Discovering Vendée: 8 activities to do during your holiday
Are you looking to discover Vendée beyond the postcards? Don't be fooled into thinking that the Côte de Lumière is limited to its coastline, as beautiful as it may be! Between forests, marshes, and beaches, prepare yourself for an active holiday filled with emotion. L'Abri des Pins, our 4-star campsite in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, is the perfect base to easily explore our department in Western France. Follow our guide to organize your holiday and ensure you don't miss any of the best experiences in the Pays de la Loire!
Vendée's highlights at a glance
- Beaches near the campsite: Fine sand, gently sloping waters, and accessible water sports.
- Cycling paths in the state forest: Mountain bike trails between marshes and pine trees.
- Discover Noirmoutier Island: Cross the famous Passage du Gois at low tide.
- A getaway to Sallertaine: Artisan workshops and canoe trips through the salt marshes.
- Maritime stop in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie: A stroll along the scenic "Corniche Vendéenne."
- City vibes in Les Sables d’Olonne: Famous for its unique shell-art murals (fresques en coquillages).
- Local markets: Vendée specialties and traditional festivals throughout the summer.
1. Set sail for the beaches of Vendée
Why make it complicated when happiness is so close? Just a few steps from your accommodation, the Atlantic Ocean awaits. The fine sandy beaches of Saint-Jean-de-Monts, including La Davière beach, are perfect for children thanks to their gentle slope. It is also the dream spot to try sand yachting or simply run along the shoreline as the tide goes out.
Among the other Vendée beaches where we recommend laying down your towel are:
- The main beach (Grande Plage) of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
- Les Mouettes beach in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez.
- Plage des Dames on Noirmoutier Island.
2. Cycling through the forest
Do you prefer shade and movement to quiet days at the beach? The state forest directly borders our campsite. It is a green lung crisscrossed by kilometres of cycle paths. Hire your bike directly at L’Abri des Pins through our partner Loc & Go, and hop on a mountain bike to discover the natural side of Vendée.
- For seasoned cyclists: The loop starting from Biotopia towards Pey de la Blet covers 40 km. It requires good physical health, even though the elevation gain is not very high.
- For a forest and marsh mix: Opt for a ride around Saint-Jean-de-Monts. This easy 16.8 km circuit starts from Rue de la Garenne (5 km from the campsite) and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.
3. Noirmoutier Island and the Passage du Gois
The Passage du Gois is a 4-kilometre submersible road that connects the mainland to the island. Be careful, it is only revealed at low tide! Crossing this strange, lunar-like landscape by car or on foot is a memorable experience for anyone wanting to discover the must-see sights of Vendée.
Once on Noirmoutier Island, the atmosphere changes radically. The white houses with blue shutters are reminiscent of the south of France, while mimosas bloom even in winter.
Our tips for a successful crossing:
- Always check the tide times: crossing is possible only 1 hour 30 minutes before and after low tide.
- Drive slowly: the road is often slippery due to seaweed.
- Observe the foreshore: take advantage of low tide to watch the local shellfish gatherers at work.
4. Sallertaine: between craftsmen and marshes
Leave the Vendée coast behind and dive into the hinterland. Sallertaine, a former island now surrounded by land, is a certified "Ville et Métiers d’Art" (Town of Arts and Crafts). Take your time to stroll through the narrow streets and step inside the workshops! You will enjoy enriching encounters with glassblowers, potters, and leatherworkers.
However, one of the highlight activities for tourism in Vendée remains navigating the "étiers" (narrow marsh channels). Rent a canoe at La Route du Sel and glide through the reeds.
Our practical tip: Opt for a trip at the end of the day. The light over the marsh is magical then, and you might be lucky enough to spot an otter or a grey heron.
5. Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie: sardines and rocky cliffs
Head south! Just 21 km from our campsite, you will reach this authentic fishing port. Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is the sardine capital of France. It’s the perfect opportunity to visit the Atelier de la Sardine to discover this local maritime tradition. Foodies can even take home "vintage" tins as a souvenir of their Vendée holiday.
Before arriving at the port, you will notice the coastline changing. Sand gives way to rocks along the Corniche Vendéenne. It is an invigorating walk or bike ride. At high tide, the sea rushes into the natural arches with a roar, creating a truly striking spectacle.
6. Les Sables d'Olonne: a seaside and urban stopover
Fancy a more city-like atmosphere? The home of the Vendée Globe solo yacht race is located 53 km from your mobile home. Les Sables d'Olonne possesses an undeniable charm with its "Remblai" (the main promenade) lined with historic villas.
However, to discover the artistic side of Vendée, you must head away from the seafront. Make your way to the Île Penotte district. In these narrow pedestrian streets, the walls of the houses are decorated with murals made entirely of seashells. It is a meticulous and poetic work of art that charms both children and adults alike.
7. Local markets: a taste of the region
It’s impossible to spend a holiday in Vendée without tasting the local specialities. Among the markets to visit during your stay, we recommend:
- Challans markets (closed Sunday and Monday).
- Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie market (Wednesday and Saturday).
- Noirmoutier-en-l'Île market (Friday).
Don't know what to bring back? Fill your basket for a 100% local picnic before heading out to discover Vendée. Be sure to pick up some Préfou (garlic bread), Mogette (white beans), Vendée Brioche, and Noirmoutier salt.
8. Festivals that bring Vendée to life
Festivities change the face of Vendée! During your holiday, don't miss:
- La Déferlante d'Été: A travelling street arts festival (circus, theatre, music) that enlivens the seaside resorts along the Vendée coast. It takes place throughout July and August.
- Vendée Globe: The legendary solo, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world sailing race, starting and finishing in Les Sables-d'Olonne. It begins every four years in November.
- Autrefois Challans (Old-time Challans): A major historical and traditional reenactment of life in the early 20th century. It takes place over four Thursdays in July and August.
- Fête de la Bonnotte: A gourmet festival celebrating the harvest of the famous Noirmoutier Island potato. It generally takes place in early May (around Ascension Day).
Between the calm of the marshes, the power of the ocean, and the conviviality of the local markets, every day is a new adventure in this corner of Western France. All that’s left for you to do is book your cottage or your camping pitch. Our campsite with a water park in Vendée is waiting for you! Come and discover Vendée, then relax in our heated pools after your excursions.