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Long before the discovery of electricity and the associated inventions, our ancestors discovered the possibility of harnessing the power of the elements—which, while useful on the one hand, could also be a threat as a force of nature—for various purposes. A fitting example of the human inventiveness of earlier generations is such a mill: The heavy millstones used to grind grain or press oil, for example, could be powered by water or—as in this case—the wind. Hardly any of them still fulfill their original functions today, but fortunately, some have at least survived as testimonies to ancient times.

The Jean Guilloux chain ferry allows you to cross the Sèvre Niortaise River from Saint Jean de Liversay (Charente-Maritime) to Vix (Vendée). It is free to access and is operated manually. The chain ferry can be used independently by pedestrians and cycle tourists, with a maximum of 6 people per crossing. Cyclists' bicycles may be taken on board the ferry. Operating and safety regulations are posted on each bank. This type of boat was once a common means of crossing canals and channels in the Marais Poitevin. Free access is limited to 6 people or a maximum weight of 450 kg. Pets are allowed. Accessibility dates are from April 5 to October 31, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The acquisition of the "Jean Guilloux" chain ferry was made possible thanks in part to the support of the European Union.

To cross here, take a bike ride or walk. Grab the chain and pull, this way you will be on the opposite bank.

10th century abbey on what was once an island in the Gulf of Pictons. https://nossites.vendee.fr/abbaye-de-maillezais/histoire-de-labbaye/labbaye-millenaire

The Bazoin lock is located on the Pomère Canal. It's a nice place to take a break and watch the boats.

An abbey church, converted into a cathedral and an episcopal seat in 1317, was erected on this promontory from a monastery founded in 976. Before the drying of the Marais Poitevin, this mound was an island that one can imagine looking a little like at Mont-Saint-Michel. At its peak, the abbey shined throughout Poitou. Rabelais lived there like this for several years. The building suffered numerous destructions during wars and conflicts, it was even used as a quarry for building material after the Revolution. The remains which were able to be saved remain among the most remarkable in the Vendée department. It was estimated that the cathedral could be 105 meters long, 33 meters wide and stood at 60 meters high. Currently the ruins are only 25 meters high.

Crossing the canal with a chain boat! Top ! The camping bar Ô p'tit marais top also, good zik!

Here you can / must be your own ferryman to cross the Sèvre Niortaise. However, it takes some time to study the instructions for using the boat, to be able to handle the chain, and - for the first time - to have self-confidence. On the west side is a campsite, at the counter you can reward yourself before or after the crossing with a café.