Donkey Ride through the Marais Vernier

Nestled away from the bustling towns of Normandy, just inland from where the Seine river meets the Channel, lies the Marais Vernier, a peaceful haven of marshes. This stunning nature reserve feels like a hidden gem, offering tranquility and the perfect escape from everyday life. We had the pleasure of exploring it on a relaxing donkey ride with Antoine, a local gîte owner and guide. It didn’t take long before we were completely at one with nature, surrounded by the serene beauty of this protected landscape.

Antoine Crevon, known as Antoine the Gardener

Antoine has spent over 20 years sharing his love for nature with young people with disabilities through his “Culture et Nature” association. In the serene Marais Vernier, he takes visitors on donkey rides with Fripon, Félicie and Uguette, experiencing a slower pace and a real connection with the animals. With his passion for nature and storytelling, Antoine offers a unique journey through the marshes!

A world away

  As we make our way into the Marais Vernier, a pair of storks glide gracefully across the road, their wings cutting through the calm air. Surrounded by this tranquil nature, it’s as if our everyday concerns have vanished. We soon arrive at our home for the next two nights, the Gîte de l’Anerie, and it feels as though time itself has slowed down. Antoine and Céline, the warm-hearted owners, welcome us into their charming 18th-century half-timbered cottage, a true labour of love restored with eco-friendly, local materials. After a quick tour of the cozy space, we settle into our comfortable lodge, then enjoy an evening filled with the intriguing treasures they’ve gathered over the years. We savour a delicious meal prepared with fresh ingredients from their garden, all while Antoine and Céline share the colourful, captivating stories that bring their home and the region to life.

An exceptional wildlife and flora

 After a restful night’s sleep, the family gathers the next morning on the terrace of the gîte, thoughtfully designed for accessibility. With its panoramic view over the marshes, the scene before us feels like a vast natural amphitheater, lush greenery broken up by patches of reed beds and wetlands. This hidden stretch of land, once part of a meandering bend of the nearby River Seine, serves as a crucial migration route for a variety of birds. Gray herons, storks, ducks, ospreys, swans, peregrine falcons, and other birds of prey frequent this tranquil haven, adding a sense of wonder to the already stunning landscape.

Trusting Roman to guide the donkey

These stunning surroundings are enough to thrill anyone, but what excites our little boy Roman the most today is the chance to take a walk in the Marais Vernier with one of Antoine and Céline’s three friendly donkeys: Fripon, Félicie, and Uguette! When Antoine, our guide for the day, invites Roman to help prepare Fripon, brushing him down and putting on his reins—Roman’s eyes light up with excitement. His joy reaches new heights when it’s finally time to set off, and Antoine hands him the reins, making him the one in charge of leading Fripon!

Donkeys are naturally adaptable to all kinds of people, whether they are fragile, disabled, or, like Roman, have Down’s syndrome,” Antoine explains. “While horses may run off when faced with danger, donkeys have a different response—they stop and take the time to assess the situation.”

Supportive and attentive leadership

Antoine is warm and thoughtful, with over 30 years of experience in the social field. Through his association, Culture & Nature, he introduces young people to audio and video media. He has a calm, reassuring presence and often uses humor to put others at ease. His lighthearted approach brings laughter to everyone around him, making the experience feel welcoming and enjoyable.

Memories to last a lifetime

Roman beams with pride as he leads Fripon and the rest of us on our walk. Antoine soon invites him to climb onto Fripon’s back, and with a little help, Roman settles into the saddle. From his elevated perch, he gleefully observes the cows and sheep, the Camargue horses and Highland cattle, all part of the beautiful landscape. He excitedly points out vibrant vegetable patches peeking over the hedges, a distant castle perched on a hill, and walkers and cyclists leisurely exploring the marshes.

Our peaceful and scenic walk with the donkeys concludes with a refreshing glass of juice made from apples picked straight from Antoine and Céline’s orchard. As we prepare to say goodbye, Roman gives Fripon a gentle pat, thanking his trusty companion. It’s clear that this special day will stay with Roman for a long time.

Useful Information

A unique place

The Marais Vernier

The Marais Vernier is a 4,500-hectare nature reserve located in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine.