VISIT THE VENDÉE

If there is one destination where the beaches enchant young and old alike, it is Les Sables-d’Olonne. Overlooking a large expanse of fine sand where boats, bathers and walkers mingle, the vast beach runs along the city embankment. Not far from here is the sailing school. During your stay at the Château la Forêt campsite, you can indulge in the joys of water sports.

After having fun in the waves, treat yourself to a relaxing break as you stroll along the beach. In high season, numerous snack bars and bars invite you into a friendly atmosphere. When the sun goes down, take a walk on one of the 2 piers. As you approach the lighthouses, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the sea.

Les Sables-d’Olonne offers various activities to try out with family or friends. For a fun and enjoyable day, head to the Zoo des Sables. With its initiatives to promote the preservation of biodiversity, this ecozoo, differs from other animal parks, and is a truly unspoilt green space.

Are you a history and heritage lover? Discover the monuments located in La Chaume, the traditional district of Sables-d’Olonne. In the Arundel Tower, you can pay a visit to the Marine Museum. To admire some art exhibits, head for Fort Saint Nicolas.

After discovering the treasures of the seaside resort, take time to stroll past the fishing harbour. Along the quayside, you will discover the fish market on one side and a multitude of restaurants on the other. To finish off your stroll in Sables-d’Olonne in style, take a trip to the salt marshes.

Revel in moments of fun at one of France’s most popular theme parks:the Puy du Fou.

Discover this unique universe, with its historical shows, epic adventures, and thrills aplenty. With friends, as a couple, or as a family, enjoy a unique experience in this legendary park, voted “Best Park in the World” at the Thea Classic Award ceremony!

A true journey through time, your Puy du Fou adventure will transport you to a medieval city or to the arenas of the Coliseum. You’ll stroll through the narrow streets of an 18th-century village and visit a town from the year 1900. The fort from the year 1000 AD is sure to make an impression. Finally, nature lovers will enjoy the deer clearing, the floral valley, and the animal maze just as much.

The island of Noirmoutier is full of treasures, waiting to be discovered. During your stay at the Château la Forêt campsite, treat yourself to a getaway to this Vendée island. Upon your arrival on Noirmoutier, you will admire its château and its port. If you continue a little further, you will reach the Bois de la Chaise. Succumb to the charm of its famous traditional beach huts.

The island of Noirmoutier is also known for its local production of “Bonnotte”: a potato with a delicious flavour. Gourmets will know that the island’s fleur de sel goes perfectly with it! Top tip: visit a local producer. He will introduce you to the salt marshes, and reveal some of the secrets of salt production and the accompanying recipes.

For a trip across the oceans without leaving the island, head to the Butterfly Island. In this unique place, hundreds of butterflies flutter around freely in a large tropical greenhouse. A captivating array of colours and shapes to delight the whole family.

Reaching the island of Noirmoutier couldn’t be easier. From our campsite, you can visit the island by car, crossing the free bridge, or via the famous Passage du Gois. Be careful, this road can become submerged at high tide. Nevertheless, the area surrounding the passage du Gois on the island side is bursting with incredible flora and fauna. This is a chance to make your trip a moment of true escapism and wonder.

A little ocean pearl, Saint Gilles Croix de Vie is one of the most beautiful ports in the Vendée. Located just 25 minutes from the campsite, the city invites you to experience an unforgettable day. How about starting your walk by the gorgeous sandy beaches? The large beach, bordered by a magnificent band of dunes, invites you to laze around and enjoy yourself. In summer, head to the embankment and check out the row of typical beach cabins. To get a bird’s eye view of this sublime and photogenic scenery, head up to the headland.

After this little escapade, shall we head for the city? There are numerous bike trails and fully developed pedestrian paths available to use. There is nothing like taking your time to stroll through the streets of the seaside resort. Throughout the walk, you will pause to discover the local heritage. At the Perle des Dieux cannery, sardines and oysters will bring your taste buds to life. Be sure to take a tour of the Josephine Lighthouse. Legend has it that it brings good luck. After that, pay a visit to the “house of the writers of the sea”. This wonderful day comes to a close with a fun break at the Casino de Saint Gilles. Before heading back to our camping village, you should take time to marvel at the magnificent fireworks that the city puts on during the summer.

Fancy some outdoors fun? Head off to discover the Marais Poitevin!

Nature lovers and sports enthusiasts will be able to explore the Marais Poitevin Regional Nature Park by bike or on horseback, and stop off in picturesque villages such as Arçais or Coulon. Hiking fans won’t be disappointed: bridges, footbridges, waterways, forests… the Marais Poitevin has a wealth of amazing trails.

You can also enjoy this natural marshland by canoe-kayak or boat. A nautical tour where you can explore the hydraulic works and admire the surrounding flora and fauna. With a bit of luck, you may spot an otter or heron!

Stretching all the way to the Atlantic Ocean, the Marais Poitevin is a fantastic place to try out some water sports. And why not treat yourself to a hot air balloon ride? A truly unique way to appreciate this stunning landscape.

Brétignolles-sur-Mer is a seaside town where they know how to live the good life. The small square, the church, the marketplace, and the small shops make the town a haven of peace.

Bretignolles is famous for its 3 main beaches: the Parée, the Sauzaie, and the Normandelière. During your holiday in Saint-Julien-des-Landes, take full advantage of the free access and parking at these magnificent beaches. The more athletic will enjoy taking on the beautiful Corniche coastal route. You can make your way along it by bike, on the bike trails, or on foot using the walking paths. Throughout the walk, you will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sea.

You can’t talk about the beach without mentioning water sports. To indulge in the pleasure of water activities, check out the La Normandelière sailing school.
Those who like to take things easy will prefer Sauzaie, located along the Corniche. There are numerous picnic areas on hand to share in some social time while listening to the sound of the waves.

From the Château la Forêt campsite, you can reach this exceptional natural site in just 10 minutes!

With its beautiful fine sandy beaches, the Île d’Yeu welcomes you into a postcard setting. On its west coast, the steep cliffs and hidden coves are reminiscent of the cliffs of Brittany. Yet, it is indeed in the Vendée that this little natural gem is located. During your walk along the coastline, take advantage of the many beaches to enjoy a swim break.

Perched atop the rocky coastline, the Vieux Château towers over the island’s coastline. You can also pay a visit to this majestic building. You will discover city’s history, as well as a number of interesting stories. Before returning to the Château la Forêt campsite, let yourself be tempted by the tasty meals served in the island’s restaurants. You will get the chance to sample regional produce.

There is no bridge or road to take you to Île d’Yeu The only ways to get there are by sea or air. You can embark upon an unforgettable crossing at the port of Sables-d’Olonne, the port of Saint-Gilles or the port of Fromentine. The boat will dock at the port of Joinville. A delightful marina, which is sure to charm!

To get around the island, nothing beats a bike. By renting it locally, you can enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of this small 23 km² island.