Nature in Neuvy-Bouin includes the municipal pond, granite formations in the Bois de l'Ermite and near La Garrelière, and the GAÏA natural area. The sources of the Sèvre Nantaise are also part of the municipality’s geographical setting. When planning a trip, it is worth considering the different attractions: a picnic by the water, geological features and a walking trail offer different ways to enjoy your stay. Access is also an important consideration at the spring near the hamlet of Les Gâts: it is on private property and is not accessible to visitors.
By the municipal pond
The municipal pond is a good spot for a picnic or simply to spend some pleasant time by the water. There is a shelter for rainy days, and the grounds also have a play area. You can plan an outdoor meal and a break by the water here. The shelter is a practical option when it rains, and the play area adds to the pond’s amenities.
Granite landscape and distinctive formations
The Bois de l'Ermite consists of a cluster of egg-shaped granite boulders in a valley through which a tributary of the Mare aux Canes stream flows. The site has a rocking stone and numerous small features on the upper surfaces and sides of some of the granite boulders, including weathering pits and channels. Two scales come together here: the striking shape of the boulders and the finer features on individual surfaces.
The granite boulders at La Garrelière in Neuvy-Bouin are part of the granite chaos of the Gâtine poitevine. They are listed in France’s national inventory of geological heritage and are classified as natural monuments and sites for their geomorphological interest and their place in the agricultural landscape. The two locations therefore have different points of interest: at the Bois de l'Ermite, the focus is on individual features on the boulders; La Garrelière is also recognised for its geomorphological and landscape value.
The sources of the Sèvre Nantaise
The sources of the Sèvre Nantaise lie partly in Neuvy-Bouin and partly in Le Beugnon, on a ridge at an altitude of 215 metres. One of the two springs is near the hamlet of Les Gâts in Neuvy-Bouin. This spring is on private property and is not accessible to visitors. The location at Les Gâts is therefore of interest as a geographical reference point for the Sèvre Nantaise, but it is not an accessible visitor destination.
GAÏA: walking trail and biodiversity area
The Forêt de Gaïa is a ten-hectare site near the centre of Neuvy-Bouin and close to a greenway. A biodiversity area is being developed on the site. The GAÏA natural area has a five-kilometre walking trail. The area’s nature attractions therefore include both the development of the biodiversity area and a specific walking route.
When planning your visit, it is important to distinguish between these natural attractions: GAÏA has a five-kilometre walking trail, while the spring at Les Gâts is on private property and is not accessible to visitors. One offers a specific walking activity; the other is the geographical source of the Sèvre Nantaise.
Discover more destinations: Le Tallud, Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes, La Chapelle-Saint-Laurent, Azay-le-Brûlé, Bessines, Limalonges, Coulon, La Chapelle-Pouilloux.
For the broader travel overview: Deux-Sèvres.
