Bourdet, Paizay-Le-Chapt, Saint-Coutant, Pouffonds, Nueil-Les-Aubiers, Brion-Près-Thouet, Champdeniers-Saint-Denis, Pioussay

For the main travel overview: Deux-Sèvres.