Which beautiful villages can you discover around Les Sables-d’Olonne?

Would you like to explore the surroundings of Les Sables-d’Olonne during your holiday? The Vendée is full of charming villages, seaside towns and exceptional wine-growing areas. Here are a few ideas for lovely getaways to discover some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes.

Charming historic villages

Apremont

Among the must-see villages, Apremont stands out for its charm and authenticity. Located just a few kilometres from the Vendée coastline and the seaside resort of Brétignolles-sur-Mer, this small historic town offers rolling landscapes set in unspoilt nature, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Crossed by the river La Vie, Apremont is dominated by its iconic Renaissance château, which hosts events and shows during the summer season. For a family outing, the landscaped lake around the river offers water activities such as paddleboarding and canoeing, as well as marked walking paths for pleasant strolls.

Sallertaine

Situated in north-western Vendée, close to Noirmoutier, Sallertaine boasts remarkable architectural heritage. Its Saint-Martin Church, built in the 13th century, is a fine example of Angevin Romanesque art.
Just a short walk away, the Moulin de Rairé, still operating with its original mechanism, offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional 16th-century ingenuity. Nestled in the heart of the marshes, this village is perfect for discovering Vendée’s emblematic landscapes.

Pouzauges

Nestled in the heart of the Vendée countryside, Pouzauges is also classified as a Petite Cité de Caractère. Its rich heritage includes the 12th-century Saint-Jacques Church, the Romanesque Notre-Dame du Vieux Pouzauges Church with its medieval wall paintings, and the Château of Pouzauges.
To explore the town at your own pace, a walking route called Le Fil Vert guides visitors through its charming streets and historic landmarks.

Seaside villages in Vendée

Noirmoutier-en-Île

Between salt marshes and sandy beaches, Noirmoutier-en-Île is a must-visit destination. Its fully pedestrian town centre invites visitors to wander peacefully among local shops and art galleries.
To enjoy the sea air, the Jacobsen Pier, La Pointe des Dames lighthouse and the Sealand Aquarium are perfect for both adults and children. The quays are also an ideal spot for birdwatching in the Müllembourg Nature Reserve.

Port-Joinville

If you love island escapes, Port-Joinville is the perfect destination. Accessible by boat or helicopter, the Île d’Yeu is renowned for its preserved and wild character.
Port-Joinville, the island’s main village, captures its authentic spirit with colourful façades, local shops and a daily market, creating a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Our reception team can assist with ferry tickets to Île d’Yeu with a departure from Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie or Fromentine, from April to October.

Villages surrounded by exceptional vineyards

Brem-sur-Mer

If you are a wine lover, you will no doubt be tempted to visit one of Vendée’s five AOC wine-growing areas. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the famous Wine Route, an emblematic circuit of the Vendée region. The Brem-sur-Mer terroir, located just five minutes from Brétignolles-sur-Mer, produces fine and delicate wines, immediately recognisable for their maritime influence, with subtle saline notes reflecting the coastal environment in which the vines are grown.Beyond its vineyards, the village boasts a rich religious heritage, including the Saint-Nicolas Church, listed as a historic monument since 1956, as well as Saint-Martin Church, the parish church of the commune. Brem-sur-Mer also offers numerous walking and cycling paths winding through marshlands and vineyards. Located just a few kilometres from our establishment, our sommelier Jeremy invites you to discover two local wines from Domaine des Granges. You will find our full wine list in the “La Cave” section, featuring the wines served at the JM Perochon gastronomic restaurant.

_Chantonnay

The Chantonnay wine-growing area is another highlight of Vendée vineyards, producing generous, vibrant white wines and powerful, complex red wines grown on carboniferous fault soils.
Located near La Roche-sur-Yon, the village is home to the Château de Sigournais, the Priory of Grammont and Trizay Abbey. For nature lovers, the Bois de la Pigarnière offers lovely walks through bocage landscapes and beautiful views over the Angle-Guinard lake.

Mareuil

Renowned for its characterful red and rosé wines, the Mareuil terroir also produces white wines with delicate mineral notes. The village reveals itself through its narrow streets and along the River Lay, which flows through the town.
The Romanesque Saint-Sauveur Church and the old manor houses recall the village’s medieval past. Mareuil is an invitation to slow living, with riverside walks, hiking trails and cycling routes that allow you to fully enjoy the Vendée countryside.

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