Vendée, in a few words 〰
Rich in history with its numerous historical sites and in landscapes with its islands, forests and marshes, the Vendée is an ideal destination for family vacations. In addition to enjoying a lot of sunshine, it allows you to mix leisure and culture. Here is our travel guide with our advice to help you organize your trip.
ONE MUST DO
Spend a day at the Puy du Fou in the South Vendée, twice elected best leisure park in the world.
A TYPICAL DRINK
The troussepinette ! This sweet-tasting aperitif is made by macerating black thorns with alcohol and wine.
TYPICAL DISHES
If the Vendée is often cited for its beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, it is also renowned for its terroir and its traditional gastronomy that shape its identity. Like the gâche or the bonnotte. Here are 9 culinary specialties to try in Vendée.
2H30
by train from Paris to Nantes. You can then take a train to Montaigu, La Roche-sur-Yon, Les Sables d’Olonne. Or a bus to Noirmoutier.
Vendée Globe
is the name of the biggest single-handed, non-stop, non-assisted round-the-world sailing race that starts in Les Sables d’Olonne every four years.
679 991
is the number of inhabitants in the Vendée in 2021.
Where is the Vendée located?
The Vendée is located in the region of Pays de la Loire, in the West of France. It is a department with many facets. During summer, you can go to the Vendée coast to enjoy the beaches, the coastal paths, the water activities and the islands: Noirmoutier and Yeu. In the hinterland, you can discover the villages and the countryside, by car, by bike on the 1000 kilometers of cycle tracks, or on foot. It is the opportunity to discover the Marais Poitevin in Fontenay-le-Comte, the abbeys, the forest of Vouvant-Mervent, passing by the estuary of Payré.
How to go to Vendée ?
The Vendée is easily accessible by train. The main train stations are La Roche-sur-Yon and Les Sables d’Olonne (1h20 for a trip from Nantes to Les Sables d’Olonne). The island of Noirmoutier can be reached by bus from Nantes station. But also by car or by bike, via the numerous cycle tracks which mark out the department. The nearest airport is Nantes Atlantique.
When to go to Vendée ?
In Vendée, the climate is oceanic. Temperatures become ideal for organizing escapades from April to October. The mid-season is also a good option to (re)discover some destinations with a different light and colors.
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Find inspiration in our suggestions.
