What to do in Vendée in spring? Our best ideas!

Vendée is a land of hedged farmland, forests, and marshes, where nature is omnipresent. Visiting Vendée in spring is the ideal season to appreciate this still-preserved territory. By the ocean, you will appreciate the return of warmth, at this time when the coastline so aptly bears its name of "Côte de Lumière". In the Marais Breton Vendéen, crossing the Heart of Vendée to the Haut Bocage, spring walks between land and sea await you. In the Marais Poitevin, in the south of Vendée, boat trips allow you to surprise the awakening of nature. We offer you an overview of activities to do in spring in Vendée.

Photos of the article © Vendée Guide

Cross the Vendée on foot from the coast to the Vendée countryside

The Vendée offers no less than 2,500 kilometers of trails, in the heart of a very rich and diverse natural environment.

Here is our selection of unmissable walks to discover the Vendée in spring in all its facets:

• On the North Vendée coastline, near the Marais Breton Vendéen, the Forest Trail allows you to explore the Pays de Monts national forest. This hiking trail, marked over 11 km, is located in the heart of a natural area, consisting mainly of maritime pines and plant species typical of the region. This is a good idea to see the first buds and learn more about the local flora.

• On the southern Vendée coast, we recommend hiking on the Île de la Dive. It's located in the Gulf of Pictons, more precisely in Saint-Michel-en-L'Herm. The Baie de l'Aiguillon is a natural site of great beauty. You'll admire a beautiful panorama formed by the Pointe de l'Aiguillon, the Pointe Saint-Clément, and the Île de Ré.

• The Valleys of the Heart of Vendée are a favorite destination for hikers and cycling enthusiasts. The "Sentier des vallons du Petit Lay" (Sentier of the Valleys of Petit Lay) is a circuit of approximately 10 km. You'll certainly appreciate this beautiful natural setting, enhanced by picturesque heritage.

• In the Haut Bocage Vendéen, the "Circuit du Haut Bocage" is a 23 km hike, between Saint-Aubin-des-Ormeaux and Saint-Martin-des-Tilleuls. It is reserved for good walkers, to tackle the distance and its elevation changes, but it is a beautiful discovery of the Sèvre Nantaise Valley!
• The Marais Poitevin Regional Natural Park is the "Green Venice of Vendée"! This unusual site has many surprises in store for you, especially in spring when the awakening of nature lends it so much charm. But it's also one of the largest natural parks in France. There's no doubt you'll find what you're looking for here, whether in terms of family activities or walks...

Cycling on the cycle paths of Vendée

Are you more of a cyclist? The Vendée is a relatively flat region that offers beautiful family bike rides. More athletic types can head to the Vendée bocages to find some beautiful hills. Whatever your level, nearly 200 km of cycle paths are available to satisfy all your desires.

• The Vélodyssée runs along the Vendée coastline. It is divided into several sections of varying lengths.
• The Isle of Yeu has focused on soft mobility and is the ideal place for cycling enthusiasts, whether for everyday travel or for rides. You can go around the entire island on 40 km of cycle paths.
• The beautiful island of Noirmoutier offers more than 80 km of cycle paths, including 20 km on trails reserved for this purpose.
• The canals of the Marais Breton Vendéen are generally lined with dirt roads and roads, very well maintained and accessible to bicycles. The landscapes are varied and the small heritage sites are very significant.
• To get to know the Hauts-Bocages Vendéens better, the Boucle du Bocage is one of the must-sees. Its 53 km , mainly on paved roads, are very easy to access, especially for families.

Discover exceptional places in Vendée in spring

On this famous "Côte de Lumières," how can we not mention the sunsets? Pointe du Payré is the ideal place to admire them. From Jard-sur-Mer, a 5 km walk allows you to fully enjoy them. Different viewpoints await you: the Payré Estuary, the channel and small canals on the banks of the Payré, or even Veillon Beach.

At the southern tip of the Vendée coast, Pointe d'Arçay is located at the tip of the La Faute-sur-Mer peninsula. It forms the mouth of the Lay River. This wetland is a popular birdwatching spot for nature lovers. Nearby, don't miss a visit to the Sèvre Niortaise Estuary and the Baie de L'Aiguillon Nature Reserve, as well as the Port du Pavé.

For this last suggestion, we're taking you to the heart of Vendée, following in the footsteps of the Fairy Mélusine. This builder is said to be behind the characterful town of Vouvant! There, you'll see the Mélusine Tower, the only remaining vestige of the Lusignan Castle. You can also stroll through the Mervent Forest. You'll surely appreciate the return of spring in this magical forest...

We hope that this spring stroll in the heart of Vendée has inspired you to put on your sneakers or hop on your bike to appreciate nature in all its beauty.

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