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Deux-Sèvres

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About Deux-Sèvres

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.

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Best Hotels in Deux-Sèvres

  • Hotel Saint Martin Saint-Maixent-l'Ecole, Deux-Sèvres 13 rooms from CA$120

    Active Holiday  -  Parks like Marais Poitevin are close by; explore on foot, horseback, bike or boat, or book rounds of golf at the nearby course
    Country Escape  -  The hotel is located in a 100 acre wooded parkland, with Sèvre Niortaise River flowing at the bottom of the garden
    Romantic Break  -  Beautiful rooms, with elegant furnishings, smart furniture and lovely views of the garden and river flowing below
    Boutique  -  Rooms differ in size, and range in style from rustic chic exposed stone walls, to beautiful, elegant French decor
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    A charming hotel in the pretty town of Saint-Maixent set amid 100 acres of wooded park. Smart and spacious rooms feature a range of styles from opulent to rustic chic, with plenty of period touches and lovely garden views. A seasonal pool completes the picture. A delightful country hideaway. See More

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  • Maison la Porte Rouge Niort 5 rooms from CA$130

    Groups  -  The two upstairs studios are perfect for groups looking for a little more privacy and independence while staying in the B&B.
    Local exploring  -  Situated right in the heart of Niort, ideal for exploring the historic city on foot.
    Sights nearby  -  History buffs should check out The Donjon de Niort, a beautiful and fascinating medieval castle.
    Great walks  -  Take a day trip and go walking in the beautiful Poitevin marshes.
    Swimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    An excellent B&B in the picturesque riverside city of Niort. The stylish rooms are comfortable and spacious with modern interiors and cool pastel colour schemes. Browse the city's cultural sights or simply relax beside the outdoor pool. A great value option for Niort. See More

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  • Les Demeures de Valette Azay-le-Brûlé, Deux-Sèvres 6 rooms from CA$140

    Back to Nature  -  With over 250 bird species, discover varieties of flora and fauna at Marais Poitevin, less than a 20 minute drive away
    Boutique  -  Rustic finishings throughout the hotel — expect exposed wooden beams, wall panelling and traditional fire places
    Contemporary  -  Chic yet warm and welcoming rooms with modern furnishings, simple decor and views of the pool or the garden
    Families  -  Families are well catered for here, with playgrounds, an infinity pool, extensive grounds and cosy gites
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking

    A former hunting lodge in a tranquil rural setting with B&B rooms in the main house & spacious gites in the grounds. Interiors are contemporary, perfectly complemented by period features. There's a lovely infinity pool with a view and table d'hote dinners are available. Family friendly rural bliss. See More

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  • La Chamoiserie Niort 16 rooms from CA$143

    Sights nearby  -  Ideally situated in the centre of Niort. Visit Le Donjon de Niort
    Tennis  -  Tennis Courts nearby
    Air conditioningTennisGardenPet friendlyDisabled access

    A contemporary, re-furbished mansion that combines the refinement and elegance of a hotel with the warmth and cosy ambiance of a guesthouse. Guests can enjoy traditional breakfasts on the outdoor terrace and read a book in the garden shade. Traditional french townhouse. See More

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  • Alexandra Palace Hotel Mazières-en-Gâtine, Deux-Sèvres 25 rooms from CA$158

    Country Escape  -  surrounded by 160 acres of wooded parks, this historic chateau is made for rural breaks of long walks, fine food and wine
    Good wine list  -  The wine cellar holds a collection of a mind-boggling 100,000 bottles for guests to taste (some are very rare)
    Golf  -  Set next to an 18-hole golf course, Golf du Petit Chêne, this is the perfect destination for a golf break
    Foodies  -  Enjoy gourmet french cuisine at its best in the elegant Le Daniels restaurant
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A 17th-century castle which has been completely renovated, turning it into a five-star hotel. Elegant rooms and suites have plenty of period style but the feel is fresh and contemporary. There's a fine dining restaurant, an impressive wine cellar and expansive grounds. Ideal for a luxe rural escape. See More

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  • Chateau de Saint Loup sur Thouet Deux Sèvres Poitou, Deux-Sèvres 10 rooms from CA$168

    Writing a novel  -  The place which inspired Perrault's Puss in Boots- with orangery, kitchen garden, authentic rooms and moat
    Weddings  -  An amazing wedding venue
    Great walks  -  Take a guided tour of the Chateau's park and gardens
    Restaurant  -  Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    17th century chateau steeped in history and set in a glorious 50-hectare park. Elegant rooms, some feature four poster carved beds, wooden floors and fabulous garden views. "The Keep" will provide cosy adventure for families with a two bedroom suite evoking the atmosphere of the era. True escapism! See More

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