Are you searching for the perfect destination for your next family holiday? Look no further than Vendée. With its rich historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide array of family-friendly activities, Vendée offers something for every season and all ages. Here, we share 5 must-do activities in Vendée that will captivate both kids and adults alike.
Discover Dinosaur Footprints Along the Vendée Coast
For young history enthusiasts, the Vendée coastline between Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and Jard-sur-Mer is home to an extraordinary site designated as a National Geological Heritage site. This unique area is known as France’s oldest collection of dinosaur footprints, with over 2,000 prints dating back some 200 million years. During low tide, embark on a coastal walk to uncover these ancient traces. Encourage your little ones to guess which dinosaurs may have left them—it’s a fascinating exercise in imagination and prehistoric history. Remember, this site is protected, so only observation and photography are permitted. To round out the experience, visit Talmont Castle, a historic fortress from 1020, where young knights can explore one of France’s oldest stone castles.
Dive into Vendée’s Past at the Historial de la Vendée
For a captivating journey through time, head to the Historial de la Vendée, located in Lucs-sur-Boulogne. This museum, with its striking contemporary architecture, spans 7,000 years of history—from geology and prehistory to the medieval era and the Vendée Wars. Children will be thrilled to explore the interactive exhibits and take on a discovery trail focused on the secrets of the sea. Plan an hour or an afternoon to let young minds soak in the region’s rich history.
Climb the Mélusine Tower for a Magical Adventure
To add a touch of enchantment to your trip, visit the Mélusine Tower in Vouvant, South Vendée. According to legend, this medieval tower was built overnight by the fairy Mélusine. Ascend to the top for breathtaking 360° views of the Mervent forest, Pouzauges, and beyond. Afterward, wander through Vouvant, one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages” and a “Petite Cité de Caractère”. A self-guided walking route reveals the village’s historic landmarks, including the ancient ramparts, the Poterne gate, and the intriguing Cour des Miracles.
Stroll Through the Tropical Paradise of Île aux Papillons
Return to the coast and make your way to Noirmoutier Island, where you’ll find France’s largest butterfly house, a vibrant tropical greenhouse filled with fluttering color. Kids will be amazed by butterflies from across the globe, including species from French Guiana, Kenya, and Madagascar, all flying freely among lush tropical flora. Tropical flowers, exotic plants, and charming lorikeets add to the wonder of this unforgettable experience.
Marvel at Seashell Mosaics on Île Penotte
In the heart of Les Sables d’Olonne lies Île Penotte, a delightful pedestrian district known for its unique shell mosaics. The facades of the houses here are adorned with intricate designs created from multicolored seashells. These works of art are crafted by local artist Danièle Arnaud-Aubin and are inspired by mythology, fairy tales, and fantasy themes. After admiring these whimsical mosaics, head to the EcoZoo in Les Sables d’Olonne, where children can encounter over 500 exotic animals—from Kirk’s dik-diks and giraffes to Caribbean flamingos—in a lush, sustainable setting.
Vendée has so much to offer families looking for both adventure and relaxation. These suggestions are just the beginning; be sure to explore other local gems that make this region a top destination for unforgettable family travel.
