Grues: Trails, Water and History in the Marais Poitevin

Grues lies in the heart of the Marais Poitevin. The Lay forms one of the village’s waterways. You can explore the landscape on foot or by bicycle; water activities and historic sites are also among the local highlights. There are several ways to plan your trip: seasonal wildlife watching, fishing or boat trips, and a look at the area’s architecture and art.

Hiking and nature in the Marais Poitevin

The area around Grues has places to hike along the dikes and in the Lay’s flood-expansion areas. Depending on the season, you can observe animals and plants typical of the Marais Poitevin along the hiking trails. The season is therefore a useful consideration when planning if you are interested in nature: what you may see varies by season. Exploring the area on foot or by bicycle offers different ways to get around. You can choose how to travel according to your plans, while wildlife watching offers its own seasonal focus.

Waterways and activities

The waterways near Grues are used for fishing. Walleye, pike, carp and eels are found there and can be caught by anglers. Visitors to the Marais Poitevin can also take boat trips and go canoeing near Grues. The distinction is clear when choosing an activity: fishing is the focus on the waterways, while boat and canoe trips let you travel on the water. Both fishing and trips by boat or canoe are therefore practical options to consider when planning a stay in the landscape.

Churches and the priory: historic landmarks

An early historic landmark is the Prieuré de Grues, mentioned in a text dating from before 1306. When it was founded, it was dependent on the Abbaye de Saint-Michel-en-l'Herm. An earlier Église Saint-Nicolas, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, was set on fire on January 7, 1569, during the passage of the Huguenots. The Église Saint-Nicolas from the late 19th century was designed by architect Victor Clair. These dates place different parts of the village’s history in context: the priory’s early mention, the event of 1569 and the later church design.

Gallery studio and painting classes

The Galerie-Atelier Jean-Louis Renaudin displays paintings and unique objects made from wood or pebbles collected on beaches. Its collection thus combines painting with works made from found materials. Jean-Louis Renaudin offers acrylic painting classes there for all levels, including beginners and children aged six and up. Art lovers can enjoy both the exhibited works and the classes on offer. Availability may need to be confirmed in advance, so it is best to check before including a class in your travel plans.

Markets and local produce

Markets in Grues offer Vendée specialties, particularly those of the Marais Poitevin. The wider area’s culinary profile also includes local produce and products from short supply chains. The selection at any given market and the participating vendors may vary by date. If you are planning a market visit, check what will be available on the day you intend to go.

Discover more destinations: Les Landes-Genusson, Le Perrier, Foussais-Payré, Saint-Avaugourd-des-Landes, Le Fenouiller, Saint-Michel-Mont-Mercure, La Caillère-Saint-Hilaire, Sainte-Foy.

For the broader travel guide: Vendée.