Why Vendée Is a Top Destination for Sea Lovers ?
Are you a sea lover? If so, Vendée is undoubtedly your dream destination! Stretching along a long coastline, Vendée offers countless stunning coastal landscapes to explore. From fine sandy beaches bordered by wild dunes, to coastal forests and traditional salt marshes, the natural treasures of Vendée are sure to enchant you. Whether you enjoy long walks, water sports, or are simply seeking relaxation, you’ll find endless activities in our seaside resorts.
Brétignolles-sur-Mer Beach: Natural Charm and Warmth
The delightful town of Brétignolles-sur-Mer is a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger tourist cities. Here, you'll find exceptional beaches such as La Normandelière, La Sauzaie, and La Parée—ideal for swimming and well-known surf spots for more experienced surfers. You can also take in the stunning landscapes, whether rocky or sandy, on unforgettable walks from sunrise to sunset. Staying at Les Brisants gives you direct access—just a two-minute walk—to the Marais Girard beach, a charming spot perfect for a refreshing swim in the afternoon or evening.
La Grande Plage, Les Sables-d’Olonne: Ideal for Families
The magnificent town of Les Sables-d’Olonne, world-famous as the host of the Vendée Globe—the only solo, non-stop sailing race around the world—is equally known for its vibrant tourism. Its charm lies in its beautiful beaches, with “La Grande Plage” being the most entertaining for all ages. From beach sailing and surfing to walking, cycling, or boating—or simply relaxing on the fine sand—this slice of paradise has something for everyone. Its versatility makes it a favorite for families and places Les Sables-d’Olonne as the most prominent seaside city in Vendée.
Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie : A Haven for Water Sports Enthusiasts
Only 15 minutes from our hotel, the seaside town of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie boasts two very different but equally magical beaches. On the Saint-Gilles side, La Grande Plage stretches over 3 kilometers and connects to the Pont Jaunay beach in Brétignolles-sur-Mer. This fine sandy beach is perfect for a sunny afternoon with a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. Enjoy a stroll along the promenade for a treat or try your hand at surfing! On the Croix-de-Vie side, Boisvinet Beach is less touristy but well worth a visit. It’s an ideal spot for discovering nautical activities like sailing—or for daring a 5-meter plunge! For younger visitors, there's even a sea-water swimming pool.
Noirmoutier and L’Île d’Yeu
These multi-faceted islands are jewels of the Vendée and definitely worth a visit. Noirmoutier is accessible via the famous Passage du Gois (watch out for the tides!). You can also take a ferry to L’Île d’Yeu from the Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie pier, with a one-hour crossing per way. Both of these Vendée treasures are bursting with wonders to explore. Noirmoutier’s soft sandy beaches—like 'Les Dames' or 'La Guérinière' — are perfect for relaxing and easy to reach. On L’Île d’Yeu, you’ll find idyllic coves such as 'Belle-Maison' and 'Les Vieilles Beach' (with easy access). The two islands also feature ancient natural and historical sites—ideal for visitors curious about Vendée’s rich cultural heritage. If you're looking for a more active visit, you can even tour L’Île d’Yeu on foot or by bike while enjoying breathtaking views!
Conclusion: Discover Vendée from Les Brisants – A Unique Experience
By staying in Brétignolles-sur-Mer, you gain privileged access to a rich and diverse coastline. Our hotel, Les Brisants, welcomes you year-round to fully enjoy this exceptional region. However, to help preserve the beauty of our coastline, we ask visitors to be mindful of access restrictions in certain areas.
As for your four-legged friends, note that they are usually not allowed on many popular beaches between 10 AM and 8 PM. However, beaches like Pont Jaunay and Petit Pont in Brétignolles, Les Granges Beach in Brem-sur-Mer, and the designated dog zones in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez are pet-friendly. To ensure you're respecting protected areas, we recommend checking the websites of the towns you visit or referring to local beach maps.
We sincerely hope to help make your stay in Vendée as unforgettable and magical as our beloved region.
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