Guide to Deux-Sevres & Property in Department 79

Deux-Sèvres is a department in the western part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, which was created as one of the 83 original départements during the French Revolution in March 1790. The department is named after the two rivers that run through it, namely the Sèvre Nantaise and the Sèvre Niortaise. It is a peaceful rural area with a mild year-round climate, making it an ideal place for agriculture and other outdoor activities. Deux-Sèvres is renowned for its stunning landscapes and distinctive attractions, particularly the "Marais Poitevin," also known as the "Green Venice." This stunning natural park is a network of canals and broads, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers. The department is primarily rural, with three-quarters of its area consisting of arable land. The main products grown include wheat, oats, potatoes, apples, and walnuts. Niort is the centre of vegetable and angelica production, while some beetroot is grown in the Melle district.

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Agriculture and Local Produce

Cattle, mules, and horse breeding are also common in the region. The Parthenais cattle breed is named for the town of Parthenay, located north of the department. The area also produces notable quantities of dairy products, including butter from Échiré and goat cheese. The department is famous for its cuisine, featuring many local producers and restaurants that serve delicious dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Transportation Links

Deux-Sèvres (department number 79) has excellent transportation links, making it easy to travel to and from the department. It has two railway stations on the TGV route between Paris and La Rochelle (Niort and Saint-Maixent), with a journey from Niort to Paris taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Several TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine regional railway routes, including a route from Poitiers via Niort to La Rochelle, a route from Niort to Saintes, and a route from Tours to Thouars and Bressuire, also serve it.

Airport Accessibility

Although there are no airports with scheduled airline services within the department, Niort-Souche Airport handles private flights. The closest commercial airports are Poitiers (Poitiers-Biard Airport), La Rochelle (La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport), and Nantes (Nantes Atlantique Airport). Thanks to its stunning landscapes, rich history, and excellent transportation connections, Deux-Sevres is a perfect destination for both tourists and residents.

Key Information about the Deux-Sèvres (79)

Main City/Prefecture: Niort
Nearest Airport: Poitiers-Biard Airport
Population: Around 374,000 (as of the latest census)
Area: 5,999 sq. kilometres and 2,316 sq. miles
Landmark: Marais Poitevin (Green Venice), a serene network of canals perfect for boating.
Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1.5 million, drawn by its peaceful landscapes and charming towns.

Property Prices in Deux‑Sèvres in 2026

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,568 (April 2026)
Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €2,301 (April 2026)
Price trends: +1% over the last 12 months, +21% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)