Water sports and activities
One of the main attractions of the Vendée coast is the wide variety of water sports on offer. Vendée’s beaches, exposed to wind and waves, offer ideal conditions for surfing, windsurfing, kite-surfing and stand-up paddling. Renowned resorts such as Les Sables d’Olonne, La Tranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-de-Monts are must-see spots for water sports enthusiasts. The region’s surfing and sailing schools offer courses to suit all levels, from beginners to the most experienced. The Atlantic Ocean also offers the chance to discover more leisurely activities, such as sea kayaking or fishing on foot, ideal for exploring the surrounding beaches and islands.
Discovering the Vendée islands
The Vendée coast is also the ideal starting point for exploring the islands of Noirmoutier, Yeu and Ré, which are accessible by boat. These islands, with their unspoilt landscapes and authentic atmosphere, are a true paradise for nature lovers. In Noirmoutier, you can discover the salt marshes and the Dames beach, renowned for its beauty. The island of Yeu, meanwhile, offers breathtaking panoramas, with its cliffs and wild coves. The island of Ré, one of the most popular, is ideal for cycling with its many cycle paths, as well as for discovering its charming villages, beaches and emblematic lighthouses.
Hiking and biking along the coast
The Vendée coast offers a network of cycle paths that allow you to discover all the beauty of the region. Whether along the beaches, through the pine forests, or on the paths that border the Poitevin marshes, the scenery is varied and magnificent. La Vélodyssée, a cycle route along the Atlantic coast, crosses the Vendée and offers superb ocean views. You can also explore the region’s historic towns and picturesque villages, such as Vouvant and Foussais-Payré. Hiking enthusiasts will love the coastal paths and forest walks, particularly in places like the Forêt de Mervent, an ideal natural setting for walks in the heart of the Vendée countryside.
Discovering flora and fauna
The Atlantic Ocean and the Vendée coast are an exceptional playground for lovers of flora and fauna. The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed the “Green Venice”, is a nature reserve where you can take boat trips and observe a wide variety of birds, fish and plants. It’s a listed site, ideal for birdwatchers and those wishing to immerse themselves in unspoilt nature. The Réserve Naturelle de Lilleau des Niges, on the Ile de Ré, is also an excellent place to observe local wildlife, especially migratory birds. The region’s beaches are also nesting grounds for certain species, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Family activities and relaxation
The Vendée coast is an ideal destination for families. In addition to water sports and hiking, there are numerous attractions for children and parents alike. Amusement parks such as Puy du Fou, ranked among the best in the world, offer grandiose shows and entertainment for young and old alike. Zoos, such as the Zoo des Sables d’Olonne, and aquariums are also perfect places for a family outing. For those who prefer to relax, the beaches of the Vendée coast are an ideal place to unwind. The seaside resorts offer numerous possibilities for relaxation, thalassotherapy and wellness treatments to enjoy the benefits of the ocean.
