Top 10 ways to visit the Vendée and enjoy activities

10 great ways to discover Les Sables d'Olonne
10 ideas to brighten up your vacation! Here are our best addresses for savoring the local cuisine, along with a list of activities to make the most of your immersion in the region. The Vendée is a beautiful region, with a wealth of natural resources for your stay. Not to mention a fabulous heritage and a history that will leave you spellbound. Just follow the guide!

Climb to the Ribandeaux viewpoint
Fancy a walk with a pretty view at the end? Climb up to the belvedere at Les Ribandeaux, in the commune of Talmont Saint-Hilaire. The path is fairly well hidden, but with a little perseverance, you'll get there. The lookout offers a beautiful panorama of the beaches, the castle and the church of Saint-Hilaire.
Jurassic Beach
A little paleontology for the whole family! Did you know that Plage de la République is home to an exceptional site containing over 2,000 dinosaur footprints? Some ten species of these friendly creatures trampled this spot 200 million years ago. Some of the 50 cm high footprints are the work of 3 m tall carnivores. Your kids will love it. The Club offers regular tours of this site, in partnership with a local association that accompanies you in the discovery of this sensitive and preserved historical site.

With Le Kiosque: experience the Vendée!
At Les Jardins de l'Atlantique, our teams will share with you the best addresses and activities to discover in the Vendée. On Pace: Ticketing, weekly programs, excursions, exclusive tours... Adeline, our tour guide, will take you in small groups (6 to 8 people) to explore the Vendée!
Hike along the coast
The Chemin des Douaniers is available in 3 routes: green, yellow and blue. In other words, it's accessible to all. With its alternating coastal and forest paths, it offers a breathtaking view of the ocean. From discovery to discovery, it takes you to the Aquarium de Vendée, an enchanting space for discovering the wonders of the marine world.
Would you like another drink?
The Bourgenay art glassworks are open to the public, allowing visitors to watch the artists at work. In 200 m2 of exhibition space, witness the magic of glass taking shape before your very eyes. It's a fascinating spectacle, and one you'll never tire of.

Take a walk in the woods
Come and recharge your batteries in the Veillon woods. Walk around the dune, from the sand to the undergrowth. The forest is home to many maritime pines, but above all to numerous holm oaks and an ancient oratory. Some are huge and centuries old. A must: through their branches, you can see the Château de Veillon.

Back to the Middle Ages
Imagine spending an hour in the 12th century, following in the footsteps of Richard the Lionheart. It's possible, with this escape game set in the underground passageways of Talmont castle. Experience the thrill of finding the mysterious relic coveted by Eleanor of Aquitaine. If you succeed...

Surf the wave
Since 2017, Les Sables d'Olonne has been one of 11 towns to have been awarded the “ville de surf” label. In other words, this sport is an institution in the region. Why not take the opportunity to get started? Numerous clubs offer courses for children aged six and over. Come and challenge the waves, and maybe make an old teenage dream come true. The Veillon beach in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire is a popular surfing spot, with waves to suit all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers. The well-maintained and supervised beach attracts many surf enthusiasts all year round.

Treasure fishing!
For a fun and educational experience, equip your children with boots and landing nets, and head out at low tide onto the Paracou beach. Shellfish, crustaceans, spider crabs, étrilles... In Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, fishing on foot is a real invitation to reconnect with the sea, a moment of calm in which to explore the ocean's treasures. On the wild beaches and shores of the estuary, each tide reveals a unique spectacle, offering anglers an unforgettable experience in harmony with nature.
Discover the Marais Poitevin
In Saint-Benoît-sur-Mer, the Maison de la Nature de La Grenouillère aims to showcase the natural wealth of the Marais Poitevin. You'll find everything you need for a richly instructive day out with the family:
- 4 immersive rooms to discover biodiversity
- interactive games
- canoe trips