Off the Beaten Path: Unique Experiences in the Vendée
Looking to get off the beaten path for your next holiday in the Vendée? This coastal department is full of unique places to discover, from the sea to the forest, from islands to surprising heritage sites. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here are some ideas to create unforgettable memories.
Nature and Breathtaking Landscapes
In the Vendée, the natural setting offers the perfect opportunity for a peaceful, unplugged holiday, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities. You can enjoy boat trips, canoeing, or paddleboarding along the Vendée’s waterways, such as:
- The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed the “Green Venice,” with departures often from Le Mazeau, Saint-Benoist-sur-Mer, or Maillezais
- Lake Jaunay, located near Landevieille
- The salt marshes of Olonne-sur-Mer
You can also make the most of hiking or cycling, with 1,800 km of cycle paths that allow you to explore every corner of the Vendée safely.
Sleep Differently: Unusual Accommodation in the Vendée
For travellers seeking adventure or a complete change of scenery, where you stay plays a key role—and you’re in luck! You’ll find all sorts of unique places to stay in the Vendée, from transparent bubbles to stilted lodges and treehouses. Often nestled along the coast or deep in the countryside, these accommodations offer unforgettable experiences without compromising on comfort.
The charm often comes from the surroundings: whether it’s the forest or the sea, breakfast in the heart of nature is the perfect way to start your day. By staying at Les Brisants, you can enjoy breakfast on the terrace facing the sea or admire the ocean view straight from your bed.
Set Sail for the Vendée Islands
When it comes to unusual places that truly stand out, we can’t forget the Vendée’s islands, which add to the region’s charm.
Discover the island of Noirmoutier, located in the Bay of Biscay. This 48 km² low-lying island is a paradise for cycling and nature lovers. Accessible via the famous Passage du Gois (depending on the tide), Noirmoutier offers postcard-perfect landscapes with its beaches, charming local-style houses, and unspoiled natural beauty. You’ll be enchanted by its variety of scenery: sandy beaches, dunes, coves, nature reserves, salt marshes, and forests. The island is made up of four communes: Barbâtre, La Guérinière, L’Épine, and Noirmoutier-en-l’Île.
The island of Yeu, on the other hand, seduces visitors with its wild, preserved character and unique atmosphere. On its 23 km² of land, it holds a wealth of sites to discover. With a strong maritime heritage, the island boasts lighthouses, beacons, small ports, and more. Today, getting to the Île d’Yeu is easy, thanks to multiple transport options. These two islands are true Vendée gems—unique in France and well worth a visit.
Culture and Originality: Experiences to Enjoy
Want to learn more about history while having fun?
The Puy du Fou theme park, located just 1 hour and 20 minutes from our hotel, offers spectacular, immersive historical shows featuring acrobatics, special effects, and majestic animals. The moment you step into Puy du Fou, you are transported to another era. Every detail—from the sets to the actors’ costumes—is designed to faithfully recreate different historical periods. This Vendée park offers a journey through time, where every corner tells a story and every show brings a chapter of the past to life. Wander through medieval villages, Roman cities, and even Viking camps, all meticulously reconstructed to impress.
But the Vendée also offers countless activities and charming towns steeped in history, such as Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie or Les Sables-d’Olonne. Whether by the sea or inland, each destination offers its own pleasures—markets, walks, local cuisine, and the warm, authentic Vendée atmosphere.
In Conclusion…
The entire Vendée is brimming with experiences to enjoy and places to see. Staying at Les Brisants gives you a magical setting while keeping you close to the region’s most enchanting sights. If you’d like to learn more about the activities and must-visit spots during your stay, feel free to explore the other articles on our hotel’s website.
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