Vendée: discover the treasures of the Green Venice

Cover photo credit © CRTL Vendée Expansion / Alexandre LAMOUREUX

The Vendée, located on the Atlantic coast, offers 82.1 km of varied landscapes, from wild coastlines and picturesque marshes to peaceful rivers. A true jewel of France’s natural heritage, the region can be explored on foot, by bike, by boat, or even on horseback. Embark on a unique tour through Les Sables-d’Olonne, the Marais Poitevin, and the banks of the Yon River for a full immersion in the wild beauty the Vendée with Teritoria.

Les Sables-d’Olonne: a must-see seaside resort

When you think of a holiday in the Vendée, Les Sables-d’Olonne is likely the first place that comes to mind. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds, discover our alternative tour.

Heading for the Côte de Lumière

Located on the Côte de Lumière (Coast of Light), the town of Les Sables-d’Olonne is a major tourist destination in the Vendée region and the starting point of the famous Vendée Globe yacht race. With its mild climate and 105 km² of beaches and coastal paths, it’s an ideal destination for a holiday with family or friends.

To explore this town from a different perspective, follow the bay and discover a preserved natural site with steep cliffs and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities along the Vendée coastline, hiking, cycling, rollerblading, or horse riding.

Teritoria’s tip: visit the Île Penotte neighbourhood! Immerse yourself in the artistic world of this unique area, where house facades are adorned with intricate shell mosaics. A surprising and whimsical walk that might just take you back to your childhood.

The Marais Poitevin: a boat trip through unspoilt nature

Classified as a Grand Site de France, the Marais Poitevin is an aquatic labyrinth of pollarded ash trees and wet meadows. Hop aboard a traditional boat for a peaceful cruise through this region, nicknamed the “Green Venice.”

Don’t miss the Marais Poitevin: let yourself be guided by a boatman who will share the history and legends of the marshes. Observe the rich flora and fauna, herons, otters, dragonflies, and aquatic plants.

For history buffs and the curious, we recommend a stop at the Salines. Discover the history of salt in the Vendée, an ancestral craft still practised today. Join the salt harvest alongside the artisans who work the marshes, and leave with your own salt!

Hike Around the Yon: An Immersion in the Heart of Vendée’s Nature

Hiking enthusiasts in the Vendée will find everything they’re looking for along the Yon, a river that winds through forests, old mills, and rocky outcrops, offering countless opportunities to explore on foot.

Starting from the Sentier du Néflier trail at the Maison des Libellules in Chaillé-sous-les-Ormeaux, you can choose to head toward the Moulin de Rambourg, a restored historic mill open to the public or toward the Île de la Merlerie, a preserved green oasis where you can relax by the water at the end of your hike.

The Chaos du Piquet: a 4 km hike through streams, forests and historical ruins. Immerse yourself in the past of the Vendée region!

The Pointe du Payré: a 4.7 km trail between land and sea offers exceptional views of the ocean and wild dunes.

Whether you’re passionate about hiking, nature, or heritage, the Vendée is the ideal destination for a change of scenery. With its coastal landscapes, mysterious marshes, and peaceful rivers, it appeals to those who love nature and authenticity.

Find your ideal residence in the Vendée and enjoy a unique experience in the heart of nature with our website. Join our loyalty programme and enjoy exclusive benefits with every stay.

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By Emilie Fallot Nguyen