Sèvre

Sèvre is a river in western France. It is formed by the confluence of two smaller rivers, the Sèvre Nantaise and the Sèvre Niortaise, near the town of Niort. The Sèvre Nantaise flows through the Vendée and Loire-Atlantique departments, while the Sèvre Niortaise flows through the Deux-Sèvres and Vendée departments.

The Sèvre Nantaise is approximately 146 kilometers (91 miles) long. It passes through several towns, including Cholet and Vertou, before joining the Loire River near Nantes. The Sèvre Niortaise is about 158 kilometers (98 miles) long. It flows through towns such as Niort and Saint-Maixent-l'École before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at the Pertuis Breton.

Historically, the Sèvre rivers have played a role in transportation and industry, particularly in the development of textiles and paper manufacturing in the regions they traverse. Both rivers are now important for their ecological value and recreational activities. They support diverse aquatic life and provide scenic landscapes for kayaking, fishing, and hiking along their banks. The Sèvre Niortaise, in particular, is known for its clear waters and the biodiversity of its riverbanks. The area around the confluence and along the rivers is part of agricultural landscapes and natural reserves, contributing to the regional environment.