Discover Noirmoutier Island, the Pearl of Vendée

Looking to escape to a charming island? By staying at Les Brisants, you’ll enjoy easy access to Noirmoutier Island, nicknamed the “Island of Mimosas” thanks to its 40 km of beaches and salt marshes. The island earned its nickname due to its mild climate, which allows mimosas to bloom even in winter.

Located about an hour’s drive from the hotel, Noirmoutier is the perfect destination to complement your stay in Vendée. Its unique charm lies in a blend of history, preserved landscapes, and a wide range of activities. As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel like you're already on vacation! Whether you're visiting for a day or a longer stay, Noirmoutier offers countless experiences for families, couples, or friends.

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Getting to Noirmoutier Island

From Brétignolles-sur-Mer, there are two ways to reach the island: you can follow the Vendée coastline toward Fromentine, the starting point of the Noirmoutier bridge. Access to the island is especially easy thanks to this bridge connecting it to the mainland. Alternatively, you can take the famous Passage du Gois, a unique 4 km-long submersible road in the Bay of Bourgneuf that appears only at low tide. If you choose this unusual route, be sure to check the tide schedule to enjoy this unique experience safely.

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Villages to Explore

Noirmoutier Island is home to several picturesque villages, each with its own character. Taking the time to explore these villages, their markets, and their harbors is a must to soak in the local atmosphere.

• Noirmoutier-en-l’Île: The historic heart of the island, with cobbled streets, the 12th-century Noirmoutier Castle, and the Jacobsen Hotel, now a heritage center.
• Le Vieil: A charming fishing village with whitewashed houses, perfect for a stroll.
• Barbâtre: Known for its fine sandy beaches and family-friendly campsites.
• La Guérinière: Famous for its windmills and polders, ideal for nature observation.
• L’Épine: An authentic village surrounded by salt marshes, offering beautiful hiking trails.
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Exploring Noirmoutier by Bike

One of the best ways to discover Noirmoutier is by bike. The island features over 80 km of cycling paths connecting the villages, crossing salt marshes and forests like the Bois de la Chaise, located at the island’s tip. This forest stands out for its Mediterranean vegetation, hidden coves, fine sandy beaches, iconic white beach cabins, and its pier. Bike rides are suitable for the whole family and allow you to explore the island at your own pace while enjoying stunning scenery. Cycling is also a very popular mode of transport on the island.
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Iconic Beaches and Nature Walks

Noirmoutier’s fine sandy beaches are renowned for their beauty and authenticity.

• Plage des Dames: Famous for its row of white beach cabins and Belle Époque charm.
• Plage des Sableaux: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with the family.
• Plage de Barbâtre: Long, wild beaches ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.

Nature lovers will enjoy the Sébastopol Polder Nature Reserve, offering magical walks and opportunities to spot migratory birds. Don’t miss the unforgettable sunsets along the coast!
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Salt Marshes and Heritage

A guided tour of a salt marsh is a must-do activity for all ages. Salt and fleur de sel harvesting is an integral part of Noirmoutier’s heritage. During the tour, you’ll meet a salt worker, learn how this famous seasoning is made, and even take home a tasty souvenir. This activity offers insight into a centuries-old tradition.
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History and Culture

Beyond the Noirmoutier Castle Museum, which traces the island’s history from the Middle Ages to today, several other sites are worth visiting:

• Port de l’Herbaudière: A lively fishing and leisure port, perfect for enjoying a seafood platter.
• Jacobsen Hotel: Located on Place d’Armes, it showcases maritime and architectural heritage.
• The windmills of La Guérinière and the Bois des Eloux: Great for nature walks.

Unique Experiences

For a family outing, the Butterfly Island is a magical place where hundreds of butterflies fly freely in a large tropical greenhouse.

You can also try a more traditional activity: shore fishing. At low tide, you can find crabs, clams, and cockles—fun for both kids and adults.
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Gastronomy and Local Markets

A trip to Noirmoutier wouldn’t be complete without tasting its local flavors. You’ll find the famous Noirmoutier potato, known as the “bonnotte,” grown in small quantities and highly prized. Local markets also offer delicious fish, oysters, shellfish, and regional products.

Restaurants on the island highlight these ingredients in dishes that blend tradition and creativity. For an authentic experience, stop by an oyster shack and enjoy oysters with your feet in the water.
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How Much Time to Visit Noirmoutier?

You can discover the island’s highlights in a single day from Brétignolles-sur-Mer. As a human-scale island, it’s easy to explore the main attractions without rushing. A long weekend is ideal to combine beach relaxation, bike rides, and cultural discoveries.
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Conclusion

From Hôtellerie Les Brisants, a getaway to Noirmoutier is the perfect way to extend your Vendée vacation and enjoy a memorable experience filled with sea, nature, and gastronomy.

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